Peter O. Knight Airport

Peter O. Knight Airport Tampa: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled on the scenic Davis Islands just minutes from downtown Tampa, Peter O. Knight Airport is a living testament to the city’s rich aviation past and its vibrant present. Established in 1935 as a Works Progress Administration (WPA) project, the airport has evolved from Tampa’s first commercial aviation hub to a thriving center for general aviation, community events, and aviation education. Today, Peter O. Knight Airport welcomes pilots, history enthusiasts, and visitors seeking panoramic views, access to Tampa’s top attractions, and a unique window into the city’s heritage. This comprehensive guide details everything you need for a memorable visit—from practical access tips and historical background to special events and nearby attractions. (Old Tampa Photos, Living New Deal, Tampa International Airport)

Introduction
Historical Overview
Visiting Peter O. Knight Airport: Practical Information
Events, Community Engagement, and Unique Experiences
Nearby Tampa Attractions
Photography, Plane Spotting, and Scenic Views
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Final Tips
References

Historical Overview

Early Development and WPA Legacy

Peter O. Knight Airport was constructed in 1935 as part of the WPA’s efforts to boost local infrastructure and employment during the Great Depression. Named after Peter Oliphant Knight, a prominent Tampa attorney and businessman, the airport featured a distinctive Art Deco terminal, a seaplane basin, and three runways in an asterisk pattern, providing vital access for both land and amphibious aircraft. Its waterfront location offered strategic and scenic advantages, attracting travelers and aviators alike. (Old Tampa Photos, Living New Deal)

Commercial Hub Years

From 1935 to 1946, Peter O. Knight Airport was Tampa’s main commercial airport. Airlines like Eastern and National Airlines operated from its runways, and its seaplane basin reflected the era’s fascination with amphibious aviation. Its proximity to downtown Tampa made it especially valuable for business travel, strengthening the city’s role as a growing aviation center. (Tampa International Airport, TampaPix)

Transition to General Aviation

As aircraft technology advanced, runways at Peter O. Knight proved too short for new, larger commercial airliners. After a 1946 crash and increasing infrastructure limitations, commercial operations shifted to Drew Field (now Tampa International Airport). The airport then transitioned to general aviation, focusing on private, business, and recreational flying. The original terminal was replaced in 1965, and the seaplane basin remained a unique feature for occasional special events and private seaplane flights. (Wikipedia)

Modern Facilities and Community Impact

Today, the airport spans 110 acres and features two well-maintained asphalt runways (4/22 at 3,580 ft and 18/36 at 2,688 ft). Atlas Aviation serves as the Fixed Base Operator (FBO), providing pilot services and visitor amenities. Despite its small size, Peter O. Knight Airport is a vital hub for flight training, business aviation, and community events, hosting educational programs and annual celebrations such as the Girls Achieving Leadership in Aviation (GALA) event, which supports women in aviation. The airport’s resilience has been tested by hurricanes (including Helene and Milton in 2024), but rapid recovery and ongoing improvements reflect its importance to the Tampa community. (TPA News, GlobalAir)

Visiting Peter O. Knight Airport: Practical Information

Hours and Access

General Aviation Operations: Daily from dawn to dusk
Administrative and FBO Hours: Typically 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM (check ahead for holiday or event variations)
Public Areas: The terminal and designated observation spots are open to visitors. Runways and hangars are restricted for safety.

Ticketing and Tours

Admission: No general ticket required; public access is free for non-commercial visits.
Special Events: Some events (e.g., GALA, airshows) may require advance tickets or registration.
Tours: No regularly scheduled guided tours, but public events offer opportunities to explore and interact with aviation professionals.

Getting There and Parking

Address: 825 Severn Ave, Tampa, FL 33606
By Car: Easily accessible from downtown Tampa via Davis Islands Bridge; clear signage provides guidance.
Parking: Free public parking adjacent to the terminal, including accessible spaces.
Rideshare/Taxi: Convenient options for rapid access; no direct public transit stop.

Accessibility

Facilities: ADA-compliant with ramps, accessible restrooms, and designated parking.
Assistance: Visitors needing special accommodations should contact the airport office or FBO in advance.

