St. Pete/Clearwater Airport...what is this like?

[rapunzal]

What is it like flying into St. Pete/ CLearwater Airport? How far for WDW. Is it easy to get to? Thanks

 

[TammyC]

I haven't used this airport, but since nobody else answered I will tell you what I know, and get you bumped up for (hopefully) more info. We drove past it last November and it is small. We saw many small planes sitting around and some of those steps that they push up to the plane door when you get out!

 

[localdriver]

I've been by it as well. Small is generally EZ in and out.

I would estimate the drive at approx 85 miles or so.

275N to I4, then east to Disney exits 62, 65, 67.

 

[FamilyGuy]

In comparing potential flight plans, I came up with an intinerary which will save our family of 5 ~$195.

This includes flying USA 3000 airlines (assigned seating) and arriving and departing out of St. Pete/Clearwater. We rent a car anyways so I fgured it really wouldn't be a big issue. In my estimation it would be (at most) 1 extra hour in the car to get from this airport to WDW as opposed to flying in to Orlando(MCO).

I checked this itinerary last time we went and the rental car(s) seemed to be about $20-30 more for then entire stay even with coupons and codes. Figure and extra $10 in fuel, so the net savings is about $160 - $170.

I suppose if I asked if it was worth it, most would respond in telling me that our family should make the decision for ourselves. I've only flown SWA once, and I was by myslef (not the family of 5), I really do not care for the SWA "every man for himself" boarding procedure, but otherwise $160 - $170 won't blow the budget. If it was that tight I would just drive.

Anyone on these boards done this before and can offer some insight?

Any additional comments / tips / suggestions as to flying into or out of St Pete/Clearwater? Would you do it to save $160 - $170?

 

[Tiggerish]

I have flown in and out of the St. Pete/Clearwater airport with ATA a couple of times on family business. It is small but nice and very easy to get around in. The rental car places are all a shuttle bus ride away but most are within 5 minutes. I have used Alamo and I think we we in the car and driving less than a half hour after landing. Finding the way onto the expressway system was also pretty easy.

Since I was driving the opposite direction, towards Sarasota, I cannot help you with how the drive to WDW would be. But my parents drive from Sarasota to WDW in about 2 1/2 to 3 and that would include at least one "rest" stop.