Palm Beach International Airport evolves as key hub for private aviation

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Palm Beach International Airport evolves as key hub for private aviation

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Simple Flying | Simple Flying

By Sky Industry News

Jan 10, 2025

Florida's Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) has become a key destination for private aviation, known for its convenient location and luxurious amenities. The airport is situated in one of Florida's wealthiest regions and has seen a rise in popularity due to technological advancements in private aviation.

PBI has received recognition as the third-best US airport by Travel + Leisure Magazine, fifth-best by Condé Nast Traveler, and seventh-best medium airport according to JD Power's 2024 satisfaction survey. Since its opening in 1936, PBI has undergone significant transformations. Originally named Morrison Field, it served as a military base during World War II before transitioning back to commercial use post-war.

Key developments at PBI include the dedication of the main terminal in 1966 and the construction of Delta Air Lines' second main terminal in 1974. The David McCampbell Terminal was dedicated in 1988, and post-9/11 security upgrades were implemented in the 2000s.

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Grace Morrison played a pivotal role in establishing PBI. As an aviator herself, she became the first female pilot to fly solo in Palm Beach County and led efforts to construct the airfield. Unfortunately, she passed away shortly before Morrison Field was dedicated.

Today, PBI continues to serve both commercial and private aviation customers with Fixed-Base Operators like Signature Aviation and Jet Aviation providing enhanced services for private fliers. Technological advancements such as biometric scanning are being integrated into security processes to improve efficiency.

The airport features several spots for plane spotting enthusiasts, including locations on Perimeter Road and at the short-term parking garage. Gulfstream's nearby service center adds business models like the Gulfstream G650 to the mix of aircraft visible at PBI.

In terms of passenger traffic, PBI recovered from pandemic lows with over 7 million passengers recorded in 2023. Delta Air Lines leads among airlines serving PBI with a market share of over 26%. Top routes include destinations like Atlanta (ATL), Newark (EWR), and New York (LGA).

Upcoming changes at PBI include an art exhibition featuring local artists set to open this May on Level Two near the putting green. Additional expansions such as Concourse B improvements are also planned alongside new hospitality options opening nearby.