Constructed to meet the maintenance capacity requirements of a long-term commercial airline, the new facility will support three heavy maintenance lines and is expected to induct its first aircraft this autumn. The expansion adds 100,000+ square feet to AAR’s Airframe MRO facility at Miami International Airport. The project was made possible through AAR’s collaboration with the airport, Ryan Companies, HPM, and federal, state, and local partners.

The additional work supported in the new facility creates 200 new full-time jobs with AAR and brings economic benefits to Miami-Dade County. AAR is actively staffing the new roles through its established workforce development pipeline and collaborative initiatives with local educational institutions, reinforcing the Company’s long-term commitment to talent development and community investment.

AAR is a leading global aerospace and defense aftermarket solutions company with operations in over 20 countries. Headquartered in the Chicago area, AAR supports commercial and government customers through three primary operating segments: Parts Supply; Repair, Engineering, and Software; and Government Solutions.

Immediately after the flag-raising, Miami-Dade Aviation and Seaport Committee Chair Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins led a dedication ceremony for the Renaissance of Towers — a 20‑foot‑tall, three‑ton stainless steel sculpture by international artist Helidon Xhixha. Originally completed in 2007, the monument was installed this week at MIA’s Central Boulevard entrance.

The $400,000 sculpture, previously showcased in cultural hubs including Venice, Florence, Berlin, Como, and Milan, reflects imagery of the American flag and draws inspiration from New York City’s Twin Towers as a tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks. Now positioned along a roadway traveled by more than 47,000 drivers daily, the monument was donated to Miami-Dade County through a partnership between Xhixha, Humberto Ortiz of AUM Construction, and Carlos and Martin Melo of the Melo Group, a Miami-based real estate developer.

The awards, hosted and organized annually by Asia Cargo News, recognize leading service providers, including air and shipping lines, airports and seaports, logistics companies, and other associated industry professionals. The nomination and voting process allowed more than 15,000 readers of Asia Cargo News and e-news subscribers to determine the leading companies in the market and then the winners, making the results the opinion of service users rather than a panel of judges.

Cargo shipments at MIA, the busiest U.S. airport for international freight, skyrocketed by 13.6% to nearly 3.5 million tons in 2025, giving the air cargo hub of the Americas six straight years of record-breaking growth. MIA’s cargo surge in 2025 also helped it leapfrog Louisville and Memphis – the global hubs for UPS and FedEx, respectively – to become the busiest airport for total freight in the U.S. and third in the world, behind only the Asian cargo hubs in Hong Kong and Shanghai.

Asia Cargo News established the nomination criteria, and following a technical evaluation, the top eight companies in each category were listed on the final ballot. The top four firms in each category made up the final shortlist, with the winners collecting their awards from guest presenters from some of the most prominent players in the Asian freight and logistics industry

Written by leading transport and cargo industry journalists, Asia Cargo News is a vital intelligence source for cargo, logistics, and supply chain companies in and doing business in Asia. The newspaper reaches more cargo shippers in Asia than any other publication and is a must-read for anyone in Asia’s freight and supply chain industry. 

Officials from Miami-Dade County and PS, the private luxury terminal company reimagining commercial air travel, debuted the PS MIA location today inside the former Pan American Airways headquarters at Miami International Airport. The new terminal, which enables travelers to bypass the traditional airport experience through dedicated private facilities, streamlined security, and highly personalized end-to-end travel services, marks PS’ first location in Florida and fourth outpost worldwide, following the Dallas-Fort Worth opening earlier this month.

Thoughtfully reimagining the landmark 1960s structure, the 34,000 square-foot space preserves elements of Pan Am’s original architecture and interiors while introducing a curated suite of elevated amenities that redefine the travel experience from arrival to departure. The terminal features five Private Suites, The Salon - an elevated social lounge designed for solo and business travelers - and a central open-air courtyard, complemented by spa treatments available upon request. These elements shape two distinct guest experiences: The Salon, an elevated social lounge suited to solo and business travelers, and The Private Suite, which offers fully private, residential-style accommodations designed for discretion and comfort.

Launching later this year, PS Direct will further extend this offering with integrated door-to-door transfers, transporting guests between aircraft and home or hotel. Across every touchpoint, the experience is defined by thoughtful precision, from private BMW chauffeur transfers and chef-prepared dining to discreet coordination led by PS’ Control Room across security, airlines, and agency partners, ensuring a smooth, secure, and highly controlled journey.

PS MIA brings together RJ Heisenbottle Architects and interior designer Cliff Fong to reimagine the iconic property. The design preserves its defining mid-century Brutalist character, recognized as a Miami-Dade County Historic Site, while layering in furnishings and details that subtly reference the Pan Am era. The result is a seamless blend of heritage and modern luxury, offering travelers a sophisticated retreat. The building's iconic features, including original Pan Am airline insignias, gold paneling, and original reflecting pools, have been carefully restored. The design draws inspiration from Miami’s tropical glamour through terrazzo, marble, smoked glass, and bold patterns. Blending these elements with PS’ signature hospitality, the new terminal offers a refined yet vibrant environment for travelers.

The newest location continues PS’ commitment to showcasing local artists and brands within its terminals. For this project, PS worked with Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs Art in Public Places, an award-winning public art commissioning program, to commission Nina Surel - Miami-based Argentinian artist and founder of The Collective 62, Miami’s first all-female art collective - to create integrated, artist designed reflecting pools at PS MIA. The art unfolds throughout the terminal, from a stoneware bas-relief mural of interlocking ceramic tiles to a mosaicked pool, each reflecting the city’s natural landscape and layered cultural influences.

With further art curation by Creative Art Partners, The PS Miami art collection is centered around light and a playful mix of materials with works that feel vibrant and expressive. There are subtle moments throughout, brought in through color, pattern, and arrangement, drawing from the building’s history as the original Pan Am headquarters. Softer pieces are balanced with bolder works, keeping the collection dynamic. It has an easy, vibrant energy that mirrors the rhythm and visual language of Miami itself. Artists include Shaina McCoy, Neill Wright, Jaakko Pallasvuo, Holly Lowen, and others; the art on display consists of mixed media pieces as well as paintings.

PS is currently operating in LAX, ATL, DFW, and MIA. For more information and to book, or become a member, visit reserveps.com

PS, originally established in 2017 as The Private Suite, reimagines the airport experience for the seasoned and discerning traveler. By owning and operating private airport terminals, PS allows commercial travelers to bypass the public terminals to indulge in a private and seamless travel experience with the spirit of luxury hospitality. At PS, guests can enjoy luxurious lounges or designated Private Suites, chef-prepared food, spa services and more, while the PS Control Room coordinates with government, security and airline officials to ensure the utmost efficiency, safety and privacy. Anyone can become a member of PS and corporate memberships are available.

In its centennial year, American Airlines will further its legacy as the largest airline serving the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Latin America (MCLA) by reaching a record 100 destinations in the region this year. Anchored by the carrier’s global hub at Miami International Airport, American will add new service to its 99^th and 100^th destinations in the region, with flights to Maracaibo, Venezuela (MAR), and Cap-Haitien, Haiti (CAP). American last flew to Maracaibo in 2019 and to Cap-Haitien in early 2020.

