Tampa International Airport

For your convenience, we have gathered the main contact information for Tampa International Airport (TPA). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data before your trip.

• Official Website: www.tampaairport.com — here you will find the latest information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (813) 870-8700. You can obtain general information about airport operations at this number.
• Airport Address: 4100 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33607, USA.
• Email: For most enquiries, it is recommended to use the dedicated contact form on the official airport website.
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains pages on popular social networks such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram, where news and updates are published.
• Lost and Found Information: If your belongings were lost within the airport building, please contact the Lost and Found bureau at +1 (813) 571-7853. If the issue concerns luggage checked in for a flight, you should contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and consultations, you can contact the main information desk phone or use the feedback form on the website.

You can get to Tampa International Airport (TPA) from the city centre of Tampa and its surroundings in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and preferences. The airport is conveniently located and has good transport links. The most budget-friendly option is public transport. The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit (HART) bus system operates route No. 30, which directly connects the city centre with the airport. The trip will cost just a couple of dollars but will take about 40-50 minutes.

For those who value comfort and speed, the optimal choice would be taxis or ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft. A trip from the central district of Tampa to the airport usually takes 15-25 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Taxi fares may be fixed for certain zones, while ride-sharing prices vary but average between 25-35 dollars. This is an excellent option if you are travelling with luggage or a small group.

If you plan to move actively around Florida and explore not only Tampa but also neighbouring cities, car rental will be the most convenient solution. Tampa Airport features a modern Rental Car Center, which can be reached from the main terminal in a few minutes via the free automated SkyConnect train. All major rental companies are represented here, making it easy to pick up and drop off a car right at the airport. This provides maximum freedom of movement throughout this region of the USA.

Travellers arriving by private car can use the airport's numerous parking facilities. There are options for every taste and budget: from Short Term Garage parking right at the terminals to the more affordable Long Term Garage and the most economical Economy Garage, from which free shuttles run to the terminals. It is recommended to check availability and rates in advance on the official airport website, as you can sometimes get a discount when booking online.

Tampa International Airport (TPA) is known for its unique and highly passenger-friendly structure, which was pioneering at the time of construction and is still considered one of the most efficient in the USA. The airport consists of one main Landside Terminal and four separate satellite terminals (Airsides) located around it. This "hub-and-spoke" scheme minimises walking distances and simplifies navigation.

The main Landside Terminal is the central hub where all ground services are concentrated. It has three main levels:

• Level 1 (Baggage Claim): The arrival zone where passengers collect luggage. Car rental counters and exits to city transport are also located here.
• Level 2 (Ticketing): The departure zone where airline check-in counters and baggage drop-off points are located.
• Level 3 (Transfer Level): The transfer level housing shops, restaurants, and, most importantly, the stations for the automated trains (shuttles) connecting the main terminal with the satellites.

Movement between the main terminal and the four satellites — Airside A, Airside C, Airside E, and Airside F — is carried out using free and fast automated trains (Automated People Movers). The shuttle ride takes just a couple of minutes. Important to remember: security screening does not take place in the central building, but at the entrance to each of the satellites. Once you pass control in one of the satellites, it is impossible to move to another without re-screening.

Each satellite (Airside) is a separate small terminal with its own boarding gates, shops, cafes, and rest areas. Your airline will be assigned to a specific satellite, so before taking the shuttle, be sure to check your boarding pass to know exactly which one you need — A, C, E, or F. International flights are most often serviced in satellites E and F.

Thanks to thoughtful logistics, the time for check-in and screening at TPA is often less than at other major airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. For navigation, simply follow the signs: first check in on Level 2, then go up to Level 3 and find the shuttle to your satellite, where you will pass security and proceed to your boarding gate.

The history of Tampa International Airport (TPA) is a story of innovation and constant development aimed at passenger convenience. The airport was founded in 1940 and was originally called Drew Field Municipal Airport. During World War II, it served as an important military base for the US Air Force, where bomber crews were trained. After the war, the facility was returned to the city and began its transformation into a major civil aviation hub.

A key moment in the airport's history was 1971, when the current terminal complex opened. Its design became a true revolution in global airport architecture. The Landside/Airside concept was implemented for the first time, which is still considered one of the most efficient. The idea was to separate the main terminal (Landside), where check-in, baggage, and parking are located, and the boarding gates (Airside), located in separate satellite buildings. These two zones were connected by the world's first fully automated shuttle trains, which significantly reduced the time and distance passengers had to walk.

Thanks to its innovative and flexible structure, the airport expanded easily to cope with growing passenger traffic. Over the decades, new satellite terminals (Airsides) were added. For example, in 1987, Airside F was opened to service international flights. In the 21st century, a large-scale modernisation was carried out, including the construction of a new Rental Car Center and the launch of the modern SkyConnect transport system, which linked the main terminal with parking areas and the car rental centre.

