West Palm Beach Airport Overview

West Palm Beach International Airport (IATA: PBI, ICAO: KPBI) is a public international airport in West Palm Beach, Florida. Known for its ease of access, short queues, and proximity to luxurious destinations like Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and Jupiter, PBI is a preferred gateway for commercial and private aviation. It offers scheduled domestic services and supports international general aviation and charter flights through U.S. Customs facilities.

It handles over 8 million passengers annually and offers convenient regional access. The airport is located just west of downtown West Palm Beach, making it easy for travellers to reach the city centre quickly.

The airport features three runways and provides various services, including general aviation and customs facilities. It supports both domestic and some international flights, catering to a wide variety of passengers. Its size and location make it an essential hub for travellers visiting Florida’s south-central Atlantic coast.

General Information – West Palm Beach Airport

  • Location: West Palm Beach, Florida
  • Country: United States
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • IATA Code: PBI
  • ICAO Code: KPBI
  • Elevation: 19 feet (6 metres)
  • Coordinates: 26°40′59″N 080°05′44″W
  • Timezone: UTC−5 (Eastern Standard Time) / UTC−4 (Daylight Saving Time)
  • Distance from City Centre: Approx. 5.6 km (3.5 miles) west of downtown West Palm Beach
  • Website: www.pbia.org
  • Operator: Palm Beach County Department of Airports
  • Services: Scheduled domestic flights, international GA and charter, cargo, and military support

Airport Details – West Palm Beach Airport

  • Runways: 3
  • Runway Designations and Lengths:
    • 10L/28R: 3,200 m (10,501 ft) – Asphalt
    • 10R/28L: 1,609 m (5,280 ft) – Asphalt
    • 14/32: 2,134 m (7,000 ft) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surfaces: Asphalt
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for Code C–E aircraft; wide-body capable
  • Fire Services: ARFF Category 8
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Aids: ILS, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
  • Customs and Immigration: U.S. CBP available for general aviation and pre-arranged international arrivals
  • Aircraft Types: Commercial airliners, business jets, charters, military
  • Terminals: One main terminal with three concourses (A, B, and C)
  • Cargo Facilities: FedEx, UPS, and DHL operate dedicated cargo facilities
  • Fuel: JET A, AVGAS
  • FBOs: Atlantic Aviation, Jet Aviation, Galaxy FBO
  • Equipment: GPU, lavatory, potable water, de-icing (rarely needed), hangars, maintenance
  • Ground Services: Full passenger, business aviation, and charter support

Flight Operations

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for international general aviation with CBP coordination
  • Permission Required: Yes, for charter and international private flights
  • Slots: Not required
  • Aircraft Types: Up to Code E (B777, A330); A380 not typically supported
  • Alternate Airports:
    • FLL: Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport
    • MIA: Miami International Airport

Contact Information

Passenger Information

  • Immigration Requirements: U.S. visa, ESTA, or appropriate travel authorisation required
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa or ESTA as applicable
  • Transport Options: Taxis, Uber/Lyft, Palm Tran public buses, car hire, hotel shuttles
  • Nearby Accommodation:
    • Close to Airport: Hilton Palm Beach Airport, Embassy Suites, Holiday Inn
    • In Palm Beach: The Breakers, Four Seasons Resort, Eau Palm Beach Resort
  • Currency: U.S. Dollar (USD); all major credit and debit cards accepted

Airport History and Development

West Palm Beach Airport, officially called Palm Beach International Airport (PBI), opened in the mid-20th century. It was developed to meet the growing demand for air travel in Palm Beach County, Florida. Over the years, the airport has expanded its runways and terminals to handle increasing passenger numbers.

Significant upgrades were made in the 2000s to modernise terminals and improve the passenger experience. It has remained a key transport hub on Florida’s east coast. Its location, about 2.5 miles west of downtown West Palm Beach, makes it easily accessible by road. The airport continues to develop, focusing on better services and infrastructure.

Terminals and Facilities

Palm Beach International Airport has a main terminal building with three concourses: Concourses A, B, and C. Each concourse handles different airlines and flights, with facilities including shops, restaurants, and lounges.

