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Noise Education Program

Introduction Planning and site selection for the airport began in 1973 and on Saturday, May 14, 1983, the Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) officially opened its doors. As one of the fastest growing airports in the nation, RSW is served by over two-dozen airlines and provides over $3 billion in regional economic impact each year.

The opening of the new Midfield Terminal Complex in September 2005 was a monumental improvement to the airport facilities. The 798,000 square foot, two-level terminal complex was architecturally designed for passenger comfort and convenience. With the utilization of a single runway, the airport has been experiencing record numbers of passengers and aircraft operations. In the Year 2005, RSW served over 7.5 million passengers and this significant growth is expected to continue.

To meet this demand, a second runway at the airport will be needed. The runway will be constructed in accordance with federal, state, and local regulations and is expected to be open sometime after the Year 2010.

Airport funding for projects such as the Midfield Terminal Complex and the new parallel runway are obtained through revenues generated by airport users and state and federal grant programs. Ad valorem tax dollars are not used to support airport expansion projects. Through the leadership of the Board of Port Commissioners and the Aiports Special Management Committee this regionally significant transportation element will continue to be one of the leading economic engines for our community while providing excellence in aviation services.

As a proactive approach, the Lee County Port Authority has created a new noise program, 24-hour noise comment telephone line and email address, and a dedicated full time employee to work with the community, pilots, FAA ATCT, and tenants to address noise issues.

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