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Is It Better To Fly American Or Southwest To South Florida From Tampa?

I flew from Tampa International Airport this week to South Florida. Is it better to fly Spirit Airlines and go to Fort Lauderdale? Or is it better to fly American…

Is It Better To Fly American Or Southwest To South Florida From Tampa?

I flew from Tampa International Airport this week to South Florida. Is it better to fly Spirit Airlines and go to Fort Lauderdale? Or is it better to fly American into Miami International Airport?

The first answer is to select the flight that's cheaper. It's a quick flight so figure out where you'll save the most money based on where in South Florida you have to travel to (adding up airline ticket and ground transportation). But with those factors being equal, which option is better?

Which Airline Is Better?

This was a toss-up because I enjoy both Spirit and American for different reasons. Spirit Airlines flight attendants are friendly and the whole experience feels professional, but I'm never going to be a huge fan of the "find your own seat" deal. I've always had great experiences on American. Everything thing feels professional and top-notch.

Which Airside Is Better At Tampa International Airport?

I'm definitely going with Airside F (which is what you fly out of) rather than Airside C. I prefer the restaurants and look of Airside F. And security at Airside C always seems to be jammed.

Which Airport Is Better?

I've always thought Miami International Airport is the worst in terms of layout and logistics. I stand by that statement. It is also always crowded and busy through security and throughout the airport. But FLL was a hot mess, as well, when I was there this weekend. Too crowded to even get a coffee. Both these airports are the pits, especially compared to our beautiful Tampa International Airport.

Fort Lauderdale International Airport

IMG_6630-rotated.jpgPhoto Courtesy of RW

A Southwest Flight from Tampa to Fort Lauderdale.


Fort Lauderdale International Airport

IMG_6632-rotated.jpgPhoto Courtesy of RW

Fort Lauderdale International Airport

IMG_6634-rotated.jpgPhoto Courtesy of RW

It was so incredibly crowded at Fort Lauderdale Airport. This Starbucks is right next to baggage claim.


It was an absolute madhouse flying out of MIA.

IMG_6650-rotated.jpgPhoto Courtesy of RW

At least 35 minutes to get through security.


Let the Airside F Tour begin.

IMG_6177-scaled.jpgPhoto courtesy of RW

After you've made your way over on the monorail and through security, this is the first thing you see. A beautiful light purple sculpture above you.

Roxanne is a co-host on the MJ Morning Show and host of Middays on Q105 in Tampa Bay. She also hosts segments on The Current, which features local feel-good stories and health and wellness segments, and airs on five of the six Tampa-based Beasley Media Group stations. Roxanne has conducted hundreds of interviews, from athletes to Oscar winners, including Matt Damon, Christian Bale, and Chadwick Boseman. She also specializes in media training, having worked with clients in the NFL, NBA and WWE for television, in print, and online. Roxanne is a published author and will be releasing a thriller novel in 2024. Her favorite thing in the world is being with her two daughters and husband. As a content creator for Q105, Roxanne writes about family activities in the Tampa Bay area, as well as reviews for local restaurants and travel.