TAMPA, Fla. — Happy anniversary, Tampa International Airport!
On this day, 50 years ago, TPA's new terminal complex had its grand opening and welcomed its first travelers. Now it's consistently ranked as one of the best airports in the country.
Tampa International Airport was ranked the No. 1 airport of its size by the Wall Street Journal in late 2019. It also earned the No. 4 spot on Travel & Leisure's "Worlds Best Awards" in 2020.
"This building has been the source of countless special memories," Tampa International Airport CEO Joe Lopano said. "I'm proud to say that after all these years, we're better and stronger than ever and it's all because of our incredible team and the support of our passengers and community."
To celebrate 50 years of flying, crews have set up selfie stations around the airport. You'll also find some treats and giveaways going on.
According to the airport, every 50th traveler going down the escalator, exiting the shuttles, and stopping at its other key touchpoints will be giveaway winners on April 15.
There will also be anniversary decorations and videos playing throughout the main terminal.
But for the grand sweepstakes, you don't have to visit TPA today to win. You have until 10 a.m. Thursday to enter online for the chance to win one of the prizes listed below:
1st Place:
- $1,000 to spend at TPA restaurants and shops
- Exclusive airfield tour for you and a friend
- TPA swag basket
2nd Place:
- TPA swag basket
3rd Place:
- TPA model plane
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