Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) proudly marked its 15th anniversary this last month, celebrating a decade and a half of exceptional service, growth, and economic impact in the Region. Since opening on May 23, 2010, ECP has been a cornerstone of progress and prosperity for Northwest Florida.
A Milestone of Service and Growth
Over the past 15 years, ECP has consistently evolved to meet the growing demands of the Region. Last year, the Airport welcomed nearly 1.9 million passengers, a remarkable 501% increase from its first year. This growth is a testament to ECP’s unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and enhancing the travel experience for its passengers.
Expansion and Innovation
ECP has undergone extensive expansion projects, including additional aircraft Gates, over 500 new parking spaces, and the completion of the Terminal Buildout, which provides much-needed holdroom space for passengers during peak travel seasons. In 2024, a larger baggage handling area was completed to ensure a more efficient experience for travelers.
The Airport has also introduced several new nonstop routes to popular destinations, including seasonal nonstop service this year on Delta Air Lines to New York City and Austin, encouraging tourism to Northwest Florida and offering convenient travel options for locals.
Economic Impact and Partnerships
ECP has solidified its role as a powerful economic generator for Northwest Florida. In partnership with Regional organizations such as the Bay Economic Development Alliance (Bay EDA) and Florida’s Great Northwest (FGNW), ECP has made significant contributions to the Region’s growing aerospace and aviation sectors.
In December, ECP finalized a partnership with IAG Aero Group to develop a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul facility, bringing in $107 million in capital investment and creating 500 new aviation jobs. Additionally, ECP has partnered with FSU InSPIRE to strengthen the aerodynamics and advanced manufacturing work through research, innovation, and education.
Looking Ahead
As ECP celebrates this significant milestone, the Airport remains dedicated to providing excellent passenger experiences, boosting economic growth, and sustaining its momentum. The contributions of ECP’s dedicated leaders, staff, and regional partners have been instrumental in guiding the Airport to further success in the next 15 years.
Mark Sheldon, Chair of the Airport Board of Directors, expressed his excitement for the future, stating, “ECP has been a vital part of our Region for the past 15 years, driving economic growth and providing convenient travel options for our residents. I am honored to play a role in guiding the Airport through this ongoing era of outstanding success. We owe our achievements to the dedication of our staff, the support of our partners, and most importantly, the trust and loyalty of our passengers. Thank you for choosing ECP and being a part of our journey. We look forward to serving you for many more years to come.
