Daytona Beach International Airport Wins FDOT Award

Daytona Beach International Airport was named Florida’s 2024 Commercial Service Airport of the Year by the Florida Department of Transportation, according to a media release.

The award was announced at the FDOT Annual Aviation Awards ceremony held in conjunction with the Florida Airports Council Annual Conference. The county-managed airport also won this award in 2021.

“DAB won this award twice in three years – that speaks volumes to the professionalism of our team and the respect by industry peers” said Cyrus Callum, Volusia County Aviation and Economic Resources Director, in the release. The award is given to airports that have proven exceptional aviation safety, completed aesthetic improvements, and shown innovative management solutions throughout the year.

“This recognition is a testament to the commitment of our team to provide the highest levels of safety and customer service for our passengers, community and airline partners,” said Airport Director Karen Feaster, in the release. “With new customer service initiatives, ongoing safety and security enhancements, and the introduction of Avelo Airlines’ new air service, 2023 was a year full of opportunities. We look forward to continuing to deliver an exceptional travel experience.”

According to the release, the airport is “instrumental in supporting the future of aviation” and the facility consistently ranks in the top three busiest airports in Florida for total operations with up to 1,700 operations a day. Much of the volume is from flight training by Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and other training facilities.

The airport also partners with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services, which includes 24-hour coverage with a K9 team—the airport has four K9 teams.

The airport was also noted for efforts to improve the customer experience with the Art in Public Places program, including an art gallery highlighting Florida artists, the release states. In 2022, airport staff produced a full-color brochure that features each piece and artist in the collection.

“A positive customer experience is at the heart of our business, and we are thankful for the continued community support for our local airport,” Feaster said in the release.