With service to 100 destinations, American’s winter MCLA network is nearly 50% larger than its nearest U.S. competitor. For travelers, that means more nonstop access to destinations unserved by any other U.S. carrier, including Anguilla (AXA); Bimini, Bahamas (BIM); Ocho Rios, Jamaica (OCJ); South Caicos, Turks and Caicos (XSC); Montevideo, Uruguay (MVD); and more.

More service to Venezuela than any other U.S. carrier

American will begin flights to Maracaibo on July 14, offering the only nonstop service from the U.S. This new flight will continue to foster business ties and strengthened relationships with family and friends, adding to American’s twice daily service between Miami and Caracas.

American will operate flights from MIA to MAR daily with Embraer 175 aircraft, featuring premium cabin offerings and free high-speed Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T.

Reconnecting Haiti with the United States

American will resume flights to Haiti with flights to Cap-Haitien starting Nov. 1. American will operate daily MIA-CAP service with Boeing 737 aircraft featuring premium cabin offerings and free high-speed Wi-Fi sponsored by AT&T.

Haiti is currently the largest country in the Caribbean by demand unserved by a U.S. carrier. South Florida is home to the largest Haitian American population in the U.S., and additional communities such as New York City and Orlando will also benefit from convenient one-stop connections to CAP.

Miami-Dade County’s hometown airline provides extensive service for travelers

American is proud to connect Miami-Dade County to the world with the best network of any airline, featuring more than 410 peak daily departures. This winter, the airline is enhancing its commitment with increased service on key routes for travelers:

• Two daily flights for the full winter season to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)
• Up to eight daily flights to San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
• Up to four daily flights to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands (STT)
• Two daily flights to Antigua (ANU) starting Oct. 5
• Up to six daily flights to Tortola, British Virgin Islands (EIS)
• Three daily flights to Exuma, Bahamas (GGT) from Dec. 17, 2026-April 5, 2027
• Two daily flights to St. Kitts (SKB) from Dec. 17, 2026-April 5, 2027

In the coming years, American will invest further in premium travel from MIA with a new Flagship^® lounge and a re-imagined Concourse D.

Ahead of Miami-Dade County’s first FIFA 2026 World Cup match, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava unveiled a series of new beautification projects and passenger experience upgrades at Miami International Airport during a nighttime ceremony on June 12. The event showcased MIA’s first-ever up-lighting installations, facility improvements across key terminal areas, large-scale baggage claim murals created in partnership with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), and a refreshed MIA brand identity.

Community partners joined Mayor Levine Cava for the ceremony, which concluded with the debut of MIA’s updated logo - a collaborative effort between MIA, the GMCVB, and the County’s Communications, Information, and Technology Department symbolizing the airport’s renewed commitment to exceptional customer service.

These enhancements are among the latest Forward Flight-inspired improvements at MIA as the airport prepares for the FIFA 2026 World Cup and beyond. The Forward Flight Team - an advisory group of local industry experts convened by the Mayor in January - continues to help streamline airport operations and elevate the overall passenger experience.

Miami International Airport celebrated the opening day of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with two performances for travelers inside Concourse D by Brazilian & Latin Sounds Co., featuring electrifying Samba dancers, high-energy Batucada drummers, and gravity-defying Capoeira acrobats. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava was in attendance for the first performance.

MIA is hosting fan zones at gate E5 and in the Concourse H-J connector post-security, where all games will be shown on large-screen monitors, while many airport restaurants will air the games live as well. Soccer-themed art exhibitions are also on view in MIA’s North and South terminals to get travelers into the World Cup spirit.

As the gateway of the Americas and the second-busiest U.S. airport for international passengers, MIA will serve millions of travelers during the World Cup. In addition to welcoming visitors for seven matches in Miami-Dade County, MIA will be a busy connector airport for travelers en route to other host cities across North America.

As part of the expansion, Families on the Fly is now available at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints 2, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10 at MIA, helping families traveling with strollers and young children move through security more efficiently while reducing congestion for all passengers.

The program comes as Miami-Dade County prepares for increased international travel and major global events, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Commissioner Milian Orbis thanked Director Ralph Cutie, MIA staff, and the TSA for their partnership in expanding the program and improving the travel experience for families passing through MIA.

Showcasing a wide range of artistic mediums, from painting, drawing, and mixed‑media collage to assemblage, photography, printmaking, textiles, sculpture, and video art, Beyond the Pitch captures the playful parallels between art and soccer while honoring the rich stories and vibrant culture surrounding the world’s most popular sport.

Participating artists include: Alissa Alfonso, Anastasia Samoylova, Annick Duvivier, Brian Reedy, Christina Pettersson, Claudio Marcotulli, Ernesto Kunde, Gianna DiBartolomeo, Kristen Thiele, Lili Cantero, Luis Valle, Marcus Rivero, Michelle Weinberg, and R&R Studios.

Through their diverse perspectives, each artist illustrates themes of sportsmanship, unity, perseverance, fluidity, athleticism, and global community - revealing soccer’s unique power to inspire creativity, forge social connections, and transcend borders. Beyond the Pitch invites travelers, soccer enthusiasts, and art lovers alike to experience Miami’s dynamic art scene while sharing in the anticipation, energy, and excitement of the World Cup.

In further celebration of the World Cup, MIA is presenting GOOOAL! Kicking Off Creativity: Miami's FIFA World Cup Celebration, an exhibition of artwork created by Miami-Dade County students in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Division of Life Skills & Special Projects. The exhibition is on display through October 14 in The Children’s Gallery, located post-security in the Concourse D–E connector.

MIA Galleries, established in 1996, is managed by MIA's Fine Arts and Cultural Affairs Division. Its mission is to enhance the travel environment by presenting exhibitions and showcasing works that celebrate the rich culture, diverse landscape, and artistic resources of the local community. MIA Galleries aims to elevate the passenger experience by curating a visually stimulating atmosphere that is contemporary, thought-provoking, and reflective of the cultural depth and creativity of the South Florida region.

MIA’s freight shipments skyrocketed by 13.6% to nearly 3.5 million tons in 2025, securing its position as the busiest cargo airport in the United States and the third busiest globally, surpassed only by Hong Kong and Shanghai. Passenger traffic also reached 55.3 million, pushing MIA up two spots to become the 8th-busiest airport in the nation. The airport remains the second busiest in the U.S. for international travelers and has now surpassed 55 million passengers for two consecutive years.

The elevated economic impact numbers come on the heels of glowing bond rating reports released in May by Fitch Ratings, Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA), and Standard & Poor's Global Ratings (S&P) for MIA’s Series 2026A and 2026B aviation revenue refunding bonds.

Fitch’s report affirmed its A+ rating and updated its outlook from stable to positive, noting that “MIA is a well-positioned gateway airport that serves a growing Latin American air service market, and it is also an important cargo hub. American Airlines maintains a dominant market share at the airport, but resilient traffic activity demonstrates MIA's strong franchise strength and importance to both American and the national aviation network.”

KBRA assigned an AA- rating and maintained a positive outlook for MIA, which it said reflected the airport's “improving financial profile, underpinned by sustained growth in domestic and international passenger traffic as well as cargo activity. MIA continues to outperform many of its large hub peers, particularly in the sunbelt, with passenger levels reaching record levels in the immediate, post-pandemic environment.”

