The Big Picture

Watch out during storm season - delays in deplaning and/or in baggage collection happen frequently when there's lightning around.

If there's any general information of note, you may type that here. Then update the URLs (for flightaware and fly.faa.gov just change the three-letter airport code in the URL) and their descriptions accordingly. The example below is for O'Hare (ORD).

Places to Eat

Places worth eating / getting a decent meal

• "F" series gates - a "Chili's Too" with the usual cut-down menu, and a full bar. The margaritas are always worth a shot, and usually make the next few hours in a plane that much more bearable. They're open 0700-2030. Additionally, and right next to the Chili's, you'll find a "Flatbreadz" (0500-1400 Mon-Sat & 0530-1800 Sun) and a "Chick-fil-a" (1000-1900 Mon-Sat, closed Sunday). The ubiquitous Starbucks is open 0445-1900.

Wifi

Where to find a wifi connection

• TPA Airport provides its own, free, Wifi.

Getting Through Security

Tips for getting through security quickly

• They WILL require you to take off your shoes. So just do so and get it over with.

Parking

Tips for parking at this airport

• Tampa Airport maintains a good web page on its parking - [http://www.tampaairport.com/parking/index.asp]. The "Cell Phone Lot" ([http://www.tampaairport.com/parking/cell_phone_lot_map.html]) is new, and useful if you're just picking someone up.

Getting a Cocktail

Where to find a good drink and atmosphere

• "F" series gates, "Chili's Too".

Clubs

Tips about frequent flyer clubs at this airport

• The Crown Room here is very nice and quite large. It has a view of the terminal and usually has fresh fruit and snacks.

Killing a few Hours

Ideas for how to spend a few hours of delay or layover

• Type notes here ...

Other Comments

Any other local commentary worth knowing about this airport

• TPA is located adjacent to the I-275 and SR-60, and there's some long-term work going on at that intersection. Plan your journey accordingly if you're going to be going to or from it by car during the usual "rush hours".