Fort Lauderdale Airports Travel Guide

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Cassidy Rush is a writer with a background in careers, business, and education. She covers international finance news and stories for Remitly.

Key Highlights

Fort Lauderdale has two main airports. These are Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) for commercial flights, and Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) for private flights.
FLL is the most important airport for local and international flights. It is only three miles away from both downtown Fort Lauderdale and Port Everglades.
The Executive Airport is there for business and private planes. People who fly charter flights use this airport too.
Getting around in Fort Lauderdale is easy. There are many transportation options at both airports.
This guide helps you move between the airports. It makes your travel experience in Fort Lauderdale better.

Introduction

Welcome to sunny South Florida! It is easy to get where you need to go, and everything begins at the airport. Fort Lauderdale has the handy Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). That puts you in the middle of what is happening here. You may be coming for the beaches, to go on a cruise, or to work. This guide shows you everything about the airports in the area. It helps you plan your trip without any trouble. Your fort lauderdale journey starts right here.

Overview of Fort Lauderdale’s Airports

When you fly into Fort Lauderdale, you have two main airport choices in the city. The first is Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), which is the big airport for commercial flights. It is also one of the busiest airports in the United States for both domestic and international travel. The other is Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE), which is used for other types of flights.

If you want more flight options, you can look at other big airports close by, like Miami International Airport (MIA) and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI). These also serve the region and give you more ways to get in or out. Still, for most people, the best and easiest way to reach places in Broward County is through FLL. Now, let’s take a look at what makes the city’s airports different and see what Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport has to offer.

Differences Between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International and Executive Airports

The main difference between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport is how they are used. FLL is the big airport the public uses. Most people who travel each year go through this airport on well-known airlines. If you book a flight with Spirit, JetBlue, or American, you will end up at FLL.

On the other hand, the Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) is a general aviation airport. It does not offer regular commercial airline flights. FXE is there for private planes, companies, and charter flights. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says that FXE supports business flights, teaching people to fly, and other private needs.

This is something you should know when you plan to travel to fort lauderdale. Both airports are on airport property in the city, but the one you use depends on how you want to fly. If you use FXE, you get special services for general aviation that commercial passengers at FLL do not get.

Which Airport to Choose for Your Travel Needs

Picking the right airport for your trip to Fort Lauderdale is easy. For most people, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is the best choice. This is the main airport for the area. It connects you to places all over the country and even around the world. Almost all commercial flights use this airport.

Fort Lauderdale International Airport is built to help large groups move quickly. There are a lot of places to eat, shop, and relax. People say the travel experience here is good. The airport is always getting bigger and better to welcome more people and flights each year.

You will want to choose Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport if you:

Are flying with a big airline, like Southwest, Delta, or Spirit.
Are going overseas on a planned flight.
Want quick ways to get to cruise ships and local tourist spots.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) Essentials

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is a main choice for easy travel in South Florida. The airport has modern amenities and an easy-to-follow layout. FLL is a primary gateway for people who fly inside the country or to other places in the world. It sits close to downtown Fort Lauderdale and offers many transportation options. You can use the rental car center or catch a ride with Broward County Transit.

The airport works hard to make your travel experience better. There are things like family restrooms to help, and you can use a comprehensive guide to get around the concourses. FLL is there to make your trip smoother and more comfortable.

Airlines Operating at FLL

Many major airlines fly from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. This makes it a busy spot for people who want to travel. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines give great domestic flights. You can get direct flights with them to many big places in the United States. Southwest Airlines and Spirit Airlines are there, too. They help people who want to save money when they fly.

If you want to travel outside the country, you can use Alaska Airlines and Air Canada. These airlines help people with different travel needs. The wide range of choices at this airport makes it a top gateway in South Florida.

Domestic and International Destinations from FLL

You can fly to many places within the country and outside from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Many people pick nonstop flights here to big cities like New York, Tampa, and Chicago. This makes it an easy spot to travel from in south Florida. If you want to fly to international destinations, you can find flights to Latin America, Europe, and even Canada.

The airport has modern amenities and different transportation options. So, this place makes your travel experience smooth. FLL works as the primary gateway in south Florida for both fun trips and work trips.

Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) Insights

While FLL takes care of commercial flights, Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport (FXE) is the main place for general aviation in Broward County. FXE is one of the busiest airports for general aviation in the United States. It is a key spot for private pilots, people who fly corporate jets, and charter planes. The airport is managed by the Federal Aviation Administration, and it gives the tools and help needed for private aircraft operations.

There is a U.S. Customs office here with longer hours, so it is easier for people to fly in and out of the country on private flights. FXE also has a very good control tower and up-to-date buildings. These make the airport perfect for a different kind of traveler. Next, we will look at the services at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport and the key operators who work there.

Commercial vs. Private Flight Services at FXE

Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport is different from commercial airports. It is only for general aviation. The Federal Aviation Administration does not let big airlines or regional airlines fly to or from here. You cannot buy a ticket on a commercial airline to get to or leave from FXE.

