5 people are killed and 6 others injured in a mass shooting at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Broward County, Florida.

Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport: A Vital Gateway to South Florida

Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport, commonly referred to as FLL by its IATA code, KFLL by its ICAO designation, and FLL again by its FAA LID, stands as a pivotal public airport nestled within Broward County, Florida, United States. It plays a crucial role as one of the three primary airports serving the expansive Miami metropolitan area, complementing Miami International Airport (MIA) and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) to facilitate regional air travel.

Strategically positioned, FLL boasts exceptional accessibility, located immediately off major transportation arteries including Interstate 595, Interstate 95, U.S. Route 1, Florida State Road A1A, and Florida State Road 5. Its unique geographical footprint is bordered by the vibrant cities of Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Dania Beach. This prime location places FLL approximately 3 miles (5 km) southwest of downtown Fort Lauderdale's bustling core and about 21 miles (34 km) north of the dynamic heart of Miami, making it a convenient entry point for travelers destined for various parts of South Florida.

FLL's Expansive Network and Service Reach

Evolving significantly since the late 1990s, Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport has transformed into a critical intercontinental gateway. Boasting an impressive schedule of over 700 daily flights, FLL connects travelers to more than 135 domestic and international destinations. While Miami International Airport (MIA) continues to handle the majority of ultra-long-haul international flights and global connections, FLL specializes in offering extensive service to the Caribbean, Latin America, and increasingly, key European cities, providing diverse travel options for millions of passengers annually.

As a primary airport, FLL caters directly to the air travel needs of residents and visitors in the Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, and Boca Raton areas. Furthermore, it functions as a vital secondary airport for specific regions of Miami and areas situated north of Boca Raton, including communities such as Delray Beach, Boynton Beach, and even parts of West Palm Beach. This is particularly beneficial for travelers seeking flights or destinations not served by Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), ensuring comprehensive air access across the tri-county area.

Key Airline Bases and FAA Classification

FLL serves as a significant operational base for several prominent airlines, underscoring its importance in the North American air travel network. It is a key base for:

Beyond these, Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport stands out as the primary South Florida airport for Southwest Airlines. Although Southwest also maintains service to Miami International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport, the overwhelming majority of its flights in the region are routed through FLL, solidifying its position as a major hub for one of the largest low-cost carriers in the world.

The airport's significant commercial air traffic volume and passenger activity have earned it a prestigious classification by the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) as a "major hub" facility. This designation reflects FLL's crucial role in the national air transportation system, signifying that it handles at least 1% of the total annual U.S. passenger enplanements, highlighting its substantial contribution to both regional and national air travel infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions About FLL

Which airport serves Fort Lauderdale?
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is the primary airport serving Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas in Broward County, Florida. It is also a key airport for the broader Miami metropolitan area.
Is FLL an international airport?
Yes, Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is an international airport, offering hundreds of daily flights to over 135 domestic and international destinations across the Caribbean, Latin America, and Europe.
What major airlines operate out of FLL?
FLL is a significant base for Allegiant Air, JetBlue, and Spirit Airlines. It is also the primary South Florida airport for Southwest Airlines, with a substantial number of their flights operating from FLL. Other major carriers also serve the airport.
How close is FLL to Miami?
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is located approximately 21 miles (34 km) north of downtown Miami, making it a convenient alternative for travelers heading to or from the Miami metropolitan area.
What is the FAA classification of FLL?
The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) classifies FLL as a "major hub" facility. This classification indicates its high volume of commercial air traffic and significant contribution to national passenger enplanements.