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Sarasota Bradenton Airport to reopen Wednesday after $10m damage caused by Hurricane Milton

The airport sustained damage to two sections of its roof, impacting the main concourse, security checkpoint, and gates

News Desk October 13, 2024

Ed Eckert surveys his neighborhood Saturday at Shady Haven Mobile Home Park in Englewood, Florida following Hurricane Milton. Eckert said he spent last winter remodeling his trailer and was looking forward to enjoying it this winter. He had just finished cleaning up from Hurricane Helene when Hurricane Milton came along two weeks later and moved his entire trailer, at left, twelve feet inland. His neighbor's trailer was completely destroyed. Photo : Mike Lang / Sarasota Herald-Tribune

Strong winds from Hurricane Milton have caused significant damage to both the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport and SeaPort Manatee, prompting ongoing repairs.

The airport sustained damage to two sections of its roof, impacting the main concourse, security checkpoint, and gates. Airport CEO Rick Piccolo stated, "I think we have at least $10 million worth of damage, if not more."

Passenger flights are expected to resume by Wednesday morning, while private aviation is already operational.

Meanwhile, SeaPort Manatee was closed due to a power outage but has reopened to ship traffic with restrictions from the US Coast Guard.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said there are contingency plans to ensure fuel supply, including deliveries from Tampa and Everglades. “Wouldn't it be good if we got SeaPort Manatee up and running as soon as possible?” he added.