Fort Myers airport sees stress-free holiday travel experience

Travelers at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers are seeing smooth conditions this Christmas Eve, with a steady flow of families and holiday travelers moving through the terminal.

While the airport remains busy, many passengers report their travel experience has been largely stress-free, citing manageable TSA lines and efficient movement throughout the airport.

Exar Alonso, visiting from Wisconsin, said the process was easier than expected.

“It was not too busy. I mean, really convenient,” said Alonso.

Several travelers said planning ahead played a key role in avoiding delays. Linda Swanson, an RSW flyer, said she and her husband arrived early to give themselves extra time, only to find the process moved faster than anticipated.

“We thought it was going to take us an hour to get here, but it only took us half an hour, so we got right in, and we went to breeze to check in our luggage, but we were way too early, so we have to sit here and wait,” said Swanson.

Her husband, Ned Swanson, added that even parking farther from the terminal did not slow them down.

“We are in the way back 40, but this shuttle was like, right there. I mean, really, truly, it’s been a breeze here at RSW,” said Swanson.

RSW officials have indicated that both long-term and short-term parking lots are nearing capacity. As an alternative, the airport is offering a remote parking option located in the Skyplex area on the north side of the airport property.

Travelers using the remote lot can park until 7 p.m. and must exit by Sunday. The cost is a flat $60 fee, and reservations must be made and prepaid in advance.