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Hollywood Florida Airport has a few solid options for international travelers who want convenience and decent service. It’s mostly known for domestic routes, but you’ll still find airlines here that can get you to major international spots.
The best international airlines at Hollywood Florida Airport include JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. They offer direct flights to popular places in the Caribbean, Central America, and a bit beyond.
These airlines keep things affordable and run frequent routes, which is honestly a big draw for folks who want to skip the chaos of bigger airports.
If you’re after easy access to international flights and want to avoid the headache of massive terminals, Hollywood Florida Airport is a breath of fresh air. It’s just less crowded, check-ins are usually quicker, and the whole vibe feels more relaxed than the mega-hubs nearby.
Key Takeaways
- You can find good international flight options at Hollywood Florida Airport.
- Several airlines offer affordable and frequent routes to nearby countries.
- The airport offers a smoother experience compared to larger airports nearby.
Overview of International Airlines at Hollywood Florida Airport
You’ll spot several airlines running international flights out of Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). These carriers connect you to destinations all over the Americas—and a bit further if you dig into the schedules.
Their services differ in comfort, frequency, and where they actually go.
Major Carriers Operating International Routes
At FLL, JetBlue, Spirit Airlines, and Southwest Airlines are your main international options. JetBlue is a favorite for trips to the Caribbean and Latin America.
Spirit Airlines is for the budget-minded, mostly heading to Central and South America.
Delta and American Airlines do offer international flights, but it’s usually via connections through their bigger hubs. WestJet is your go-to for Canada, with flights up to Toronto and Calgary.
Allegiant Air is mostly domestic, with just a minor role in international travel here.
International Destinations Served
From FLL, you can reach key spots like:
- Cancún, Mexico
- Havana and Punta Cana in the Caribbean
- Bogotá, Colombia
- Panama City, Panama
WestJet mainly covers Canada, with flights to cities like Toronto and Calgary.
These routes work for vacations, family visits, and business trips alike.
Comparison of Airline Services
When you’re picking an airline, think about cost, comfort, and flight times. Spirit is usually the cheapest, but they tack on fees for extras.
JetBlue’s got more legroom and free snacks, which is pretty nice if you’re flying longer distances.
Southwest is straightforward—two free checked bags—but doesn’t have as many international routes from FLL.
Delta and American Airlines offer things like first-class seats, but you’ll probably have to connect, which can add a chunk of time to your trip.
Key Services and Amenities for International Passengers
After you land at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, there are a few services that can make your trip smoother. Baggage handling, ground transportation, and ticketing are all set up with convenience in mind.
Baggage Claim and Customs Experience
Baggage claim is usually easy to navigate, with signs that actually make sense. Multiple carousels serve international flights, so your luggage shouldn’t take forever.
Customs and immigration can get busy, but staff do their best to keep things moving. There are family restrooms and nursing rooms nearby, which is a thoughtful touch.
Water fountains are scattered throughout the terminals, so staying hydrated isn’t a problem. Need to stash your bags for a bit? Baggage storage is available if you want to explore before heading out.
Airport Shuttles and Ground Transportation
Getting around after your flight is pretty straightforward. Free shuttles run between terminals and parking areas.
There are also shuttles to hotels and rental car centers, which is handy. Ride-share pickups and taxis are easy to spot outside the arrivals zone.
If you’re watching your budget, look for shared ride shuttles or public transportation into Fort Lauderdale or the nearby cities.
Ticketing and Fare Options
Buying tickets here is flexible. You can go old-school at the airline counters or use kiosks for a quicker check-in.
Some lounges and clubs offer day passes if you want to chill before your flight. For the best prices, booking online ahead of time is usually your best bet.
Airlines sometimes run promos at the airport booths—worth asking if you’re hoping for a last-minute deal or an upgrade.
How Hollywood Florida Airport Compares to Regional Alternatives
Hollywood Florida Airport (FLL) has its own perks compared to nearby airports like Miami (MIA) or Palm Beach (PBI). There are fewer direct international flights, but it’s often just easier to get in and out.
Your choice depends on what’s most important to you—convenience, airline variety, or flight frequency.
Access to Nearby Airports
FLL is right by Fort Lauderdale, so if you’re in northern Broward County, it’s a no-brainer. Miami International (MIA) is about 30 miles south, and Palm Beach International (PBI) is roughly 45 miles north.
If you hate traffic, FLL might save you some time compared to the drive down to MIA. Orlando International (MCO) and Tampa International are way further north—usually a flight away unless you love long road trips. Newark Liberty (EWR) is up the East Coast but is a big hub for Florida flights.
Connection Options to Florida Destinations
FLL has a lot of domestic flights, especially around Florida and the eastern U.S. It’s served by low-cost and international airlines.
Miami (MIA) has way more international options and frequent flights. If you’re headed to central Florida or the theme parks, Orlando International (MCO) is better.
Tampa International (TPA) is for the west coast of Florida. Palm Beach (PBI) is smaller and less hectic, which some people love. Key West International is really just for getting to the Keys—not for international or mainland connections.
| Airport | Key Strength | Distance from FLL |
|---|---|---|
| Miami (MIA) | More international flights | ~30 miles south |
| Palm Beach (PBI) | Smaller, less crowded | ~45 miles north |
| Orlando (MCO) | Central Florida access | 200+ miles north |
| Tampa (TPA) | West coast Florida access | 250+ miles northwest |
| Key West Intl | Florida Keys flights | Not a substitute for intl. |
Advantages for International Travelers
If you’re focused on international travel, Miami International (MIA) usually offers more flight choices. The airport’s big, and it’s set up for global connections.
FLL doesn’t have as many direct international flights, but it does serve a handful of major cities. Parking’s easier there, and the lines? Usually shorter.
Miami’s the go-to if you want lots of airlines or nonstop flights to Europe, South America, or even Asia. But honestly, Fort Lauderdale often works better for trips to the Caribbean or some Latin American spots.
You might catch a break on price too—FLL sometimes has cheaper or low-cost carriers on international routes.
If you’re not picky about destinations or just want to avoid crowds, FLL’s simplicity can be a relief. Palm Beach and Orlando don’t really compete on international service, though they do offer a few limited routes if you’re flexible.