This airport is made for private flights. The people who use it include those flying corporate jets, people who own small planes, and those who book on-demand charter flights. If you have a charter plane or your own aircraft, FXE is the place in Fort Lauderdale for you. The services at the airport are made for private operators and their travelers.

Because it does not have big crowds or busy airline schedules, FXE gives a smoother and more personal trip experience. The airport is important for Fort Lauderdale. It also helps people and companies in nearby areas like Pompano Beach and greater Fort Lauderdale.

Popular Fixed Base Operators and Jet Centers

Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport is the place to go for a great general aviation travel experience in South Florida. The airport has four main Fixed Base Operators, or FBOs, that take care of planes, pilots, and passengers in their own private areas. These FBOs handle things like fueling planes, doing repairs, cleaning, and making sure people have comfy lounges and rides on the ground.

These jet centers help keep everything running well at the airport so your travel goes smoothly. The people there are known for their top-notch care and always make sure guests are happy. That’s a big part of what makes flying in and out of Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport different than using big, busy airports. Here, you get more privacy and comfort.

The main FBOs serving Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport are:

Banyan Air Service
Signature Aviation
Atlantic Aviation
W Aviation

Terminals and Facilities at FLL

Moving around the terminals at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is easy for people. The FLL airport has four different terminals. Each one has its own concourses, airlines, and other services. There are many signs around the airport property, so you can find your way from the ticket counter to the security checkpoint and your gate without much trouble.

If you leave from Concourse B or get in at Concourse G, you will see that there are many things to help you enjoy your trip. Now, we will look at what each terminal at fort lauderdale has for people, including simple services, food places, and shops.

Terminal Overview and Passenger Services

Each terminal at FLL has what you need to make your trip easy. Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4 have ticket counters, spots to get your bags, and TSA security checkpoint areas. Clear signs will guide you so you know where to go, even when it’s busy during peak travel times.

After you pass through the security checkpoint, each concourse gives you places to relax before you fly. The things you need are close to the gates, so you won’t have far to walk.

Key passenger services that you will find in the terminals are:

Ticketing and check-in counters
Baggage claim carousels
TSA security screening
Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport
Information desks and customer service

Dining, Shopping, and Lounges

At FLL, you get more than just the basics. The airport has a great mix of dining, shopping, and lounge options to make your travel day better. If you want a fast snack or would like to sit down for a meal, there are many local and national food places to choose from. You will find lots of modern amenities too, such as many stores where you can buy things you need, souvenirs, or gifts.

If you are looking for a quiet spot to relax or need to work, there are some lounges at FLL. Some belong to airlines. Others can be used if you have a Priority Pass. Inside these lounges, you will find seats that are comfortable, free snacks and drinks, and a calm place away from the crowd.

Some of the amenities you can enjoy include:

A wide range of restaurants and cafes
Duty-free shops and retail stores
Airline-affiliated lounges
Access to lounges via Priority Pass
Charging stations for electronic devices

Ground Transportation From Fort Lauderdale Airports

When you get to the Fort Lauderdale airport, you will see many ways to travel to your next stop. The airport has good links to the area around it. You can take public transit or book a private car. The Rental Car Center at FLL has a lot of rental car companies all in one easy spot.

No matter if you will go to a hotel in downtown Fort Lauderdale, Port Everglades for a cruise, or you need to get to Miami International Airport, there is a way for you to get there. You can pick a way that fits your money and your time. Here, we look at good ways to go to downtown Fort Lauderdale and the cruise port close by.

Options to Downtown Fort Lauderdale and Surrounding Areas

Getting from FLL to downtown Fort Lauderdale or other places nearby is quick and simple. The airport is just a few miles from the city center. This means you get into the heart of Fort Lauderdale fast in any way you pick to travel. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft wait for you outside each terminal in easy-to-find pickup spots.

If you want a cheaper way to go, use public transportation. The Broward County Transit bus route, with Route 1, takes you straight from the airport to the main bus terminal in downtown Fort Lauderdale. From there, you can reach the rest of the city with the Broward County Transit buses.

Your choices for ground transportation include:

Taxis that are ready all day and night.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft with pickup zones outside the terminals.
Rental cars from the Rental Car Center at the airport.
Broward County Transit public bus service with the Broward County Transit bus route.

Getting to the Cruise Port and Miami

Many people who land at FLL are on their way to Port Everglades to start a cruise trip. The cruise port is only a few miles away from the airport. This makes getting there fast and easy. There are many private shuttle companies that drive between the airport and the cruise terminals. The airport does not run a free shuttle service, but some hotels and private parking businesses have deals that include a shuttle.

If you need to get to Miami, you have a few transportation options. The quickest way is by car—this could be a rental, a taxi, or a rideshare. The drive can take about 45 minutes, but that depends on traffic. You can also take public transit. There is the Tri-Rail commuter train that can help you save some money if you want a cheaper trip.

Here are some ways to get to the port or Miami:

Private shuttles and taxis to Port Everglades.
Rideshare services to the cruise port or Miami.
Rental cars if you want to travel whenever you want between cities.
Shared-ride vans if you need a transfer that costs less.