The airport offers basic amenities such as free Wi-Fi, parking options, rental car services, and ground transportation. Security is handled at the main terminal before passengers enter their respective gates. The layout is designed for easy movement, with clear signage and helpful staff.

The concourses vary in size, but all provide seating and boarding areas. The airport is medium-sized but well equipped to manage over 8 million passengers yearly, balancing convenience and capacity.

Airlines and Destinations

West Palm Beach Airport serves multiple major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest. These airlines offer flights to many key cities across the United States and select international locations.

Popular destinations include major hubs such as Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and Miami. The airport also offers seasonal and some international flights, connecting Palm Beach County to places in the Caribbean and Canada.

This variety lets travellers choose from direct or connecting flights for business or leisure travel. The ongoing growth in airline options reflects the region’s increasing demand for air travel and the airport’s role as a regional gateway. For more details, visit Palm Beach International Airport.

Getting To and Around the Airport

West Palm Beach Airport offers several choices for transport and parking, making it easy to reach or leave the airport. Facilities include public transit, parking areas, car hire, and rideshare services, all designed to suit different traveller needs.

Transport Options and Parking

Passengers can access the airport using public transport like Tri-Rail, which stops at West Palm Beach station near the airport. The station is located at 203 South Tamarind Avenue. Palm Tran buses also serve the area, offering regular routes to and from the airport.

PBI provides drivers multiple parking options: short-term, long-term, and economy lots are available. Parking garages are near terminals, with shuttle services linking economy parking to the main airport buildings. This makes parking convenient for both quick drop-offs and more extended stays.

Car Hire and Rideshare Services

Several car rental companies operate at West Palm Beach Airport, located inside the terminal or nearby. Travellers can reserve cars in advance or at counters on arrival.

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are officially allowed at the airport. Passengers can book rides through their apps and get picked up at designated areas outside the terminal. Taxi options like Metro Taxi are also available, and you can get direct phone access for bookings.

Directions and Accessibility

West Palm Beach Airport is easily reachable via major roads, including I-95 and Florida’s Turnpike. Clear signage guides drivers to terminals and parking zones.

The airport supports passengers with disabilities by offering accessible parking and shuttle services. Terminal entrances and facilities comply with accessibility standards to assist travellers with limited mobility. Transport services also cater to special needs when requested in advance.

For more details on ground transport, visit the PBI Ground Transportation Services page.

Passenger Services and Amenities

West Palm Beach Airport offers various services designed to make travel smoother and more comfortable. Passengers can find dining options, places to relax, ways to stay connected, and support for those requiring special assistance.

Dining and Shopping

The airport features several dining venues that cater to different tastes and needs. Passengers can choose from quick snacks, coffee shops, and sit-down restaurants, which allow for a variety of meals and refreshments before or after flights.

There are also gift shops and newsagents selling travel essentials, local souvenirs, and reading materials. Many shops stay open throughout the day to accommodate different flight schedules, making it easy for travellers to purchase last-minute items or gifts.

Lounges and Relaxation Areas

West Palm Beach Airport includes a VIP lounge called the Palm Beach International Airport Club. The lounge provides comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, and free Wi-Fi. It is designed for travellers who want a quieter, more relaxing environment.

Besides the lounge, there are seating areas throughout the terminal where passengers can rest or work. Some places offer charging stations for electronic devices, adding convenience for those needing to stay powered up.

Wi-Fi and Business Services

The airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. This service allows travellers to work, stream content, or stay in touch with friends and family. The connection is suitable for both casual browsing and essential work tasks.

For business travellers, there are areas with mobile charging points and quiet spaces to make calls or catch up on emails. These setups support effective time management while waiting for flights.

Special Assistance

West Palm Beach Airport provides special assistance services for passengers with disabilities or mobility challenges. Staff can help with boarding, luggage, and navigating the terminal.

The airport offers meet and greet services that include personalised support. These services help ensure a smoother experience for passengers needing extra care or those travelling with young children or elderly companions.

For more details on these services, visit Palm Beach Airport Meet and Greet Services.

Travel Tips for West Palm Beach Airport

West Palm Beach Airport offers straightforward travel options and good connections to the local area. To make the trip smoother, passengers should be aware of security rules, accommodation choices nearby, and interesting places close to the airport.

