New Destinations and what to expect at the airport
The busy season for Pensacola is upon us and we are seeing the influx of visitors, travelers, vacationers, and the like to our airport. So what information do we have for our area partners about what is going on at the airport?
IT’S BUSY!
2019 was a banner year for the Pensacola International Airport with over 2.2 million passengers. That is an increase of 17% from 2018, which saw a 16% growth rate from the previous year. Double digit growth like that is not common in the air industry. In February of 2020, the airport was already 11% above from 2019’s numbers and we had not even started the spring/summer season.
So this year, we are comparing to 2019 for obvious reasons. Looking at the numbers on a rolling weekly average, Pensacola International Airport is currently 4-6% above the same time frame in 2019. This is a huge turnaround for our area despite a global pandemic, hurricane damage, no easy bridge to the beach, etc.
AND WE HAVE JUST BEGUN!!
New Destinations Coming this Summer
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, United Airlines will offer expanded service at PNS with non-stop flights to Cleveland (CLE), Milwaukee (MKE), Cincinnati (CVG), and Pittsburgh (PIT). These four new destinations open up more opportunity for travelers and the Pensacola community to travel and grow. Ankit Gupta, vice president of United’s domestic network planning and scheduling, said bookings have been gaining steam. Earlier in the pandemic, “People just didn’t feel comfortable buying three months out,” Mr. Gupta said. Now more customers are starting to make summer plans, he said. “We’re seeing higher bookings farther out.”
Pensacola International Airport will welcome Spirit Airlines starting June 10th with service to seven destinations. Spirit will offer the only nonstop flights to Columbus (CMH), Indianapolis (IND) and Louisville (SDF), along with nonstop service Austin (AUS), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Kansas City (MCI) and St. Louis (STL). LEARN MORE
This increase in service will offer our area a unique opportunity to reach many parts of the nation with direct flights, less expensive air fare, and the ability to introduce more travelers to our piece of paradise!
what can you expect at PNS
Air travel has certainly changed over the last year, but we remain committed to provide the best air travel experience on the Gulf Coast. Florida has been and continues to be a hotspot for travel and vacation. The airport, airlines, and our partners have taken this very seriously and are making sure we provide a safe, healthy, and easy flying experience.
Previously, the CDC, and many other entities, have recommended travel only if it was essential. But now that many are getting the vaccine and states are opening back up, the CDC has altered its direction. IN April of 2021, the CDC says that fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19. People who are fully vaccinated can travel safely within the United States. Another change to the CDC’s recommendations is that fully vaccinated travelers do not need to get tested before or after travel nor do they need to self-quarantine unless their destination requires it.
Another update for the airport is in regard to masks. On April 22, the City Ordinance requiring masks was not renewed. However, the Federal Law requiring masks at airports, buses, taxis, ridesharing, etc is still in effect. Click here to read the CDC Order. This mask order is being enfored by DHS and TSA through their Security Directive 1582/84-21-01. (read more here)
So what does all this mean? Simply, everyone must wear a mask while at the airport. This includes passengers, guests, and staff. Those who do not wear a mask will not be allowed to go through TSA Checkpoint or board their flight. Also, those who refuse to wear a mask will be asked to leave the airport.
WE ARE READY WHEN YOU ARE
We know it has been a while for most people and that comfort levels are different for everyone. We get it. Whatever your comfort level – rest assured that we are clean, safe, and ready for you. Find what you’ve been missing. Find your happy place. Fly at ease! Book a flight today to one of our great destinations. Or if you are from out of the Pensacola area, come see what makes Pensacola one of the best places to visit, live and do business! We guarantee you won’t be sorry you came.