Amenities and Services

Terminal: Comfortable pilot lounge, flight planning room (with weather computers), restrooms, vending machines, and a conference room.
FBO (Atlas Aviation): Aircraft fueling (100LL Avgas, Jet-A), tie-downs, hangar rentals, maintenance, pilot supplies, and ground transportation assistance.
Security and Safety: Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS), security fencing, and established noise abatement procedures.

Events, Community Engagement, and Unique Experiences

Peter O. Knight Airport is a hub for Tampa’s aviation community and regularly hosts:

GALA (Girls Achieving Leadership in Aviation): Annual event supporting women in aviation with scholarships, networking, and inspiring speakers.
Islands Fest: Community festival featuring aircraft displays, family activities, and local vendors.
Fly-ins and Aviation Education: Local flight schools and clubs offer introductory flight lessons, sightseeing tours, and career events.
Special Gatherings: Occasional airshows, charity flights, and educational programs for schools and community groups.

These events provide unique opportunities for the public to explore aviation, view aircraft up close, and engage with pilots and aviation professionals. (TPA News)

Nearby Tampa Attractions

Peter O. Knight Airport’s strategic location makes it an excellent launching point for exploring Tampa’s top historical and cultural sites:

Davis Islands Beach and Dog Park: Relax by the bay or enjoy green space with your pet.
Tampa Riverwalk: A scenic promenade connecting downtown’s museums, parks, and entertainment.
Ybor City: Historic district known for its Cuban heritage, cigar factories, and nightlife.
Tampa Bay Hotel / University of Tampa: Iconic Moorish Revival architecture and a museum chronicling the city’s past.
Florida Aquarium and Amalie Arena: Family-friendly attractions just minutes away.
Bayshore Boulevard: The world’s longest continuous sidewalk, ideal for exercise and waterfront views.

Dining options abound on Davis Islands and downtown Tampa, with local favorites including the classic Cuban sandwich. (Barefoot Caribou)

Photography, Plane Spotting, and Scenic Views

Peter O. Knight Airport is a favorite destination for photographers and plane spotters. With its waterfront setting, visitors can capture striking images of aircraft taking off and landing against the backdrop of downtown Tampa and Hillsborough Bay. Designated observation areas and nearby parks provide safe and scenic vantage points, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Peter O. Knight Airport’s visiting hours?
A: Generally dawn to dusk for public access; administrative offices and the FBO operate roughly 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Q: Is there an admission fee or ticket required?
A: No general admission fee; some special events require tickets or registration.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Not regularly, but public events often include tours or aircraft displays.

Q: Is parking available and accessible?
A: Yes, free parking (including accessible spaces) is available near the terminal.

Q: Is the airport accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, with ramps, accessible restrooms, and helpful staff.

Q: Are there flight schools or aviation clubs at the airport?
A: Yes, several flight schools and clubs operate at Peter O. Knight Airport.

Q: How do I get to downtown Tampa from the airport?
A: By car or rideshare, it’s a 5–10 minute drive across the Davis Islands Bridge.

Summary and Final Tips for Visiting Peter O. Knight Airport

Peter O. Knight Airport stands as a vital, welcoming gateway to Tampa’s past and present. Its historic roots, scenic setting, and community-focused atmosphere make it a top destination for aviation enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers exploring Tampa’s rich cultural landscape. With modern amenities, essential pilot services, and easy access to downtown, visitors can enjoy everything from plane spotting and flight lessons to festivals and historical exploration.

Final Tips:

Check current visiting hours and event schedules before your trip.
Utilize the free on-site parking or convenient rideshare services for easy access.
Bring a camera or binoculars for plane spotting and panoramic bay views.
Explore nearby attractions like Ybor City, the Tampa Riverwalk, and Bayshore Boulevard.
Download the Audiala app for real-time airport updates, event notifications, and travel tips.

Peter O. Knight Airport is more than just an airport—it’s a living piece of Tampa’s aviation story, ready to welcome you for a memorable visit. (TPA News, Wikipedia, Barefoot Caribou)