Tampa Bay Executive Airport
The Tampa Bay Executive Airport was a private aviation facility located on State Road 54 in Odessa, Florida. Serving the broader Tampa Bay region, this airport provided a hub for private aircraft and essential aviation services before its eventual decommissioning. Operated by Seven Eagles, Inc. and previously owned by Dr. James P. Gills, the facility played a role in the local aerospace landscape for years.
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Key Facts
- ICAO Code: KRRF
- FAA LID: 3FD1
- Location: Odessa, Florida
- Closure Date: October 1, 2004
- Runway: Single asphalt runway (8/26) measuring 5,001 feet
- Peak Activity: 85,000 aircraft operations in 1997
Operational History and Infrastructure
At its peak, the Tampa Bay Executive Airport was a bustling site of activity. According to 1997 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) statistics, the airport handled 85,000 aircraft operations and served as the home base for 106 aircraft. The facility featured a single asphalt runway, designated as 8/26, with a length of 5,001 feet (1,524 meters), situated at an elevation of 41 feet above mean sea level (AMSL).
Airport Specifications Summary
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| IATA Code | None |
| ICAO Code | KRRF |
| FAA LID | 3FD1 |
| Coordinates | 28°11′16″N 082°37′32″W |
| Runway Surface | Asphalt |
| Based Aircraft (1997) | 106 |
Closure and Decommissioning
The airport officially closed on October 1, 2004. Following the closure, hangars and other buildings were removed. While the runway remained visible as late as March 2007—marked with standard FAA Xs to indicate it was closed to traffic—it was gradually cleared to make way for new construction. By 2017, the final remaining portion of the runway had been removed to facilitate the development of an industrial park.
The decision to close the facility was influenced by several factors. Its proximity to busy highways and residential areas led Pasco County officials to seek a closure strategy. Additionally, reports suggest the ownership group received a purchase offer significantly above the property's market value, coinciding with the owners' desire to exit a business prone to legal disputes.
Impact on Local Aviation Services
The closure forced the relocation of numerous businesses and private pilots. Many of the 100+ based customers found space at nearby airports, though some were forced to sell their aircraft. Key business transitions included:
- Jensen Aviation (flight school) and JJ Aeronautics (maintenance) relocated to Zephyrhills Municipal Airport.
- Hoover's Aircraft Refinishing ceased operations permanently.
- Bayflite, a medevac service, initially remained at the site for nearly a year after the official closure due to its centralized location and fast response times, before eventually repositioning operations to Community Hospital in New Port Richey.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the Tampa Bay Executive Airport close?
The airport was permanently closed on October 1, 2004.
Who owned the airport?
The airport was owned by Dr. James P. Gills and operated by Seven Eagles, Inc.
What happened to the runway after closure?
The runway was gradually demolished; by March 2007, most was gone except for 500 feet on the east end, and the final remnants were removed by 2017.
What is being built on the former airport site?
The site was slated for the construction of an industrial park.
Where did the based businesses move?
Jensen Aviation and JJ Aeronautics moved to Zephyrhills Municipal Airport, while Bayflite moved to Community Hospital in New Port Richey.