Official Newsletter of Broward County's Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

Message From the CEO

Mark E. Gale

CEO/Director of Aviation

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)

Dear Friends,

July is in the rear-view mirror, helped along by thrilling World Cup soccer activities across South Florida, the U.S., and other global regions, as fans gathered at games or watch parties to cheer on their favorite players and teams. During July, the Broward County Aviation Department (BCAD) marked America's 250th anniversary by hosting our first naturalization ceremony at FLL. Additionally, BCAD officials joined FLL's longtime airline partner, JetBlue Airways, in celebrating its launch of new service from our airport as it also expanded operations into Terminal 4 for select flights.

During the month, FLL welcomed new route announcements or inaugural flights from several other existing airlines, including Avelo, Breeze, and Frontier. Two new Colombia routes from Avianca took flight on July 15 to Barranquilla and Cali. Read more about these highlights and others in this month's NewsFLLash. In other key recent news, the Federal Aviation Administration committed over $36 million in grants for ongoing and new FLL projects through its Airport Terminals and Airport Infrastructure programs.

As the peak of hurricane season (mid-August to mid-October) nears, it's a reminder to have our emergency kits ready should a powerful storm threaten. However, at least one adjusted forecast is now predicting a well-below-average season. Also, we've already had some more record heat waves this summer, so keep watch of any health risk warnings.

Coming soon, local and visiting foodies will have a chance to explore Visit Lauderdale's two-month-long culinary program, Dine Out Lauderdale, from August 1 to September 30, which showcases specialty three-course meals at attractive fixed prices from participating Greater Fort Lauderdale restaurants.

Interested in working at FLL? Don't miss out on the opportunity to attend the airport's next job fair on August 28 in Fort Lauderdale. We look forward to connecting a range of airport businesses with potential new employees seeking careers in aviation.

Thanks for staying connected!

Airport Job Fair Returns

Attendees explore job options

Save the date for the 5th Annual FLL Job Fair set for August 28 at the Broward County Convention Center in Fort Lauderdale from 9AM-1PM. Get ready to land your dream job at the 2026 event where opportunities take off. Bring your resume, energy, and ambition as you meet with company representatives to learn about opportunities across the airport community. Make sure to share this event! Learn more about this free job fair or RSVP here.

Quicker Entry

For arriving int’l U.S. citizens

During July, BCAD, in partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), launched Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP) inside FLL’s federal inspection stations in Terminals 1 and 4. EPP is a next-generation initiative that uses advanced biometric technology to help confirm returning U.S. citizens’ identities in real time, allowing eligible travelers to move through inspections more efficiently while maintaining strong security standards, according to CBP. There is no advance enrollment or fee to participate, and travelers can opt out of EPP if they prefer the standard CBP inspection process. FLL is delighted to join the list of U.S. airports offering the EPP program.

FAC Conference Recap

Elevating Airports theme

Broward County welcomed aviation leaders from across the state July 26-29 for the 57th Annual Florida Airports Council (FAC) Conference & Exposition at the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. Hosted by FLL, in partnership with FAC and Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, the event drew approximately 1,200 industry professionals. Broward County Commissioner Lamar P. Fisher delivered opening remarks during the four-day gathering, highlighting the county's leadership in aviation and the industry’s importance as a major economic engine. The conference provided a forum for collaboration, innovation, and discussion of key issues shaping Florida's airports, reinforcing FLL's key role in the state's aviation community.

WTS South Florida FLL Tour

Inside the EOC

FLL welcomed members of the South Florida chapter of WTS for a familiarization tour on July 24 to learn how the airport operates as a multimodal transportation hub. The group of about 30 transportation professionals and civil engineers from the public and private sectors visited FLL’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Airport Operations Control Center, and the South Runway. These areas showcased FLL’s regional connectivity, airside operations, and overall operational coordination. WTS South Florida’s mission is to support a safe, efficient, and connected transportation system.

More JetBlue Growth

New domestic and int’l routes on tap

JetBlue held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at FLL on July 9 to celebrate the launch of several new domestic and international routes during the month and its plans for more flights by year-end. Broward County Commissioner Michael Udine, FLL CEO/Director of Aviation Mark Gale, JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty and its President Marty St. George participated in the event. Key event speakers delivered remarks highlighting JetBlue’s continued commitment to serving South Florida travelers.