S&P graded MIA with an A+ and stable outlook, noting that its rating “reflects our view of MIA's strong performance as a large hub in a growing service area, its outperformance of peers, and its essentiality to American Airlines Inc.'s route network, in our view. In addition, our positive holistic analysis reflects our view of the airport's financial resiliency and stability through multiple economic cycles, and captures MIA's operational strengths serving regional international markets, notably in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Concierge Powered by CLEAR offers travelers personalized airport assistance for both departures and arrivals, spanning from curb to gate, including baggage support and personal guidance through the terminal, helping travelers move confidently and comfortably through MIA during periods of record demand.

Available to all travelers at MIA, Concierge Powered by CLEAR is designed to support families, international visitors, business travelers, the elderly, and anyone looking for additional support on the day of travel. CLEAR Ambassadors help travelers navigate the airport journey with a welcoming, easy-to-identify presence and dedicated on-the-ground support, creating a calmer, more predictable airport journey.

The Concierge service builds on CLEAR’s January launch of biometric eGates at MIA, where CLEAR+ Members verify their identity in under five seconds and proceed directly to physical screening.

Concierge Powered by CLEAR is the fastest way to get through MIA. Pricing starts at $99 for departures and $199 for arrivals. Travelers do not need to be a CLEAR+ Member to take advantage of Concierge Powered by CLEAR at MIA. To learn more, including how to book, please see here.

This initiative reflects MDAD’s deliberate and proactive strategy to get ahead of the curve on air taxi infrastructure — not simply reacting to industry developments but shaping how South Florida receives them. As eVTOL technology rapidly advances from concept to commercial reality, MDAD is laying the foundation now so the region is ready when the skies open.

“SafeLand”: An Operational Testing Environment for Tomorrow’s Skies

At the heart of this partnership is “SafeLand,” a structured pilot program that will stand up the physical and digital infrastructure necessary to better support air taxi operations in an urban aviation environment. BDI will deploy ALTA, the Autonomous Landing & Take-Off Assistant, its proprietary air traffic management system across ramp facilities at TMB, establishing a live testing ground where AAM operational impact can be validated in real conditions.

And although SafeLand was structured before the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) eVTOL Integrated Pilot Program (eIPP), SafeLand complements the FAA’s Air Taxi initiatives by addressing the National Air Strategy’s goals for increased safety metrics outlined by U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.

The program will launch with manned drone operations to stress-test MDAD’s capability with ALTA, reducing operational impact and increasing safety for air taxi operators and passengers alike. Before advancing to full-scale eVTOL aircraft, MDAD will coordinate directly with the (FAA), serving as the operational authority over all testing activity across all sites.

A Federally Recognized Infrastructure Leader — And Florida’s Own Partner

MDAD’s decision to partner with BDI is grounded in BDI’s exceptional track record at the local and national level. BDI has been a pioneer in securing several partnerships spanning across the United States with the sole intention of developing dedicated air taxi infrastructure to connect local air spaces. Additionally, MDAD has noted that BDI is one of only a handful of companies to have been federally selected as infrastructure partners across multiple sites in the federal eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP).

Equally significant is BDI’s established role as an infrastructure partner for Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). BDI is actively engaged in supporting SunTrax, FDOT’s dedicated air taxi testing facility, which serves as the statewide proving ground for eVTOL technology. The BDI SafeLand program in Miami-Dade will serve as direct support for this statewide effort, bridging the gap between controlled facility testing at SunTrax and operational urban integration in South Florida’s busiest airspace. Together, these converging capabilities signal a major opportunity for the State of Florida and for AAM as a whole to embrace the future with local, state, and federal support.

Bell-Dancy Industries (BDI) is a Los Angeles-based developer of autonomous infrastructure for the next generation of aviation. Founded in 2018, BDI creates the critical safety systems and digital frameworks that make advanced air mobility operationally viable. Its flagship platform, ALTA (Autonomous Landing and Take-off Assistant), was developed in collaboration with NASA and UCLA and is designed to bring the highest standards of safety and accessibility to eVTOL and UAS operations. BDI has been federally selected as an infrastructure partner for multiple of the national eIPP selected sites and serves as an infrastructure partner for FDOT’s SunTrax Air Taxi testing facility.

Today, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and Miami International Airport officials unveiled plans and renderings for MIA’s new state-of-the-art Airport Operations Center (AOC) and Digital Monitoring Hub - the first of its kind in the U.S.  

Scheduled for completion in 2027, the $33-million, 13,254-square-foot operations and emergency response facility will be equipped with AI-powered long-range pan-tilt-zoom cameras, real-time digital tower technology, and a massive HD-quality integrated panoramic video wall, providing 360° visibility of MIA’s airside, landside, and terminal areas for best-in-class security and safety awareness.  

Features such as hurricane-resistant towers, vibration-controlled platforms, cyber-secure architecture, and accommodations for co-locating representatives from 30 agencies will allow the AOC to seamlessly transition to an emergency operations center during crisis situations. 

The future AOC is one of more than 200 projects within the $14-billion Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan - designed to completely transform every customer service touchpoint at the global gateway over the next five years. Other major projects include: the new Ibis Garage, which opened in December 2025; the modernization and preventive maintenance for more than 600 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways; renovation of 196 public access restrooms located on all three levels of MIA’s terminal and concourses; the new Concourse K expansion scheduled to open in 2029; and the Gate D60 expansion, scheduled for completion in 2030. 

Miami International Airport, in partnership with the Miami-Dade County Asian American Advisory Board, celebrated Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with two sets of energetic performances in the MIA terminal featuring: Lion dancing by the Lee Koon Hung Choy Lay Fut Kung Fu Association; tae kwon do demonstrations by World Class Martial Arts Miami; and Turkish choir performances by the Florida Turkish American Association (FTAA) Chorus.  

MIA welcomes 91% of all the flower imports by air to the U.S., and its busiest season is the month before Mother’s Day – even busier than the Valentine’s Day season. Flower imports continue to be MIA’s largest imported product, with preliminary figures showing that the cargo gateway received 394,181 U.S. tons of flower imports valued at $1.8 billion in 2025.

Flower imports are one of the biggest reasons why MIA became the busiest airport in the U.S. and third busiest in the world for total freight in 2025, according to the latest rankings by Airports Council International.

MIA leapfrogged Louisville and Memphis – the global hubs for UPS and FedEx, respectively – to become the busiest airport for total freight in the U.S. In the world, MIA ranked third behind only the Asian cargo hubs in Hong Kong and Shanghai. Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and MIA Director and CEO Ralph Cutie revealed the new rankings at World Trade Center Miami’s annual State of the Ports luncheon on April 27.

Thanks to MIA surpassing 55.3 million annual passengers in 2025, it also rose by two spots to be the 8th-busiest passenger airport in the country and jumped from #9 to #8 in total flights among U.S. airports.

MIA improved in three other global rankings: 6^th to 4^th in total cargo (freight plus mail), 5^th to 4^th in international freight, and 13^th to 11^th for total flights. MIA’s soaring cargo growth has carried over into the first quarter of 2026, when freight shipments increased by 15.7% over last year.  

