An infrastructure project that seeks to position Tallahassee International (TLH) as the international gateway to northwest Florida is getting underway this month.


The $28 million International Processing Facility is part of a five-year plan to enhance and modernize infrastructure that aims to increase the airport’s annual economic impact from $599 million to $1 billion.


The new facility will allow TLH to accommodate international flights and give the ability for goods to be shipped to and received from worldwide destinations. It is expected to open for service in 2024.


The expansion would enable capacity to keep pace with demand.


“We expect the new facility will help us pass the 1 million annual passenger milestone,” he said. “To get to a true international airport, it’s a pretty long drive from Tallahassee at the moment.

“We therefore believe we’ll be able to further stimulate traffic, not just from North Florida, but also from South Georgia.”

Tallahassee International handled 184,927 passengers during the first quarter of 2022, equivalent to 93.9% of the total achieved during the same period in 2019. Three carriers currently provide scheduled service: OAG Schedules Analyser shows that American Airlines accounts for 51.7% of the market; Delta Air Lines for 43.9%; and Silver Airways for 4.4%