Tampa Airport vs. Clearwater Airport: What You Need to Know

When planning a trip to Tampa, Florida, travelers have a few airports to choose from. Tampa International Airport (TPA), St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), and Sarasota—Bradenton International Airport are the three main options. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to understand the differences between them before booking a flight.

TPA is the main port from which domestic and international flights depart. It is also the closest airport to Busch Gardens Tampa, one of the city's top tourist attractions. The cost of transportation from the city center to the airport is low, making it a great option for travelers on a budget. PIE is 35 km from the city and is an international airport that serves Tampa.

It is the closest and fastest for passenger transfers, but it also has more passengers than the other two airports, which can lead to long queues and flight delays. Sarasota—Bradenton International Airport is located further away from Tampa than the other two airports, but it may be the best option for travelers departing from certain destinations. Other nearby airports include Tampa (TPA) (28.98 miles), Sarasota Bradenton Intl (SRQ) (43.52 miles), Punta Gorda Charlotte County (PGD) (89.24 miles) or Orlando (MCO) (97.65 miles).When deciding which airport to fly to in Tampa, travelers should consider their destination, the cost of flights, and the convenience of transportation from the airport to their final destination. By understanding all of these factors, travelers can make an informed decision when booking their next trip.