ST. LUCIE COUNTY – The St. Lucie Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce that Treasure Coast International Airport (TCIA) was awarded the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Part 139 Certificate. This significant achievement marks a milestone in the airport’s history and recognizes the commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, security and operational excellence.
“This is a historic moment for St. Lucie County. We started this formal process in April of 2023 and we now have the ability to provide commercial air service. A special thanks goes to the Board of County Commissioners for their direction, support and leadership,” said County Administrator George Landry. “This could not have been achieved without the efforts of our Airport Director Cameron Howard and the entire airport team. The staff at the airport from the maintenance crews to the administrative staff worked tirelessly to get the facility and airport ready for this certification. They are a great reflection of St. Lucie County. Our focus on the community, economic development and creating endless opportunities contributes to the success of everyone in St. Lucie County.”
The FAA Part 139 Certification opens significant opportunities for TCIA to attract commercial airlines and expand its services. Airlines seeking to operate at airports with the highest safety standards will now consider TCIA as a viable and attractive option. This certification also positions TCIA as a competitive player in the aviation industry, ready to meet the demands of growing air travel. With more commercial flights, residents and businesses in the Treasure Coast region will enjoy greater access to destinations, facilitating travel and commerce.
“After years of perseverance and unwavering dedication, our airport has officially earned its Part 139 Certification, opening the door to commercial service. This achievement is a testament to the resilience and hard work of our entire team, who never gave up on the dream. Today, we celebrate not just a certification, but a milestone that will transform our community and connect us to new opportunities,” said St. Lucie County Commission Chair Cathy Townsend.
The FAA Part 139 Certification is a rigorous and comprehensive certification process that ensures airports meet stringent federal safety standards. These standards cover various aspects of airport operations, including aircraft rescue and firefighting, wildlife hazard management, emergency planning and the overall condition of the airfield. The certification process involves thorough inspections and continuous compliance with FAA. With this certification, TCIA is now officially recognized to accommodate scheduled passenger-carrying operations by air carriers that operate aircraft with more than 30 seats. The certification also enhances the airport’s ability to support large charter services, cargo operations, and a variety of other aviation-related activities.
What is FAA Part 139 Certification?
Part 139 is a set of regulations administered by the FAA, requiring airports to comply with comprehensive safety and operational standards, including:
- Regular safety inspections
- Aircraft rescue and firefighting services
- Emergency planning and response coordination
- Wildlife hazard management
- Runway maintenance and lighting
These requirements are designed to ensure the safety of both passengers and crew during commercial flight operations.
Benefits of Certification for Treasure Coast International Airport
The certification allows TCIA to elevate its role in regional transportation, encouraging economic growth and making it a more attractive destination for airlines and travelers. Local businesses, tourism and the broader Treasure Coast community will benefit from increased air traffic, enhanced connectivity and improved access to domestic and potentially international flights. The airport’s improved capabilities as a Part 139-certified facility signal its readiness to accommodate new commercial carriers and aviation services while maintaining its commitment to safety and efficiency.
About Treasure Coast International Airport
The Treasure Coast International Airport (FPR), located at 3000 Curtis King Blvd. in Fort Pierce, is owned and operated by the St. Lucie County Board of County Commissioners. It spans 3,844 acres and is home to more than 70 tenants including aeronautic businesses such as aircraft maintenance and storage, a flight training school, air taxi and charter services, medical transport and now, through its Part 139 certification, it is certified to accommodate commercial airline services. The airport has a U.S. Customs & Border Protection Office and is designated within Foreign Trade Zone 218. Privately-owned businesses inside the airport employ more than 3,400 people, generating an estimated $509 million in economic impact annually, according to a study by the Florida Department of Transportation. It is a vital hub supporting local businesses, tourism, and economic development in the region. For more information, visit www.flytci.com.
Recent Comments