Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport: Your Gateway to the Emerald Coast
Introduction
Located in the heart of Florida's Emerald Coast, Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is a busy facility connecting travelers to the region's beaches, culture, and fun. As the primary airport serving Destin and Fort Walton Beach, VPS is an essential part of the local economy and serves millions of passengers annually.
Airlines and Destinations
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is served by several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines. The airport has direct connections with a variety of destinations across the United States, which makes it an accessible gateway for thousands of travelers. Destin is tied to the major passenger hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas, and Chicago as well as more leisure destinations such as Las Vegas and Denver.
Number of Passengers and Flights
The facility is serving about 8,000 passengers daily, with around 80 flights frequently landing at or taking off from the airport. Overall, the number of passengers visiting Destin and Fort Walton Beach via VPS has been increasing over the past few years.
How to Get Here
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport is almost 16 miles away from Destin and takes approximately 25 minutes to get to. One can easily access the airport by car, with parking space available on site or in several off-airport lots nearby.
Parking
The airport has several parking options suitable for various travelers. The parking fee is $1.50 for the first 15-60 minutes, and there is a relatively cheap long-term parking for long trips. It is essential to remember that 100% disabled American veterans park free at VPS.
Transportation Prices
Alternatively, off-airport parking lots run shuttle services from and to the airport at fair prices. Taxi services to Destin will cost between $40-55 from VPS depending on the traffic and the number of passengers.
Terminal Layout
The Airport has one new terminal building with two floors, comprising two concourses, Concourse A for domestic flights and Concourse B reserved for international flights. The terminal is small but easy to navigate with clear signs to guide passengers to a gate or amenity.
Tips to navigate the airport
VPS is an easy-to-navigate airport with all the necessary amenities. However, during high seasons, the security lines can be long such that you may miss a flight; therefore, ensure you reach at least 90 minutes before your flight.
Getting Between Terminals
Passengers can easily move from Concourse A to Concourse B since the two concourses are located in one main terminal building; hence one can hardly get lost. While the travelers may access one concourse from the other inside, the concourses themselves are separated by the runway.
Services and Amenities
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport provides airport services and amenities to make travel better, such as free Wi-Fi, ATM points, dining and shopping options. It also has an Emerald Coast Bar & Grill restaurant where passengers can have a snack before boarding or a Caribou Coffee to wake up.
Restaurants and Shops
VPS is home to a variety of restaurants and shops to suit the diverse needs and tastes of our guests. From the casual atmosphere of Slick Micks to the quick bite offered in many of the terminal's cafes, the airport's eateries offer a variety of food and beverage choices. This includes convenience stores for those travelers seeking snacks, drinks, or small goods.
Security and Customs
The Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport makes every effort to ensure the safety and security of all passengers. The checkpoints feature both TSA and TSA Pre-Check, which expedite check-in for pre-approved travelers. Customs and immigration facilities are also in place for international flights direct to VPS.
Accessibility
At Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport, we are committed to providing a welcoming, accessible destination to all. Wheelchair mobility, parking, and other services are available for visiting passengers with mobility restrictions seeking additional assistance.
Traveler Tips
- Arrive at the airport with a minimum of 90 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure sufficient check-in and security time.
- Utilize the airport's free Wi-Fi to remain in touch and productive during your time at VPS.
- The diverse range of dining and shopping options will add to your time spent at the airport.
- Family-friendly facilities, including play areas and family rooms for nursing mothers, are available for children.