Tampa International Airport has repeatedly received high marks and awards for service quality. It regularly occupies top spots in passenger satisfaction ratings both in North America and globally. One interesting fact is that the airport is known not only for its efficiency but also for works of art. For instance, in the main terminal, passengers are greeted by a giant sculpture of a pink flamingo, which has become an informal symbol and a popular spot for photographs.

Tampa International Airport (TPA), one of the most convenient in the USA, is famous for its comfort and well-thought-out infrastructure, offering travellers a wide range of services. Here you will find numerous restaurants and cafes for every taste: from fast food establishments and cosy coffee shops to full-service restaurants where you can experience local Florida cuisine. The airport's shopping area will delight shopping enthusiasts with a variety of stores, including Duty-Free points, boutiques of famous brands, souvenir shops, and bookstores.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for mobile devices, conveniently located in waiting areas and at boarding gates, will allow you not to worry about your gadgets' battery life. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can use the premium lounges. They typically offer snacks, beverages, fresh press, and a more secluded atmosphere for work or relaxation.

Financial matters can be easily resolved right at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. In case of illness or the need for first aid, there is a medical station in the airport. For more serious cases, medical institutions are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport.

Tampa Airport pays great attention to the convenience of families with children. Special mother and child rooms are equipped here, where you can feed and change a baby in a calm environment. The entire airport complex is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, and specially equipped restrooms. You can also book an escort service in advance to make moving around the terminal as comfortable as possible.

For business travellers who need to work or hold a meeting, the airport provides business centres and conference rooms. If you have a long layover or an early flight, the Tampa Airport Marriott hotel is located right on the airport grounds, connected to the main terminal. Additionally, there are many other hotels for every taste and budget in the immediate vicinity of the airport complex.

Tampa International Airport (TPA) rightfully takes pride in its gastronomic scene, which is considered one of the best among airports in the USA. Here travellers will find many dining options for every taste and budget — from quick-service establishments to full-service restaurants, many of which represent authentic Florida cuisine.

Restaurants and Cafes Before Security (Landside)

In the main terminal, accessible to all visitors, there is a food court with several popular chains. This is an ideal place if you are seeing someone off or meeting them. Here you can find establishments such as P.F. Chang's, offering Asian cuisine, and the world-famous Hard Rock Cafe, where you can enjoy American classics in a musical atmosphere. Prices here range from medium to high.

Gastronomic Variety After Security (Airside)

The main part of the restaurants and cafes is located in the departure zones (Airside A, C, E, F), accessible only to passengers. Each zone has its own unique set of establishments.

• Airside A: Here you can find options for a quick snack, including sandwiches and coffee.
• Airside C: This terminal offers an excellent selection, including Ulele — a restaurant inspired by local culture and history, serving dishes made from fresh Florida ingredients and their own speciality beverages. There is also Burger 21 for burger lovers.
• Airside E: The main gem here is the Columbia Restaurant Café, a branch of Florida's oldest Spanish restaurant. Be sure to try their signature "1905" salad or an authentic Cuban sandwich. This is a great opportunity to get to know the local cuisine without leaving the airport.
• Airside F: The popular Potbelly Sandwich Shop and other cafes are located here, where you can have a quick and tasty bite before your flight.

Special Diets and Recommendations

Most full-service restaurants, such as Ulele and Columbia, offer vegetarian and gluten-free dishes — simply ask the waiter or look for special markings on the menu. For Muslim travellers, vegetarian options are widely available, though it is advisable to enquire about Halal certification directly with staff. For a quick vegan or vegetarian snack, you can find salads and sandwiches in coffee shops and grab-and-go establishments. Opening hours for most venues are tied to flight schedules, but they are generally open from early morning until late evening.

For a full lunch with local flair, Ulele or Columbia Restaurant Café are best suited. If time is limited, numerous Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, or Burger 21 outlets will be an excellent choice for a quick and satisfying meal.

To ensure your journey through Tampa International Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these proven tips. Planning in advance is the key to a calm start and end to your trip to sunny Florida.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, try to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within the USA — 2 hours prior. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without rushing. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight and save the boarding pass on your phone. Tampa Airport is known for its efficient layout, but queues are still possible during peak hours.

Passing Control and Seat Selection: When passing through security screening, be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. Observe the rule for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. As for choosing a seat on the plane, window seats will give you magnificent views of Tampa Bay during takeoff and landing, whilst aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to leave the cabin faster upon arrival.

Tips for Passengers with Transfers: Thanks to the convenient system of automated shuttle trains connecting the main terminal (Landside) with the four satellite departure zones (Airside), transfers at this airport are quite fast. Immediately after arrival, check the information board to find the number of your next gate, and follow the signs to the appropriate shuttle.

Saving Money and Unforeseen Situations: To save money, bring an empty reusable bottle with you and fill it with water after passing security control. You can also book a parking space online — this is often cheaper than paying on the spot. In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to find out about rebooking options or compensation. Fortunately, there is plenty to do at Tampa Airport: from shopping and various cafes to exploring interesting art objects scattered throughout the terminals.