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Tampa International Wins #1 in Customer Satisfaction for Third Time
By Leah Burdick, Reporter
Edited by Jack Croy · · · 2 min read
Tampa Bay · September 16, 2026
Tampa International Airport (TPA) was named the top large airport in customer satisfaction in J.D. Power's 2026 North America Airport Satisfaction Study, its third time earning the distinction.
TPA led the large-airport category, covering facilities that serve 10 million to 32.9 million passengers a year, after placing first in 2022 and 2023 and second in both 2024 and 2025.
The annual study measured traveler sentiment across North American airports in seven categories. TPA ranked first among large airports on three of them: trust in the airport, the departure experience and the arrival experience. It placed second in ease of travel through the terminal, airport staff and terminal facilities, and placed third in food, beverage and retail.
“Tampa International Airport is incredibly proud to receive our third J.D. Power award in just five years, an honor that reflects what our passengers experience every day when they travel through our world-class facilities," Airport CEO Michael Stephens said in a press release. "TPA has built a reputation for friendly, helpful service; clean, modern facilities; and spacious amenities that are convenient and accessible to all.”
More than 24 million passengers moved through the airport last year, and the new Airside D will add an additional 16 gates and provide a new U.S. Customs inspection facility and retail options. This new airside is under construction and is expected to open to the public in 2029.
"This award is a testament to the dedication and teamwork of our employees, airline partners, concessionaires, and countless others who work together every day to deliver an exceptional experience,” Stephens in a press release. “"Most importantly, it reflects the pride we all share in representing the Tampa Bay community and our commitment to making TPA an airport that sets the standard for excellence.”
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