Security Procedures

West Palm Beach Airport passengers must arrive early, ideally two hours before domestic and three hours before international flights. A valid government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver’s licence, is mandatory.

The airport follows TSA guidelines closely. Liquids, gels, and aerosols are limited to containers of 100ml or less and must fit into a single clear, resealable bag. Electronics like laptops must be removed from bags for screening.

Passengers should remove belts, watches, and shoes before the scanner. To speed up the process, it is best to wear simple clothing. The airport has signs and staff to guide travellers through security quickly and safely.

Local Accommodation Options

Several hotels are within a short drive of the airport. Options include budget-friendly motels and mid-range hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn and Embassy Suites. These offer airport shuttle services and amenities such as free Wi-Fi and breakfast.

For longer stays, serviced apartments are available nearby. These apartments provide kitchen facilities and cater to families or business travellers. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Many hotels are located along Southern Boulevard and near I-95, providing easy access to the airport and the city centre. Taxi and ride-sharing services operate 24/7 for convenient transport to accommodations.

Nearby Attractions

West Palm Beach Airport is close to many popular sites. CityPlace is a well-known shopping and dining district only 10 minutes away by car. Visitors can enjoy outdoor markets, cafes, and live music.

For nature lovers, the Palm Beach Zoo and Mounts Botanical Garden are within a 20-minute drive. Both offer family-friendly activities and green spaces.

The Norton Museum of Art is also nearby, featuring modern and classical art exhibitions. Those interested in beaches can reach Palm Beach’s shoreline in about 20 minutes, making it easy to combine travel with leisure.

Travel Tips – Palm Beach International Airport provides more details on airport procedures.

Local Attractions

Palm Beach

Luxury beachfront town offering high-end shopping, fine dining, and iconic resorts.

Norton Museum of Art

A leading cultural institution featuring American, European, and contemporary art.

Clematis Street & Rosemary Square

Bustling dining and entertainment areas in downtown West Palm Beach.

Lion Country Safari

Drive-through safari park and adventure zoo west of the city.

PGA National Resort

World-class golf courses and a spa retreat are located just north of West Palm Beach.

Travel Tips

  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Winter (Dec–Apr): Peak travel season with dry, pleasant weather
    • Shoulder Seasons (May–Jun, Sep–Nov): Fewer crowds, lower rates
  • Additional Notes:
    • CBP services must be arranged in advance for international GA arrivals
    • Atlantic Aviation and Jet Aviation offer VIP lounges, crew facilities, and hangars
    • PBI is a popular airport for seasonal travel and corporate jets headed to Florida’s east coast
    • Excellent alternative to Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports for quick turnarounds

Palm Beach International Airport offers upscale, low-congestion access to Florida’s Gold Coast. With premium handling, modern infrastructure, and proximity to luxury destinations, PBI is a top choice for commercial and private aviation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Palm Beach International Airport offers regular flights from various airlines. Passengers can find updated information on arrivals, departures, and airport services. Weather and operational changes sometimes affect schedules.

What is the current flight schedule at West Palm Beach Airport?

Flight schedules at Palm Beach International Airport vary daily. Passengers can check specific departure times and destinations on the airport’s official website or through airline notifications.

How can I check the status of arrivals at West Palm Beach Airport?

Arrival status updates are available online. The airport’s official website provides live tracking of incoming flights, allowing travellers to monitor real-time arrival information.

Which airlines operate flights out of West Palm Beach Airport?

Several major airlines operate at the airport, including American Airlines, Delta, and United. These airlines offer flights to domestic and international locations.

How has recent weather impacted operations at West Palm Beach Airport?

Weather conditions sometimes cause delays or changes to flight schedules. Passengers are advised to check weather reports and airport updates to stay informed of any disruptions.

What facilities and services are available at West Palm Beach Airport?

The airport features multiple passenger resources, including dining options, retail stores, rental car services, and lounges. Security checkpoints are located at Concourse C and offer efficient screening.

Are there any updates on the reported closure of West Palm Beach Airport?

There are no current reports of a closure at Palm Beach International Airport. The facility remains open and operational with regular flights and services. For the latest news, passengers should refer to official announcements.

More details on Palm Beach International Airport resources can be found on the Palm Beach International Airport Guide.