Travelers and airport employees had the opportunity to interact with the dogs, learn about the adoption process, and engage directly with Miami-Dade County Animal Services staff, while also gaining a deeper understanding of the resources and services available to support pet owners throughout the County. 

The event proved highly successful, resulting in the adoption of six cats and five dogs, and has sparked discussions about making this initiative a recurring offering at the airport.

By leveraging MIA’s global platform and ASD’s mission-driven work, the partnership created a dynamic and impactful experience that extended beyond traditional adoption settings. The event underscored Miami-Dade County’s commitment to animal welfare, public engagement, and interdepartmental collaboration that enhances services for residents and visitors alike.

American first began service to Venezuela in 1987 before suspending flights in 2019. For more than 30 years, American served as the leading U.S. airline in the country, helping connect people, businesses, and communities. The resumption of this service is part of the airline’s commitment as the largest airline between the U.S. and Latin America and the Caribbean to provide travelers with comprehensive access to the region.

Starting May 21, American will introduce a second daily flight between MIA and CCS, also operated by Envoy with Embraer 175 aircraft. The E175 is a dual-class regional jet featuring a premium cabin and free Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava kicked off the event by debuting Miami International Airport’s AI-powered hologram chatbots, now available at four key entry points across the airport.  The launch makes MIA the first airport in the world to deploy large-scale geo-aware, agentic AI across its digital infrastructure, delivering real-time, location-based assistance through natural conversation and enabling seamless interaction across web, mobile, kiosks, and on-site digital interfaces.

MIA’s hologram chatbots - developed in collaboration with Mappedin, Satisfi Labs, and Hypervsn - enhance the passenger journey by providing intuitive, personalized support from curb to gate, marking a major milestone in Miami-Dade County's use of artificial intelligence to improve the travel experience.

Complementing these efforts, PortMiami, the Cruise Capital of the World® and the Cargo Gateway of the Americas®, showcased innovative technologies aimed at strengthening operations and efficiency, including  WorkWise’s robotic cleaning systems that support maintenance teams and optimize terminal operations, along with GridMatrix’s AI-powered platforms that analyze traffic flow to improve the movement of cargo and passengers.

Together, these innovations reflect Miami-Dade County’s broader vision to be Future-Ready—leveraging artificial intelligence and emerging technologies to deliver real, everyday results for residents and visitors while strengthening the County’s position as a global hub for innovation.

In partnership with the Miami Museum of Contemporary Art of the African Diaspora (Miami MoCAAD), the exhibition features vinyl replicas of three permanent murals located at historic Overtown landmarks. The murals allow viewers to explore the rich tapestry of Historic Overtown – which celebrates its 130-year anniversary this year - through visual art, oral histories, augmented reality, and QR codes that link to articles and interviews by Black Miami historians.  

OVERtown: Our Family Tree, by Anthony “Mojo” Reed II, is at the law office building constructed and owned by Judge Lawson E. Thomas, an early civil rights activist and Miami-Dade County’s first Black judge who presided over the nation’s only racially segregated court system.

Reginald O’Neal’s International Longshoreman Association Local 1416, located at the Local 1416 Union Hall, commemorates the longshoremen’s pivotal role in advancing and advocating for Miami’s Black community and providing economic ladders to the middle class.  

Stefan Smith’s Overtown Pitch: Game Changers at the historic Carver Hotel site, featuring images of soccer superstars Kylian Mbappe and Crystal Dunn, celebrates soccer through an innovative blend of figurative and abstract art and technology. QR codes in Smith’s mural invite viewers to engage with stories of Black soccer players who have left their mark on the sport and to participate in a penalty-kick shootout game.

By bringing recreations of permanent Overtown murals into an accessible public space, Miami MoCAAD aims to expand access and create new ways for residents, families, and youth across Miami-Dade County, as well as national and international visitors, to experience Miami's cultural heritage while reimagining spaces where art, history, technology, and community intersect. As the nation marks its semi-quincentennial, this exhibition pays tribute to the lasting influence of the African Diaspora in Overtown and beyond, inspiring a more inclusive vision of our past, present, and future.

Miami MoCAAD is dedicated to harnessing innovation to showcase contemporary visual arts production of the Global African Diaspora, leveraging traditional and technology-infused platforms.  The museum presents art through online virtual reality exhibitions, interactive murals with augmented reality accessible on-site in the community and on phones via the website, and traditional onsite exhibitions through collaborations.

MIA Galleries, established in 1996, is managed by the MIA's Fine Arts and Cultural Affairs Division. Its mission is to enhance the travel environment by presenting exhibitions and showcasing works that celebrate the rich culture, diverse landscape, and artistic resources of the local community. MIA Galleries aims to elevate the passenger experience by curating a visually stimulating atmosphere that is contemporary, thought-provoking, and reflective of the cultural depth and creativity of the South Florida region.

In celebration of America’s 250^th anniversary this year, Miami International Airport continued its MIA LIVE ARTS performance series – which honors the rich tapestry of American music and culture – by entertaining passengers with two performances by a quartet from Jazz Music in Action (JAZZMIA).

 JAZZMIA is dedicated to presenting world-class jazz – “America’s original art form” - throughout Miami-Dade County. JAZZMIA’s weekly series and other events are places for Miami’s jazz community, fans, and musicians to come together and enjoy live jazz in exceptional settings, with a strong sense of camaraderie and fun.

For America250, the MIA LIVE ARTS series hosts performances at MIA in a variety of musical styles, including country, jazz, disco, and rock. Each performance will showcase the unique rhythms and traditions that define America. From the infectious beats of line dancing to the soulful improvisations of jazz ensembles, every performance aims to spark celebration and pride. The first MIA LIVE ARTS performance was a high-energy line dance performance by Southside Stampede on March 12.

In recognition of World Autism Awareness Day today, Miami International Airport (MIA), Delta Air Lines, and LATAM Airlines hosted the airport’s latest MIA Airport Instruction and Readiness (MIAair) tour for more than 50 children with disabilities from local schools, along with their parents, teachers, and guardians. The tour allowed participants to rehearse the air travel experience from start to finish, all the way to an airplane seat, in a safe and controlled environment.

The children practiced entering the airport, getting boarding passes, going through security, and boarding a LATAM Airlines plane with the airline’s gate agents and flight crew. The program also served as a learning experience for airline and airport workers at MIA. The goal of the MIAair program is for anyone, regardless of their disability, to experience the magic and wonder of flight. Since launching the MIAair tours in 2015, in partnership with the UM-NSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD), MIA has now hosted tours for nearly 400 children with disabilities

For more information about MIA’s award-winning MIAair program, visit the MIAair webpage.  

While this marks an exciting moment for the community, airport users should be prepared for possible travel delays in the surrounding area. The match, scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m., is expected to bring higher traffic volumes, particularly at airport entrances and exits on Le Jeune Road and Douglas Road.

Increased traffic activity is anticipated between approximately 4:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m., with stadium parking opening at 4:30 p.m. Travelers are encouraged to allow additional time when traveling to or from MIA during these hours.

MIA appreciates your patience and cooperation as we work to ensure a safe and efficient travel experience for all.

