What To Know
- While it may not be the largest airport in the world, Key West International Airport (EYW) is strategically located and offers a convenient gateway to the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys.
- While Key West International Airport may not be the largest airport in the world, it is a vital transportation hub for the Florida Keys.
- Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, EYW is ready to welcome you to the vibrant and unforgettable city of Key West.
Is Key West Airport big? This question often arises among travelers planning a trip to this enchanting island city. While it may not be the largest airport in the world, Key West International Airport (EYW) is strategically located and offers a convenient gateway to the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the details of EYW’s size, facilities, and the factors that influence its perceived magnitude.
Size and Capacity
Key West International Airport covers an area of approximately 220 acres, including the terminal building, runways, and other facilities. It has a single terminal with 10 gates, which are capable of handling a mix of aircraft, including commercial jets, turboprops, and private planes. The airport’s primary runway is 5,000 feet long, while its secondary runway is 3,400 feet long. This runway configuration allows EYW to accommodate a wide range of aircraft sizes, from small Cessna 172s to larger Boeing 737s.
Facilities and Amenities
Despite its relatively compact size, Key West International Airport offers a range of facilities and amenities to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience. These include:
- Baggage Claim: There is a single baggage claim area located on the lower level of the terminal.
- Concessions: The airport has a limited selection of concessions, including a coffee shop, a snack bar, and a gift shop.
- Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
- Rental Cars: Several car rental companies have counters in the terminal.
- Taxi and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available outside the terminal.
Factors Influencing Perception of Size
While EYW is not a large airport by conventional standards, there are several factors that can influence its perceived magnitude:
- Destination: Key West is a popular tourist destination, which attracts a significant number of visitors. This can create the impression that the airport is larger than it actually is.
- Limited Flight Options: EYW has a limited number of direct flights to major cities. This can lead to the perception that the airport is smaller than it could be.
- Proximity to the City: The airport is located just a few miles from downtown Key West. This close proximity can make the airport feel more compact than it actually is.
Comparison to Other Airports
To provide a perspective on EYW’s size, let’s compare it to a few other airports in the region:
- Miami International Airport (MIA): MIA is one of the largest airports in the United States, with over 100 gates and four runways.
- Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL): FLL is the second largest airport in South Florida, with over 50 gates and three runways.
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): MCO is the largest airport in Central Florida, with over 100 gates and four runways.
Compared to these major airports, EYW is significantly smaller in terms of size and capacity. However, it is important to note that EYW serves a different purpose, catering primarily to tourism and leisure travel to the Florida Keys.
Future Expansion Plans
There are currently no plans for major expansion at Key West International Airport. However, the airport authority is constantly evaluating the need for future improvements and upgrades to ensure that it can continue to meet the needs of the traveling public.
In a nutshell: A Convenient Gateway to Paradise
While Key West International Airport may not be the largest airport in the world, it is a vital transportation hub for the Florida Keys. Its convenient location, range of facilities, and efficient operations make it an ideal gateway to this tropical paradise. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, EYW is ready to welcome you to the vibrant and unforgettable city of Key West.
What People Want to Know
Q: Is Key West Airport open 24 hours a day?
A: No, Key West Airport is not open 24 hours a day. The terminal is typically open from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Q: Are there any direct flights from major cities to Key West?
A: Yes, there are direct flights to Key West from several major cities, including Atlanta, Baltimore, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Dallas, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
Q: How far is Key West Airport from downtown Key West?
A: Key West Airport is located approximately 3 miles from downtown Key West. The drive takes about 10-15 minutes without traffic.
Q: Are there any public transportation options from the airport to downtown Key West?
A: Yes, there is a public bus that runs from the airport to downtown Key West. The fare is $2.00 per person.
Q: Can I rent a car at Key West Airport?
A: Yes, there are several car rental companies with counters in the airport terminal.
