“The airlines are doing what we’d like them to do, which is increasing the size of the aircraft. It brings in more passengers and increases demand but does not increase the number of flights,” said Airport Executive Director Richard Strickland during a recent update to the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners.

 

Airline capacity will increase 20.8 percent in the first quarter of the year versus the first quarter of 2023. 

Key Points:

·      Airlines have scheduled an average of 33 flights per day​.

·      American Airlines will account for most of the seat growth, operating a second daily mainline A319 aircraft to Dallas/Fort Worth and extending the second flight through the summer. American will also operate a second daily flight to Washington’s Reagan airport on the 76-seat Embraer 175 and a fifth daily flight to Charlotte on the 76-seat EMB-175.

·      United is operating mainline 737-700 aircraft in Key West for the first time to Newark, Washington, Chicago and Houston.

·      Delta will operate new New York LaGuardia service on the 76-seat EMB-175​.

·      JetBlue will operate the larger mainline A220 to Boston.​

·      Silver will operate additional Orlando and Tampa flights​.

 

Concourse A Update

Key West International Airport’s Concourse A construction project is steadily moving forward with an end goal of enhancing service to passengers. Going into the New Year, the project stands at 35 percent completion as a result of the collective efforts of airport officials and Construction Manager NV2A Gulf Keystar JV. 

 

“This is a testament to the commitment and collaboration of the skilled workforce and local subcontractors,” said Luis Arditi-Rocha, Vice President of Infrastructure and Transportation at NV2A.

 

Local Partnerships: 

NV2A Gulf Keystar JV officials attribute the project’s success to the partnerships forged with local Key West subcontractors.  

 

“Their unwavering commitment to excellence and shared vision have been instrumental in bringing this ambitious project to life. The image captures a defining moment, where these subcontractors seamlessly coordinate their efforts onsite, symbolizing the unity driving the project forward,” said Robert A. Spotswood, Jr., NV2A Gulf Keystar JV Partner, adding each subcontractor, with their unique expertise contributes to the project's realization. “From excavation and foundation work to structural development, every element aligns harmoniously, showcasing the synchronized efforts that propel Concourse A towards completion.”

Milestones Achieved:  

Going into the New Year, the foundation and underground work for the East side continue with the last foundations and columns to support the second-floor slab coming soon. The structure is beginning to take shape.  

 

“The project's success is not just measured in bricks and mortar but in the collaborative spirit that has become the project's hallmark,” said Gilberto Neves, NV2A Gulf Keystar JV Partner. 

The journey has presented its share of challenges. Weather fluctuations, logistical complexities, and unexpected hurdles tested the resilience of all involved, Neves said, adding the team has overcome each obstacle, reinforcing the determination to see Concourse A through to completion. 

 

Looking Ahead: 

With new challenges ahead, NV2A Gulf Keystar JV officials said trade partners remain focused and energized. 

 

“The foundation has been set, both literally and metaphorically, and the momentum is building,” said John Scherer, NV2A Gulf Keystar JV Partner. “Concourse A is not just a construction project; it's a testament to the power of collaboration, local expertise, and unyielding determination. The image of three Key West subcontractors coordinating their efforts encapsulates the essence of this success story.”  

Concourse A is planned to be completed by 1Q 2025, and the project by 1Q 2026.