On the same day, JetBlue also expanded operations into Terminal 4 for passenger check‑in, bag drop, and security screening for flights to Jamaica, the Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico only. All other JetBlue flights continue to depart from their main check-in operations in Terminal 3.

North Perry Updates

Eye on Safety

Safety remains a top priority at our general aviation facility, North Perry Airport (HWO). Two recent updates to airport safety initiatives presented at a town hall in August 2025 are as follows:

Safety Assessment: Broward County has engaged a consultant to conduct a new safety assessment at HWO to identify any areas to improve safety. BCAD issued the vendor a notice to proceed on July 7, and the assessment is anticipated to be finished in a year.
Lead Emission Screening: The request for proposal process is ongoing. Negotiations with the second-ranked firm began in July, after contract discussions with the first-ranked firm resulted in the declaration of an impasse on June 30.

For additional updates, visit Safety at HWO.

Breeze’s New Flights

Ohio & New Jersey routes planned

Breeze Airways is expanding service at FLL with new flights to Dayton, Ohio and Trenton, N.J., the Utah-based carrier announced in late June. Nonstop service to Dayton begins Oct. 9, connecting travelers to the city's lively arts scene, walkable downtown, and nearby outdoor recreation. Service to Trenton starts September 20 with one-stop flights on Thursdays and Sundays, offering access to historic districts, riverfront parks, and close proximity to Princeton’s cultural attractions. With these additions, Breeze will serve 16 destinations from FLL by early October, broadening travel options for South Florida passengers and strengthening connectivity across the region.

FLL Ambassadors Spotlight

Exceptional service appreciation

Congratulations to Airport Ambassador Joe Sayers, recently recognized in July for his exceptional service during the unexpected Spirit Airlines cessation of operations on May 2. When a stranded family with two young children needed support, Sayers listened, assessed their situation, and suggested an alternative travel option they hadn’t considered. Thanks to his guidance, the family made it home that same day and later emailed CEO Mark Gale to praise him as “someone special.” Since joining in June 2023, Sayers has contributed over 1,800 hours, updated key program resources, and mentored new Ambassadors, exemplifying the outstanding service our volunteers provide every day. Email VolunteerFLL@broward.org for more information.

First Citizenship Ceremony

In honor of America’s 250th Birthday

FLL proudly hosted its first naturalization ceremony on July 1, welcoming 26 new U.S. citizens from 12 countries as part of America’s 250th anniversary celebrations. The event underscored the significance of citizenship, community, and FLL’s role as a welcoming gateway to the United States. Broward County Mayor Mark D. Bogen, along with airport CEO/Director of Aviation Mark Gale, delivered remarks congratulating the new citizens and their journeys. Approximately 100 family members and guests attended, marking a meaningful milestone for Broward County’s FLL and our South Florida community.

Avelo’s New Texas Service

Area’s first hometown airline

Avelo Airlines announced a new nonstop route from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to McKinney National Airport (DTX) on June 30, with service beginning Thursday, November 19. This route offers convenient access to the Dallas metro area, known for its thriving business districts, acclaimed restaurants, and rich cultural attractions, while also connecting visitors to McKinney’s historic downtown, boutique shops, and welcoming small-town character. Nonstop flights will operate on Sundays, Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. This added service broadens connections between South Florida and North Texas.

CHECK OUT THE SKY'S THE LIMIT MONTHLY STATS AT FLL.NET

FLLylights

Other key updates

Photo Credit: Andre Chambers

Patriotic-themed Aircraft

A JetBlue aircraft sports its new America250 livery on an FLL stop.

ADA Law Turns 36

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) celebrated its 36th Anniversary on July 26. The ADA works to ensure all people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

Frontier Adds Flights

Frontier Airlines plans to add service to Denver, CO., on November 20 after starting nonstop service to Detroit, MI. on July 5.

New Fact Sheets

The latest editions of the FLL and HWO Fact Sheets are now available online. Each publication highlights of its respective airport’s achievements and milestones in 2025.