SRQ Airport Celebrates Opening of Concourse A Amid Major Expansion
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) marked a significant milestone with the grand opening of its new Concourse A on January 15, 2025. This expansion, the airport's first major addition since 1989, represents a $115 million investment to enhance passenger capacity and modernize facilities.
The newly unveiled Concourse A is a ground-level, five-gate facility exclusively leased by Allegiant Air. The space introduces upgraded amenities, including local dining options such as Anna Maria Oyster Bar and Patricks, a sundries shop, and a dedicated security screening area. These additions are designed to improve the travel experience for passengers at the rapidly growing airport.
With the concourse opening, Allegiant Air announced the launch of eight new nonstop routes from SRQ, bringing its total destinations from the airport to 35. The new routes include connections to Greenville/Spartanburg, Moline, Albany, Elmira/Corning, Omaha, Roanoke, Knoxville, and Lexington. These routes are part of Allegiant’s largest growth initiative, including 44 new routes nationwide.
The development of Concourse A is expected to increase SRQ's passenger capacity by 2.5 million, aligning with the airport’s rapid growth over the past five years. The investment also includes upgrades to Terminal B, such as utility improvements, restroom renovations, and new escalators in the ticketing and baggage areas.
This latest expansion comes at a transitional time for the airport. After more than thirty years of service, Rick Piccolo, longtime president and CEO, announced his retirement, effective June 30, 2025. As the airport moves forward, a national search for his successor is underway to continue the momentum of growth and innovation.
With the opening of Concourse A, SRQ cements its role as a key hub in the region. It offers enhanced connectivity and services to meet the needs of its growing passenger base.