St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport or PIE is where our son experienced his first interaction with airplanes as a toddler and was the same location as his first flight to Asheville, North Carolina to explore the Smoky Mountains and Blue Ridge Parkway in 2018 at the age of ten. (He was even given a tour of the cockpit by the pilot, which helped to shape his love and fascination with mechanical engineering, flight, and logistics.) 

Now, as a high school junior, he plans to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering and work for SpaceX, helping to design their out-of-orbit vehicles. But it all started with that flight out of PIE and that got me thinking about the history and future of St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. So, here are some things even long-time locals probably don’t know about this quaint, yet evergrowing airport right in our community…

When Was St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport (PIE) Built and Why Was it Considered Necessary with Tampa International Airport or TIA being So Close?

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, commonly known as PIE, first opened its doors at 14700 Terminal Boulevard in 1941—approximately twenty-seven years after the first commercial flight in the United States, from downtown St. Petersburg, across Tampa Bay to Tampa, Florida, piloted by Tony Jannus in a Benoist XIV flying boat. (The first passenger was the former Mayor of St. Pete, Abram C. Pheil, who bid $400 in an auction for the first ticket—equivalent to $10,000 in 1924.) The flight covered about 21 miles and lasted approximately 23 minutes.

PIE began its service as a modest field primarily serving military flights during World War II. But why was it built so close to Tampa International Airport (TIA), which is only about 20 miles away? Well, that’s simple. At the time, the local demand for air travel was growing—and growing rapidly—so the region needed merely more options.

Addressing a Growing Demand for Air Travel

As the 20th century came to a close, the Tampa Bay area started to swell with residents and tourists alike. It became clear that TIA alone couldn’t manage the number of people flying in and out. While TIA served the broader region, PIE aimed to cater to those living in the Pinellas County area directly, offering easier access and convenience. Yep; providing regional travel services to and from in-state and near-state locations, eliminating the need for long drives.

Enhancing Local Connectivity

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport is essential for connecting Pinellas County with both domestic and international destinations. The airport allows for lower-cost airlines to operate in the area, providing budget-friendly travel options. It allows locals and tourists alike to travel for less, instead of having to solely rely a pricier option in and out of TIA; that’s where PIE makes the biggest difference.

Moreover, by having two airports in the vicinity, travelers have greater flexibility in choosing flight times and airlines. This tag team creates multiple routes to get people to their favorite destinations; allowing them to pick whichever suits them best. In turn, these options help to boost the local economy and put real dollars into small businesses in the travel, hospitality, retail, and connected industries.

Supporting the Local Economy

Again, the economic benefits of PIE extend beyond just travel. The airport plays a crucial role in the local economy by creating jobs and attracting tourism. With its growth, more businesses sprang up nearby, leading to increased local spending. It’s like planting a seed that grows into a flourishing tree; the benefits spread far and wide. This translates, according to recent reports, to St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport generating an estimated economic impact of over $3 billion in the Tampa Bay area and supporting nearly 21,000 local jobs.

How Did PIE Become the Official Call Letters for St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport?

Unfortunately, there isn’t an intriguing or dramatic reason for the airport’s call letters. In fact, it was so named due to convenience. Hence, the PIE call letters for St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport come from its original name: Pinellas International Airport.

When the airport was established in the early twentieth century, it was just named after the county it was located in, Pinellas County. And since the IATA (International Air Transport Association) designation for airports is usually a three-letter code, ​”PIE” was chosen as the code for Pinellas International Airport.

Even after the airport’s name was officially changed to St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport in 1958, the PIE call letters remained, becoming a familiar identifier for the airport.

When was St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport PIE Last Expanded and Are There Plans for Future Growth?

The short answer is the last expansion occurred about nine years ago and yes, there are future plans to make the airport even larger. Now, let’s take a closer look at its expansion history and what’s in store.

PIE has seen its fair share of changes over the years. The last significant expansion took place in 2015. During this expansion, the airport improved its facilities, added more gates, and enhanced passenger services. This upgrade helped PIE accommodate a growing number of travelers seeking sunny getaways in Florida. Since then, the airport has been buzzing with activity, proving that it can keep up with the rising demands of air travel.

Current Trends: Traffic Numbers Soaring

Ever noticed how busy airports can get during peak seasons? Well, PIE is no exception. Over the past few years, the number of travelers flying in and out of the airport has skyrocketed. With its prime location, easy access to beautiful beaches, and a charming local vibe, PIE attracts tourists from all over. The increasing passenger traffic shows that this airport is becoming a go-to spot for those craving a Florida escape.

Future Growth: What’s on the Horizon?

Looking ahead, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport is not slowing down. Plans for future growth are already in the works. The airport management has expressed intentions to continue upgrades and expansions. These improvements aim to enhance the passenger experience, provide additional services, and expand the airport’s operational capacity. With the booming tourism scene in the surrounding area, it’s clear that a vision for growth is essential.

PIE is poised for a major facelift, as Pinellas County Commissioners have approved crucial funding and contracts for a $110 million terminal expansion. This ambitious project aims to enhance the airport’s capacity and amenities, potentially attracting more airlines and destinations to serve Pinellas County residents and visitors.

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport has become a significant regional hub, handling 2.5 million passengers last year alone. Currently, Allegiant Air operates non-stop routes to over 60 cities from the airport.

In a recent meeting, the county commission gave the green light for PIE to engage New York-based C&S Companies in a $14.33 million contract. This agreement tasks C&S with designing and overseeing construction of the expanded terminal facilities.

The expansion plans include several key improvements: additional gates to accommodate existing airlines and attract new ones, a streamlined TSA checkpoint, an elevated passenger boarding area, and expanded space for new dining and retail options.

To manage this extensive project, PIE and Pinellas County issued a request for proposals in May, seeking a construction manager to collaborate with C&S Companies. The specifics of the construction manager’s role will be finalized before awarding the contract.

Funding for this ambitious project will come from multiple sources. Commissioners approved an application for a $6 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This funding, targeted for 2024, would kickstart the design phase of the terminal expansion. With these approvals in place, PIE officials anticipate breaking ground on the expansion in 2026.

In a separate but related development, the commission also approved a $2.5 million Public Transportation Grant Agreement (PTGA) with the Florida Department of Transportation. This funding will support design work and environmental preparation for the Airco site, a separate airport property.

The Airco property, spanning nearly 100 acres and formerly home to a golf course, represents the largest undeveloped land parcel in Pinellas County. Once infrastructure improvements are complete, this prime real estate could host a mix of aviation-related and commercial developments, further boosting the airport’s economic impact on the region.

Community Impact: A Thriving Local Economy

Growth at PIE isn’t just about the airport itself; it has a ripple effect on the local economy. More flights and passengers mean more jobs and opportunities—just as a tree grows its branches, as the airport expands, local businesses flourish. Restaurants, hotels, shops, and more benefit from the influx of travelers. The airport is not just an entry point; it’s a lifeline for the community, driving tourism and local spending.

The Sky’s the Limit for PIE

St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport has a bright future ahead. With plans for expansion and a steady increase in passenger numbers, it’s clear that PIE is positioning itself as a key player in the aviation sector. Whether you’re a frequent flier or a local, the growth of this airport promises all of us an easier and more enjoyable travel experience. So buckle up, because St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport is set to take off!