Tampa International Airport shuttle cars are getting an exciting upgrade. The airport is preparing to roll out brand-new shuttle vehicles to carry travelers between the main terminal and the gate areas. These small trains, called shuttle cars, have been a signature feature of the airport for decades. Now, modern replacements are almost ready to take passengers on a smoother, faster ride.
Why Replace the Old Shuttle Cars?
The current shuttle cars were built in the late 1980s and started service in the 1990s. They have been running for nearly 25 years, traveling back and forth so much that it adds up to about 1 million miles! These older vehicles have served the airport well, but after decades of use, it’s time for a replacement with newer technology.
Investing in a Better Shuttle System
Tampa International Airport is investing in this shuttle car replacement project to improve reliability and comfort. The upgrade will cost about $61 million. The price is being paid with special airport funds (bonds) and help from state grants. It’s a big investment, but it will keep passengers moving smoothly for years to come.
Final Testing Before Launch
Right now, the new shuttle cars are in their final testing stage. They are at an Alstom production facility near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Alstom is the same company that built the airport’s first shuttles many years ago. Once testing is finished, the new vehicles will be delivered to Tampa later this year, ready to start service.
Excitement for the Next Generation Shuttles
Airport officials are thrilled about the upcoming shuttles. “Our current shuttle cars were designed and engineered in the late ’80s and have performed admirably over their nearly 25-year life span at our airport,” said Matthew Deloatche, a senior manager at the airport. “Knowing how vital these cars are to the success of our facility, we are ecstatic to unveil the next generation of TPA’s transit to our guests and the Tampa Bay community.” In other words, the team is very excited to introduce the next-generation shuttles to travelers and the local community.
Preparing the Tracks for New Cars
Behind the scenes, workers have been preparing the tracks for the new shuttles. They replaced old parts and refreshed the concrete guideways (the concrete tracks that the shuttles travel on). During this work, each terminal area only had a single shuttle car running so one track at a time could be closed for repairs. Now the tracks are ready, and the airport is set for the arrival of the new vehicles.
More New Shuttles on the Way
And it doesn’t stop with Airside A and C – more new shuttle cars are on the way for other parts of the airport too. The airport has already ordered new vehicles for Airside E and for the upcoming Airside D (a new terminal under construction). Airside F currently has the newest shuttles, so its cars will be replaced later when needed. This means eventually all the terminal shuttles at Tampa’s airport will be updated to the latest models.
Travelers and locals alike are eager to see these new shuttle cars in action. They promise a faster and smoother trip between the terminal and gates. Are you excited to ride on the upgraded shuttles? It’s an exciting change coming soon to Tampa International Airport!
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