Miami International Airport treated passengers and employees to a Miami Music Week experience with a three-hour live set by rising DJ and producer Amal Nemer. Hundreds of travelers got in the groove as they connected through the airport.

Nemer has quickly become one of Miami’s most exciting exports since launching her music career there in 2020. Despite only truly emerging in 2021, Amal has already released music on labels including Moon Harbour, Glasgow Underground, Nervous Records, Made in Miami, and Farris Wheel, and found her way into the top 100 of Beatport with instant hits such as ‘Shot Por Mi’, ‘A Good Song’, and ‘Feelings.’

Now open through August in MIA’s Concourse J Mezzanine Gallery on the 4^th floor, the exhibit highlights Curtiss' transformative role and impact on the region and the flourishing aviation industry that emerged during the cities’ land boom of the 1920s. Visitors can navigate through six thematic displays that weave together the narrative of Curtiss' innovative spirit and influence through a collection of loaned original artifacts, photographs, and scaled models that document Curtiss and the communities he was involved in founding; his early life in South Florida; and his business ventures such as flight schools, travel trailers, and a movie studio.

Curated by aviation historian Richard Leisenring, Miami Springs historian Ken Wilde, and Opa-locka Preservation Association Founder Alex Van Mecl, the exhibition also features a scaled model of the Glenn Curtiss and June Bug Legacy Memorial monument, an upcoming landmark in Miami Springs by local artist Natalie Plasencia. The monument will be unveiled this August in conjunction with Miami Springs' centennial anniversary on August 23, to honor Curtiss’ innovation, courage, and imagination.

The exhibition was made possible with the generous support and collaboration of the cities of Hialeah, Miami Springs, and Opa-locka, the Curtiss Mansion, the Miami Springs Historical Society, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau, and the Anthony R. Abraham Foundation.  

MIA Galleries, established in 1996, is managed by the Miami-Dade Aviation Department's Fine Arts and Cultural Affairs Division. Its mission is to enhance the travel environment by presenting exhibitions and showcasing works that celebrate the rich culture, diverse landscape, and artistic resources of the local community. MIA Galleries aims to elevate the passenger experience by curating a visually stimulating atmosphere that is contemporary, thought-provoking, and reflective of the cultural depth and creativity of the South Florida region.

The performance series, part of MIA LIVE ARTS, will offer airport visitors a variety of musical styles, including country, jazz, disco, and rock.  Each performance will showcase the unique rhythms and traditions that define America. From the infectious beats of line dancing to the soulful improvisations of jazz ensembles, every performance aims to spark celebration and pride.

Two mobile ventanita coffee stands from La Cafeteria offered a free colada or cortadito, and La Carreta served free coffee, croquetas and pastelitos to MDAD employees. In recognition of their dedication to serving more than 55 million passengers annually at the gateway to the 305. At 3:05 p.m. the ventanitas let out plumes of steam from the top of the giant cafeterias. In true 305 style.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Commissioners, and American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, along with local, state, and federal officials, and community partners, today unveiled plans to expand Miami International Airport’s Concourse D. The new Gate D60 expansion will create 17 new aircraft gates and adjoining passenger boarding areas, additional dining and shopping options, and an enhanced baggage handling system by the year 2030.

Scheduled to break ground in 2027, the $1 billion, three-level extension will convert the existing gate D60 area - which currently has one common boarding space and 17 ground-level gates for smaller regional jets - into 17 traditional contact gates for larger regional and narrow-body aircraft, each with individual, spacious passenger hold rooms. All 17 gate areas will provide convenient third-level connections to Concourse D’s U.S. Customs and Border Protection facility for international arrivals.

The new Gate D60 extension also includes several sustainable building features designed to earn the facility LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Silver and Envision Verified certifications – the highest ratings for resilient structures by the U.S. Green Building Council and the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure.

The Gate D60 expansion is one of more than 200 projects within the $9 billion M.I.A. Plan. Other major projects include: the new Ibis Garage, which opened in December; modernization and preventive maintenance for more than 600 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways; renovation of 196 public access restrooms located on all three levels of MIA’s terminal and concourses; the new Concourse K expansion scheduled to open in 2029; and the $745-million Central Terminal redevelopment project, which will modernize MIA’s oldest terminal area by 2031.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Natalie Milian-Orbis for District 6, which includes Miami International Airport, County Commissioner Juan Carlos Bermudez, and other local government leaders gathered at MIA to unveil a new wall mural honoring pioneering aviator and land developer Glenn Curtiss, who founded the cities of Hialeah, Miami Springs, and Opa-locka – each currently celebrating centennial anniversaries. 

In partnership with the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau and other local cultural organizations, From Wings to Cities: The Vision of Glenn Curtiss, is now on display through April 1, 2026, at MIA’s Connecting Communities Wall on the arrivals level near door 11. The mural features historic images and milestones of each city over the past 100 years.

Long before Miami-Dade County became a global gateway, Curtiss imagined communities built around innovation, mobility, and modern living - where aviation would redefine how people connected to place and to one another. Working with fellow pioneers, Curtiss played a defining role in founding Hialeah in 1925 and Miami Springs and Opa-locka in 1926.

Each reflects a different expression of his ambition and belief in planned communities designed for the future. Hialeah, envisioned as “The City of Progress,” has grown into a dynamic center of industry and culture, shaped in large part by its immigrant community. Opa-locka captured the imagination through its Moorish Revival style and Arabian Nights–inspired identity, making it one of the most distinctively planned cities in the nation. Miami Springs emerged as a carefully designed residential oasis, known for its Pueblo Revival architecture and human-scale charm.

During an illustrious career spanning 23 years as Third World’s principal drummer and percussionist, Willie Stewart co-produced 13 albums, five of which received Grammy nominations. He has received world acclaim as the recipient of the NAACP Image Award, the Diamond Award, and the United Nations Peace Medal. Willie has teamed with composers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff, recorded and performed live with Stevie Wonder, Eddy Grant, Carlos Santana, and Bob Marley, and shared billing with Quincy Jones, U2, and The Police.

TSA PreCheck Touchless ID uses advanced facial comparison technology to verify a traveler’s identity in seconds. Passengers simply look into a camera at a dedicated lane, where their live photo is securely matched against their stored passport. This touchless process enhances security while providing a more efficient and convenient screening experience for enrolled travelers.

The feature is available to current TSA PreCheck members flying with the following participating airlines at these MIA concourses:

• Concourse D (Checkpoint 1): American Airlines
• Concourse E (Checkpoint 5): American Airlines and Alaska Airlines
• Concourse H (Checkpoint 8): Delta Air Lines and United Airlines

To use TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, eligible passengers must opt in through their airline’s app or profile (where supported) and ensure their TSA PreCheck Known Traveler Number and valid passport information are on file. A TSA PreCheck Touchless ID indicator will appear on the mobile boarding pass for qualifying flights.

Travelers are reminded to carry a physical ID as a backup, as requested by TSA officers when necessary. Enrollment in TSA PreCheck is open to U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents via tsa.gov/precheck.

Cargo shipments at Miami International Airport, the busiest U.S. airport for international freight, skyrocketed by 13.6% to nearly 3.5 million tons in 2025, giving the air cargo hub of the Americas six straight years of record-breaking growth.

