Florida Construction News staff writer
Operations swiftly resumed at Tampa International Airport (TPA) following a thorough damage assessment and cleanup after Hurricane Milton. However, the three General Aviation airports managed by the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority—Peter O. Knight Airport (TPF), Tampa Executive Airport (VDF), and Plant City Municipal Airport (PCM)—are still grappling with extensive damage.
Peter O. Knight Airport, on Davis Islands near downtown Tampa, suffered significant damage from Hurricane Helene on Sept. 26. The airfield experienced two to three feet of storm surge, leading to damage in numerous hangars.
Tampa Executive Airport, located near the Florida State Fairgrounds, resumed limited operations Oct. 14. The airport experienced damage to its hangar facilities during Milton, although its airfield and taxiways remain in good condition.
Hangar facilities at Plant City Municipal Airport, located in eastern Hillsborough County were damaged, but power was restored quickly, allowing the airport to resume operations on Oct. 14 after a brief closure.
“It’s been truly amazing to see everyone pull together during this difficult time,” Fay stated. “We’ve been coordinating closely with maintenance teams and local partners to ensure these important airports are back up and running as quickly and safely as possible,” said Brett Fay, vice president of General Aviation for the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority.
Authorities say they are optimistic about restoring full functionality to these vital aviation facilities “in the near future”.
