50 Facts About Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

Location and Boundaries

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is a major hub in South Florida, connecting millions of travelers to various destinations. Let's dive into some interesting facts about this bustling airport.

1. FLL is located about 3 miles southwest of downtown Fort Lauderdale and 21 miles north of Miami.
2. The airport is surrounded by the cities of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Dania Beach.
3. It's easily accessible via major highways like Interstate 595, Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, Florida State Road A1A, and Florida State Road 5.

Airport Code and Designation

Understanding the codes and classifications of FLL helps in recognizing its importance in the aviation world.

4. The airport's IATA code is FLL.
5. Its ICAO code is KFLL.
6. The FAA LID is also FLL.
7. The FAA classifies FLL as a "major hub" facility for commercial air traffic.

History

FLL has a rich history that dates back nearly a century, evolving from a small airfield to a major international airport.

8. The airport was established in 1926 by World War I aviator Merle Fogg.
9. Initially, it had two criss-cross unpaved runways.
10. During World War II, it was commissioned by the U.S. Navy and renamed Naval Air Station Fort Lauderdale.
11. The base was used for refitting civil airliners for military service.
12. It became a main training base for Naval Aviators and enlisted naval air crewmen flying the Grumman TBF and TBM Avenger.

Facilities

FLL boasts modern facilities designed to handle a high volume of passengers and aircraft efficiently.

13. The airport covers an area of approximately 1,380 acres.
14. It has two runways: Runway 10L/28R (9,000 x 150 ft) and Runway 10R/28L (8,000 x 150 ft).
15. The airport has four terminals with a total of 66 gates.

Passenger Traffic

FLL is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers annually.

16. As of 2023, FLL serves over 35 million passengers each year.
17. In December 1969, the airport reached 1 million passengers.
18. By December 1994, it had reached 10 million passengers.
19. In December 2004, the number rose to 20 million passengers.
20. By December 2015, FLL served 25 million passengers.
21. In December 2019, the airport saw 36.7 million annual passengers.

Economic Impact

The airport significantly contributes to the local economy, providing jobs and supporting various industries.

22. FLL contributes $37.5 billion annually to the local economy as of February 2019.
23. The airport supports 17,148 on-airport jobs.
24. An additional 238,238 jobs are supported through ancillary services.

Airlines and Operations

FLL is a base for several major airlines and operates numerous daily flights.

25. Major airlines based at FLL include Allegiant Air, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines.
26. Spirit Airlines has its corporate headquarters nearby in Miramar, Florida.
27. FLL is the primary South Florida airport for Southwest Airlines.
28. The airport operates over 700 daily flights to 135 domestic and international destinations.

Terminals and Gates

The airport's terminals are designed to handle a large number of passengers efficiently.

29. FLL has four terminals, each equipped with modern facilities.
30. The terminals have ample space for check-in counters, baggage claim areas, and security checkpoints.

Runway Information

The runways at FLL are built to accommodate various aircraft sizes and ensure safe operations.

31. Runway 10L/28R is 9,000 feet long and 150 feet wide.
32. Runway 10R/28L is 8,000 feet long and 150 feet wide.
33. The runways are equipped with advanced navigation systems.

Airport Ownership and Management

FLL is managed by a dedicated department that oversees all operations and maintenance activities.

34. The Broward County Aviation Department manages FLL.
35. The department ensures the airport meets all safety and regulatory standards.

Nearby Airports

Several other airports in the vicinity offer additional options for travelers and pilots.

36. North Perry Airport (KHWO) is located 6 nm southwest of FLL.
37. Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (KFXE) is 8 nm north of FLL.
38. Pompano Beach Airpark (KPMP) is 11 nm north of FLL.
39. Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport (KOPF) is 12 nm southwest of FLL.
40. Miami International Airport (KMIA) is 18 nm southwest of FLL.
41. Boca Raton Airport (KBCT) is 19 nm north of FLL.

FBO Services

FLL offers a range of Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) services to cater to general aviation traffic.

42. Jetscape is one such FBO providing private terminals, aircraft fueling services, and storage facilities.
43. Jetscape operates on more than 21 acres at FLL with over 100,000 square feet of combined hangar space.
44. The FBO serves a broad spectrum of aircraft, from small single-engine planes to large cargo carriers.

Customs and Immigration Services

FLL ensures quick and efficient processing for international travelers.

45. The airport offers 24-hour on-site U.S. Customs services.

Ground Support Services

FLL provides various ground support services to enhance the travel experience.

46. Services include catering, crew cars, and complimentary interior cleaning.
47. The airport offers "Ramp Wi-Fi" access directly from aircraft.
48. Executive conference rooms are available for business meetings.
49. A dedicated pilot lounge offers comfortable seating and refreshments.
50. FLL has extensive hangar and ramp capacity for aircraft storage and maintenance.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport: A Vital Hub

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) stands out as a key player in both domestic and international travel. With its rich history dating back to 1926, FLL has grown into a bustling airport serving over 35 million passengers annually. Its strategic location, just 3 miles from downtown Fort Lauderdale and 21 miles from Miami, makes it easily accessible. The airport's four terminals and two runways handle over 700 daily flights to 135 destinations. FLL's economic impact is substantial, contributing $37.5 billion annually to the local economy and supporting thousands of jobs. From its modern facilities to its extensive ground support services, FLL ensures a smooth travel experience. Whether you're a business traveler, a tourist, or a pilot, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport offers everything you need for a seamless journey.