Passenger traffic at MIA surpassed the 55-million mark for the second consecutive year, reaching 55.3 million travelers in 2025 — just 1% below the airport’s record set in 2024. The second-busiest U.S. airport for international travel served 24.8 million passengers and 30.5 million domestic passengers, underscoring sustained demand for Miami-Dade County’s global gateway. Even as North America experienced a 2% decline in domestic air travel in 2025, according to the most recent data available from Airports Council International, MIA outperformed national trends, highlighting the continued strength and resilience of the region’s travel market.

MIA ended 2025 strong with another record-setting winter holiday travel season from December 19 to January 5, welcoming nearly 3.3 million passengers for a 1.2% increase over last year. The upward trend continued into the new year, with passenger traffic up 1.5% in January. Additionally, the first quarter of 2026 kicks off an unprecedented year of local sports and entertainment events that will draw millions of visitors to Miami-Dade County this spring and all year long.

In 2025, MIA was ranked North America’s most-improved mega airport in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power, the Best Airport for Layovers by Global Traveler magazine, one of the  Top 10 U.S. Airports for Food and Drink by Food and Wine magazine, and the third-best U.S. airport for business travelers by travel platform Booking.com for Business.

The new Miami route, which began on January 24 with three weekly flights, provides greater international and cross-border connectivity for onward travel by the Latin American and Caribbean hub for Porter’s codeshare partner, American Airlines.

This winter, Porter is offering more flights from YOW than any other carrier, serving 26 non-stop routes. Miami is part of a larger expansion into sun markets from Ottawa this season, with destinations in Mexico, The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, and Costa Rica operating since December.

Porter’s onboard experience provides every passenger with complimentary beer and wine served in glassware, a selection of Canadian premium snacks, and free, fast streaming WiFi. The all-inclusive PorterReserve fare includes fresh, healthy meals and features such as the ability to change flights without a fee, dedicated check-in, extra legroom, and two checked bags. For travelers who prefer to choose specific features to fit their needs, the PorterClassic fare offers these perks à la carte.

Headquartered in Toronto, Porter Airlines is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves North America, including a coast-to-coast domestic Canadian network, the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America.

As winter storm disruptions continued to impact air travel nationwide, MIA offered passengers a thoughtful way to unwind at the lending library experience near gate H5 in partnership with Miami Dade College, Miami Book Fair, and the Miami-Dade Public Library System.  

The activation coincided with Library Shelfie Day and featured a visit from one of MIA’s Miami Hound Machine therapy pets, Avi the poodle, who was accompanied by her owner, an MIA Volunteer Ambassador. Travelers of all ages snapped a “shelfie” with Avi, interacted with her, and enjoyed complimentary books or reading materials while they waited for their flights. 

With thousands of flights canceled across the country due to Winter Storm Fern, MIA has served as a critical support hub for airline partners repositioning aircraft and for passengers connecting to other destinations. In addition to operational support, the airport assisted passengers during extended wait times by providing additional support staff and a free overnight sleeping area. 

MIA’s Books with an Altitude library creates a calm, welcoming space for travelers to browse, read, and relax - reflecting the County’s commitment to community partnerships, innovation, and customer service, even during periods of significant travel disruption.

MIA continues to work closely with its airlines and federal partners to manage the impacts of Winter Storm Fern while identifying creative, passenger-friendly ways to improve the terminal experience during challenging travel periods. Passengers are encouraged to check their flight status directly with their airline before coming to the airport and to allow extra time for travel during ongoing weather impacts.

Built by FlightPath3D, the online tool puts MIA’s vast global network in the palm of the user’s hands with interactive features that turn and swivel the globe for their destination of choice and then zoom in for tips and reviews about local attractions from travel experts. Selecting “See Destinations” in the pop-up box opens a detailed map of the city with virtual video tours. Users can share destinations and custom trip playlists with friends and family via email or by copying the link. MIA Discover’s travel calendar lets the user select preferred dates, view available flights, and go straight to the airline’s booking portal.

The first quarter of 2026 kicks off an unprecedented year of local sports and entertainment events that will draw millions of visitors to Miami-Dade County this spring and all year long.

MIA offers more flights to Latin America and the Caribbean than any other U.S. airport, is the busiest airport for international passengers in Florida, and the second-busiest airport for international travel in the U.S. In 2025, MIA was ranked North America’s most-improved mega airport in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power, the Best Airport for Layovers by Global Traveler magazine, one of the  Top 10 U.S. Airports for Food and Drink by Food and Wine magazine, and the third-best U.S. airport for business travelers by travel platform Booking.com for Business.

After being commended by Mayor Levine Cava, Miami-Dade County Chief Operating Officer Jimmy Morales, and American Airlines Miami Hub Vice President Juan Carlos Liscano for their teamwork and dedication in 2025, employees received a recap from MIA Director and CEO Ralph Cutie of the airport’s numerous milestones last year that have prepared MIA for the County’s blockbuster events calendar in 2026.

Most recently, MIA welcomed more record-breaking numbers during its winter travel season from December 19 to January 5, with nearly 3.3 million passengers - a 1.2% increase from the same period last year.

Pivotal airport improvements in 2025 include: the completion of the 2,240-space Ibis Garage, which increased MIA’s parking capacity by 30%; the largest single deployment of Enhanced Passenger Processing at any U.S. airport, providing faster and more secure arrivals for U.S. citizens entering the country; upgrading one of its busiest passenger checkpoints with the latest TSA screening technology, designed to be 30% faster than the traditional checkpoint; the launch of biometric eGates by CLEAR at two of MIA’s busiest TSA checkpoints; the modernization of 38 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways, which makes 95% of MIA’s 616 units operational; the 44^th total bathroom renovation, putting that airport-wide project at 23% completion; and 32 modernized passenger boarding bridges to date, which is 25% of all bridges at MIA

The team arrived to a water cannon salute from Miami-Dade Fire Rescue and cheers from enthusiastic MIA fans. As the players stepped off the plane, MIA team members lined the arrival area, holding “1-0” signs, which energized the Canes and reminded them that all of Miami-Dade is behind them.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava personally greeted the team to celebrate their hard work, determination, and the pride they bring to the community.

MIA now looks forward to welcoming visitors from across the nation for the College Football Playoff National Championship on January 19, when the Canes will play the Indiana Hoosiers in Miami.

With eGates, CLEAR+ members can verify their identity in under five seconds, bypassing the TSA podium and proceeding directly to physical screening. This innovation represents a significant leap in modernizing security checkpoints with automation – especially critical during the holiday travel rush, as TSA recently recorded its busiest day ever, screening more than 3.1 million travelers. 

CLEAR’s goal with eGates is simple: help travelers win the day of travel. Beyond the holidays, CLEAR is looking ahead to major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and next year’s America 250 celebrations, which will bring millions of visitors to the U.S.

Automated eGates are designed to provide a scalable and secure solution that expedites the passenger screening experience and enhances security. The innovation builds on the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) efforts to modernize and streamline U.S. airport security checkpoints, with a specific focus on enhancing security, hospitality, and the passenger experience.

This first-of-its-kind pilot represents an innovative public–private partnership that enables TSA to scale identity verification and streamline airport processing just in time for the World Cup. With more than 20 million international visitors expected to fly to the U.S. for the tournament and domestic travel surging through U.S. host cities, checkpoint infrastructure will face unprecedented pressure.

