Key West airport to shut down as Hurricane Irma advances toward Florida

While AAA on Tuesday recommended travel tips for anyone who may be affected by Hurricane Irma, government officials in Key West, Fla., announced that Key West International Airport will close Wednesday night.

Government officials, in a Facebook post this afternoon, said the airport will close after the last flight -- Delta Flight 567 departing for Atlanta at 5:50 p.m. -- because TSA's security checkpoint is stopping its screening of airline passengers.

RELATED: The latest on Hurricane Irma

All commercial flights at KWI Airport will be canceled from Thursday morning until further notice, government officials said in the Facebook post. General aviation will continue at KWI Airport until conditions become unsafe to operate.

The Florida Keys Marathon International Airport also will remain open for general aviation until conditions become unsafe to operate, those officials said.

International general aviation will end Wednesday afternoon at both Key West and Marathon airports when U.S. Customs and Border Protection ceases operations.

RELATED: Hurricane Irma worries area college, university students 

AAA officials said they are anticipating airline delays and cancellations as the storm bears down on the Caribbean, Florida and the southern U.S.

To that end, AAA is recommending the following preparation tips for those who may be affected by Hurricane Irma:

  • Check with your travel agent and travel providers for cancellation policies, itinerary changes.
  • Monitor weather conditions regularly, at your departure city and destination.
  • Check flight status before leaving for the airport.
  • Consider signing up for text or mobile app alerts from your airline for flight information.
  • When flying, bring essentials in your carry-on bag in case travel schedules change.
  • Check with your hotel for local updates on potential weather impacts.
  • Consider buying travel insurance before a trip in the event of severe weather.

GOT A TIP? Call our monitored 24-hour line, 937-259-2237, or send it to newsdesk@cmgohio.com

About the Author