Tampa Airport Targets South American Routes
Tampa International Airport plans to launch direct flights to São Paulo and Manchester by 2027, aiming to capture 30,000 Brazilian tourists and support local businesses. Current connections rely solely on Avianca to Bogotá.
Current Connections and Future Plans
Tampa International Airport currently maintains only one regular route to South America: Avianca's service to Bogotá. This single connection has created demand for alternative options, particularly for Brazilian travelers and business travelers linked to companies like Mosaic. The airport has announced plans to open direct flights to São Paulo and Manchester starting in 2027. These routes would represent the first non-Colombian connections from Tampa to South America.
Airlines in Consideration
LATAM Airlines emerges as the primary candidate for operating Brazil-bound routes. This choice stems from LATAM's existing alliance with Delta Air Lines, which provides connectivity through their network. The airport reports that LATAM's infrastructure and partnerships make it the most viable option for establishing new service. Alternative carriers include Azul and GOL, but both face operational challenges. Azul is undergoing restructuring that limits its capacity for long-haul routes, while GOL has concentrated its Brazilian operations in Orlando with wide-body aircraft that would not suit Tampa's terminal configuration.
Demand Drivers
The proposed routes target two key markets. First, the airport estimates it could attract approximately 30,000 Brazilian tourists annually to Tampa's coastal area. Second, the initiative aims to support local businesses by facilitating travel for employees of companies such as Mosaic. The mineral company's workers currently travel to Orlando's airport for connections to Brazil, creating a need for more direct Tampa-based options. Additionally, Alex Heiter, Tampa's director of air service development, highlights the growing Brazilian population already residing in Florida. Many of these residents maintain ties to the state and could use Tampa as a gateway to Brazil.
Challenges with Alternative Carriers
While Azul and GOL represent potential alternatives, their current situations create obstacles. Azul's international network restructuring reduces its ability to commit to new long-distance routes immediately. GOL's focus on Orlando with wide-body aircraft makes parallel operations in Tampa logistically difficult. These factors make LATAM the most promising candidate despite the need to negotiate terms with Delta through their alliance. The airport has not confirmed any agreements with LATAM as of the report, maintaining that discussions remain in progress.
The airport's strategy hinges on balancing tourist appeal with business travel needs. The 30,000 tourist estimate reflects both leisure travelers and Brazilian expatriates in Florida. Mosaic's workforce represents a separate but significant segment, as the company's operations in Florida require efficient travel solutions. Heiter emphasizes that the Brazilian community's established presence in the state creates unique opportunities for sustained demand.
The timeline for these routes remains set for 2027, with no immediate changes expected. Current operations continue through Avianca's Bogotá service while negotiations with potential carriers proceed. The success of this expansion will depend on finalizing partnerships and securing sufficient demand to justify the new routes.