CLEAR’s eGates are designed to conduct real-time biometric verification, matching a traveler’s facial image with their identity document and boarding pass. TSA retains complete operational control: triggering gate access, conducting security vetting, and enforcing government security requirements. CLEAR transmits only limited data, such as a live photo, boarding pass, ID photo used for enrollment, and identity information. Once identity and clearance are confirmed, passengers proceed directly to physical screening, bypassing the TSA podium while still undergoing all security screening.

The Ibis Garage also features sustainable elements, including 50 spaces dedicated to electric vehicle charging, energy-efficient LED lighting fixtures, and a Parksmart Silver Certification design, the global standard for environmentally responsible and high-performing parking structures. Lemartec, a nationally recognized construction management firm, designed and completed the new parking facility ahead of schedule.

The Ibis Garage is one of more than 200 projects within the M.I.A. Plan. Other major projects include: modernization and preventive maintenance for more than 600 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways; renovation of 196 public access restrooms located on all three levels of MIA’s terminal and concourses; the new Concourse K expansion scheduled to open in 2029; and the $745-million Central Terminal redevelopment project, which will modernize MIA’s oldest terminal area by 2031.

With record travel expected, MIA recommends the following travel tips:

Check-In:

• Arrive at MIA three hours before your flight to give yourself enough time for parking, airline check-in, and the security screening process.

• Do your airline check-in online before arriving at MIA.

• MIA also provides updated flight information online and on its mobile app.

Parking:

• The new 2,240-space Ibis Garage will open on December 19, joining the Dolphin and Flamingo garages to give MIA travelers a total of 10,500 spaces – its highest total ever. All three garages will be accessible at MIA’s main parking entrance.

• Discounted parking is also available at MIA’s remote Economy Park and Ride lot, and Valet Parking is located directly across from MIA’s check-in area at doors 2 and 20 in both the Dolphin and Flamingo garages.

• MIA’s Cell Phone Waiting Lot, which provides 60 free parking spaces for non-commercial users waiting to pick up travelers, is located just off LeJeune Road and N.W. 31^st Street, accessible from LeJeune Road heading north or south.

TSA Screening

• Since July 8, 2025, passengers traveling through domestic airports are allowed to keep their shoes on while passing through security screening at TSA checkpoints.

• Pack essential items such as medicine, travel documents, a phone charger, and a change of clothes in your carry-on instead of your checked bag in case your flight gets delayed and you are not able to quickly retrieve your checked bag.

• To expedite TSA checkpoint screening, follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids or gels in your carry-on, and avoid accessories that resemble weapons and other prohibited items. Find more TSA tips on the TSA website.  

• Find the fastest TSA checkpoint for your flight with MIA’s real-time updates on checkpoint wait times online.

International Travel

• Some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. Learn about your destination’s passport requirements by visiting the U.S. State Department’s destination web page.
• Eligible international travelers can use the free, secure Mobile Passport Control app on their smartphone or tablet to submit their passport and customs declaration information.
• Special accessibility lanes in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) area are available for passengers with disabilities or limited mobility arriving from foreign destinations by completing an accessibility lane request form online 48 hours before arrival.

# # #

The Booking.com for Business ranking comes just two months after J.D. Power named MIA the most-improved mega airport in North America for customer satisfaction.

Among the study’s six categories, MIA ranked highest among all U.S. airports for cars available for hire with 563 vehicles, providing “flexible options for reaching the city center for meetings or onward destinations.”

MIA also earned praise in the study for providing 196 nonstop routes, 38% of which are business-class routes, “offering business travel passengers more flexibility and options to rebook flights if they need to, due to any travel disruption or last-minute schedule changes.”

MIA Galleries is now more accessible for both on-site and off-site visits via the online guide’s photo, audio, and video content and wayfinding maps, which provide updates on current exhibitions and artwork on display, upcoming artist demonstrations, performances, and cultural events, past exhibitions, and selections from Miami-Dade County’s Art in Public Places collection at MIA. The MIA Galleries guide also features best-in-class accessibility options, including screen reader support, zoom and font size adjustments, transcripts, subtitles, alternative text, and multilingual support via Google Translate.

MIA Galleries, established in 1996, is managed by the Miami-Dade Aviation Department's Fine Arts and Cultural Affairs Division. Its mission is to enhance the travel environment by presenting exhibitions and showcasing works that celebrate the rich culture, diverse landscape, and artistic resources of the local community. MIA Galleries aims to elevate the passenger experience by curating a visually stimulating atmosphere that is contemporary, thought-provoking, and reflective of the cultural depth and creativity of the South Florida region.

Bloomberg Connects provides free digital guides to cultural organizations worldwide. The platform is part of Bloomberg Philanthropies’ longstanding commitment to supporting digital innovation in the arts. Bloomberg Connects makes it easy to access and engage with arts and culture from mobile devices when visiting in person or anytime from anywhere. With dynamic content exclusive to each partner organization, it offers a range of features, including video, audio, and text, as well as expert commentary and way-finding maps. The Bloomberg Connects app is available for download from Google Play or the App Store.

Check-In:

·       Arrive at MIA three hours before your flight to give yourself enough time for parking, airline check-in, and the security screening process.

·       Do your airline check-in online before arriving at MIA.

             ·       MIA also provides updated flight information online and on its mobile app.

Parking:

·       Parking may reach capacity because of high travel demand. Travelers can now pre-pay for Reserved Parking inside MIA’s Flamingo or Dolphin garages. For more information, please visit the Reserved Parking webpage.

·       Discounted parking is available at MIA’s remote Economy Park and Ride lot, and Valet Parking is located directly across from MIA’s check-in area at doors 2 and 20 in both the Dolphin and Flamingo garages.

             ·       Alternate ground transportation options include ride-share and taxi services.

·       MIA’s Cell Phone Waiting Lot, which provides 60 free parking spaces for non-commercial users waiting to pick up travelers, is located just off LeJeune Road and N.W. 31^st Street, accessible from LeJeune Road heading north or south.

TSA Screening

         ·    Since July 8, 2025, passengers traveling through domestic airports are allowed to keep their shoes on while passing through security screening at TSA checkpoints.

           ·        Pack essential items such as medicine, travel documents, a phone charger, and a change of clothes in your carry-on instead of your checked bag in case your flight gets delayed, and you are not able to quickly retrieve your checked bag.

·   To expedite TSA checkpoint screening, follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids or gels in your carry-on, and avoid accessories that resemble weapons and other prohibited items. For more TSA tips, visit the TSA website.  

·     Find the fastest TSA checkpoint for your flight with MIA’s real-time updates on checkpoint wait times online.

International Travel

·        Some countries require that your passport have at least six months of validity beyond the dates of your trip. Some airlines will not allow you to board if this requirement is not met. Learn about your destination’s passport requirements by visiting the U.S. State Department’s destination web page. 

·        Eligible international travelers can use the free, secure Mobile Passport Control app on their smartphone or tablet to submit their passport and customs declaration information. 