These transportation options can make your travel to Port Everglades or Miami easy and smooth, even if you are looking for a free shuttle service.

Parking and Car Rental Services

If you are going to the Fort Lauderdale airport by car, you will see many parking choices. There is short-term parking if you want to do a fast drop-off. There is also long-term parking if you need to leave your car for many days. The parking garages are close to the airport terminals. You can also use off-site lots if you want to pay less money.

If you fly in and need a car, the Rental Car Center at Fort Lauderdale airport is where you can go. All the big car rental companies are in one place, so it is easy to get or return a car. The next parts below talk more about these services.

Short-Term and Long-Term Parking Information

FLL provides ample on-site parking across multiple garages located directly on airport property. You can choose between short-term parking, ideal for seeing off travelers, and long-term parking for when you’re away on a trip. The garages are connected to the terminals, offering covered and convenient access.

For more budget-conscious travelers, several off-airport parking lots are located nearby. These facilities, like Park by the Ports and Air and Sea Parking, often provide lower daily rates and offer free shuttle service directly to your terminal. It’s a good idea to book these online in advance for the best rates.

Here’s a general overview of the on-site parking options:

Parking Option	Best For	Location
Short-Term Parking	Hourly stays, pickups	Garages near terminals
Long-Term Parking	Overnight and multi-day trips	Garages near terminals
Overflow Parking	Peak travel times	Designated surface lots
Off-Site Parking	Budget-friendly long-term stays	Various lots near FLL

Rental Cars and Alternative Mobility Options

The Rental Car Center at FLL makes it easy for you to get your own car. This place has more than a dozen car rental companies in one spot. You can pick up the car you want after a short shuttle ride from the airport terminals. Having a rental car helps you see Fort Lauderdale and south Florida when you want. You are free to go where you like in the area.

If you do not want to rent a car, there are other ways to get around. Rideshare services are a popular way for people to travel. You can quickly get a ride from the airport using these on-demand options. Taxis are also there if you want a more classic choice.

If you want to save money or travel like someone from broward county, think about these options:

Rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft.
Traditional taxi services.
Public transportation by broward county transit.
Private shuttle services that go to hotels or cruise ports.

Amenities and Accessibility Features

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport works hard to give every person a smooth and easy travel experience. The airport has many modern amenities so everyone can feel comfortable. There is free Wi-Fi to help you stay online. The art that the airport shows can brighten your day while you wait. FLL wants your time at the airport to be good.

The airport cares about accessibility. There are many services set up for people who have disabilities or travel with family. At FLL, you will find family restrooms, service animal relief zones, and accessible paths in all terminals. These features help every traveler move around the airport with comfort and respect.

With the mix of nice amenities and strong accessibility, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport offers a friendly spot for every guest. Up next, we’ll look closer at the features FLL has to help everyone.

Accessibility Services and Family-Friendly Facilities

FLL gives all the accessibility help to make travel easier for people with disabilities or who need help to move around. The terminals are set up so you can get around easily. There are ramps, elevators, and restrooms that everyone can use. Airlines will help you with a wheelchair from the curb to your gate, and you can ask for this help when you book your flight.

When families go with young kids, the airport has lots of family-friendly things. Family restrooms are in all the terminals. They are private and big enough for parents who want to care for their little ones. These modern amenities help make travel with kids less stressful.

Key accessibility and family-friendly features include:

Wheelchair assistance provided by airlines.
Accessible parking spaces in all airport garages.
Spacious family restrooms located in each terminal.
Service animal relief areas for traveling pets.

Conclusion

In the end, getting around Fort Lauderdale’s airports can be simple and stress-free when you have the right details. You have learned about both Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International and Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. Now you know how these two airports are different, what services you get, and what transportation options you can use. Both airports offer good places to eat and shop. They also have things that make it easy for everyone to get around.

This guide will help you get ready for your trip. It can make your travel experience smooth from when you arrive until you leave. Remember to use all the tips and help available, and enjoy your visit to sunny Fort Lauderdale! If you want personalized help, you can reach out to us and get a free consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport from downtown?

Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport sits about five miles north of downtown Fort Lauderdale. The airport has a Downtown Helistop, so you get easy helicopter rides right into the city’s business center. Because it is in Broward County, the airport is a top spot for private aircraft operations.

Is there shuttle service from Fort Lauderdale airport to the cruise port?

There are many transportation options to get from Fort Lauderdale Airport to Port Everglades. You will not find a free shuttle service that everyone can use, but many private shuttle companies can take you there. Taxis and rideshare cars are also easy to get. The trip is quick, since it is only about three miles from the airport to the cruise port.

What’s the fastest way to get from Fort Lauderdale to Miami?

The fastest way to travel from Fort Lauderdale to Miami is by car. You can drive your own car, rent one, or use a taxi or rideshare. The trip takes about 45 minutes, but can be longer if there is traffic. There are transportation options like public transportation, such as Tri-Rail. But driving a car is still the quickest and most direct way to go.