·        Special accessibility lanes in the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) area are available for passengers with disabilities or limited mobility arriving from foreign destinations by completing an accessibility lane request form online 48 hours before arrival.

At MIA, CBP’s EPP initiative leverages SITA’s Smart Path platform to capture and process biometric photos during inspection, verifying travelers by matching images against CBP’s records within three seconds[LP1] . This automation reduces wait times while upholding the highest security standards. At MIA, the process involves 12 biometric face pods across MIA’s three passport control facilities, located in concourses D, E, and J, making it CBP’s largest single EPP deployment to date. MIA’s broader digital transformation strategy may include future expansion.

The mobile wireless-enabled pods can be repositioned as passenger flow changes, helping CBP optimize staffing and throughput. Each unit is equipped with agent-facing screens for real-time monitoring, ensuring that the technology enhances both passenger experience and officer oversight.

According to SITA’s latest Air Transport IT Insights, 53% of North American airlines are already investing in biometric and digital identity management, outpacing the global average. Meanwhile, nearly 60% of airports have implemented touchless passenger flow technologies, indicating that the region is at the forefront of aviation’s digital transformation.

The introduction of EPP at MIA directly supports this trend, enabling more efficient processing without the need for new infrastructure, and demonstrating how biometrics and mobile connectivity can help alleviate congestion as passenger volumes increase.

The children practiced entering the airport, getting boarding passes, going through security, and boarding a LATAM Airlines plane with the airline’s gate agents and flight crew. The program also served as a learning experience for airline and airport workers at MIA. The goal of the MIAair program is for anyone, regardless of their disability, to experience the magic and wonder of flight. Since launching the MIAair tours in 2015, in partnership with the UM-NSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD), MIA has now hosted tours for nearly 400 children with disabilities.

For more information about MIA’s award-winning MIAair program, visit the MIAair webpage.  

On view through April 5, 2026, at MIA’s CameraWorks gallery at gates D22 and D25, the exhibition features nine previously unexhibited black-and-white images of plant life, highlighting the intricate structures, extraordinary details, and stunning beauty of nature. Characterized by a profound contemplation and admiration of nature’s innermost details, Closer aims to encourage hurried travelers to pause and appreciate the beauty that inspired the artist.  

Issa-Khan was born in Tehran and raised across Iran, Europe, and the United States. In 1999, she relocated to South Florida, where she began to focus on capturing the beauty of nature, specifically flowers, seashells, and coral. Her nature photography has been exhibited in major cities, including New York, London, and Paris, and featured in publications like Veranda and Luxe. A retrospective book of her work, IRAN ISSA-KHAN Photographs, was published in 2011, with a foreword by longtime friend Zaha Hadid.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Issa-Khan captured iconic figures such as Paulina Porizkova, Andie MacDowell, and Christy Turlington, with her work featured in renowned publications like Harper's Bazaar and Vogue. Her impressive client list includes celebrities, politicians, and high-profile figures, such as Nancy Reagan, the Ferragamo and Fendi families, Diane von Furstenberg, Carolina Herrera, and Paloma Picasso, with whom she shot ads and covers for 25 years.

CameraWorks is a space dedicated to exhibitions of fine art photography, including mixed-media photography and photo-based works by emerging and established artists based in South Florida. MIA Galleries, established in 1996, is the arts and exhibitions program at MIA, managed by the Miami-Dade Aviation Department's Division of Fine Arts and Cultural Affairs. Our mission is to enhance the travel environment by presenting exhibitions and showcasing works that celebrate the rich culture, diverse landscape, and artistic resources of the local community. MIA Galleries aims to elevate the passenger experience by curating a visually stimulating atmosphere that is contemporary, thought-provoking, and reflective of the cultural depth and creativity of the South Florida region.

In partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), MIA’s new TSA Checkpoint 2 at Concourse D features four Analogic eXpress passenger screening lanes, each equipped with state-of-the-art 3D computed tomography (CT) explosive detection scanners and fully automated bin return conveyance systems that can screen 500 bins per hour. MIA is one of the first U.S. airports with the new eXpress lanes.

The new checkpoint made its debut on November 1, following a temporary closure in August for the $5.3 million renovation. The project is part of MIA’s $9 billion Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan to renovate the entire airport over the next 5 to 10 years. Concourse D is home to hub carrier American Airlines, which serves 31 million passengers annually at MIA. American recently announced plans to operate a record-breaking 430 peak daily departures from MIA this winter travel season.

Automated conveyor belts transport carry-on bags into the CT machines and then return the bins to the queue line after screening is completed. Bags with a potential threat can be directed to a separate area, allowing other bins behind them to continue through the system uninterrupted. Analogic eXpess lane property bins are also 25 percent larger than bins in regular screening lanes, which improves speed and efficiency. Unique Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tags are attached to each bin to provide additional accountability for items as they travel through the system.

MIA’s new Checkpoint 2 is one of more than 200 projects within the M.I.A. Plan. Other major renovation and expansion projects include: modernization and preventive maintenance for more than 600 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways; the new 2,240-space Ibis garage opening this December; the new Concourse K expansion scheduled to open in 2029; and the $745-million Central Terminal redevelopment project, which will modernize MIA’s oldest terminal area by 2031.

Icelandair’s new service establishes MIA as the only airport in Florida with nonstop flights to four sovereign countries in Scandinavia this winter and makes Reykjavik MIA’s 18th  European destination. Miami becomes Icelandair’s 19^th gateway in North America.

With an extensive route network, Icelandair uses Iceland's unique geographical location as a hub midway between Europe and North America, offering direct flights to around 60 destinations. In addition to the international route network, Icelandair operates a domestic network in Iceland, an airfreight and logistics business, and aircraft leasing and consulting services.

Since its founding in 1937, Icelandair has steadily expanded its route network. In 2024, it transported 4.7 million passengers to 55 destinations in Europe and North America and employed around 3,600 full-time employees.

According to the News Service of Florida: “The 2025 Above & Beyond honorees represent a kaleidoscope of energy and industry – and a powerful model for change. They bring new perspectives to sectors as diverse as broadcast journalism, real estate, higher education, social services, and lobbying. Whether bolstering research, modernizing healthcare, or keeping communities informed, this year’s honorees are undeniably making the Sunshine State a more dynamic and prosperous place.”

Finol is spearheading MIA’s multi-billion-dollar Modernization in Action (M.I.A.) Plan, which will completely transform Florida’s busiest international gateway over the next five to 10 years. The 208 projects within the M.I.A. Plan are paving the way for MIA to accommodate its projected growth of up to 77 million passengers and five million tons of cargo by the year 2040.

Finol is a seasoned engineer with decades of experience who oversees all aspects of major construction projects at MIA. In her current position, she leads a team of 62 engineers, architects, construction managers, and other professionals who are responsible for the runways, taxiways, and other facilities at MIA and the county’s four general aviation airports.

The M.I.A. Plan includes unprecedented renovation and expansion projects, including: the new 2,240-space Ibis garage opening this December; the new Concourse K expansion scheduled to open in 2029; and the $745-million Central Terminal redevelopment project, which will modernize MIA’s oldest terminal area by 2031.

The News Service of Florida is the state’s most comprehensive and in-depth source of political and policy news, including legislative and budgetary issues, the courts, the Florida economy, and more.