Sanford Airport Mini Guide
Where is Sanford?
Sanford is a little city hidden away in the sphere of influence controlled by
Orlando. Whilst not having anything of the merit of
Disney World to attract huge numbers of visitors to it, the city has retained an air of calm and quiet gentility which instead attracts those that may want to visit the big sights but still have the chance to relax. Boating enthusiasts are among those who flock there for there are several lakes including Lake Monroe and the city is on the edge of the St John River basin giving access to sheltered sailing all year round.
Is it Easy to reach Sanford?
It’s very easy, especially if you’re flying into Florida from the
UK. Thomson fly directly to Sanford from various UK destinations operating flights all year round. Whilst much further away from Orlando and its attractions, the airport is used as an arrival point for Disney, Universal Studios and Epcot. For Sanford, the distance between airport and city is under twenty minutes and a variety of ways exist to get you there.
What is the Airport Like?
It’s a compact and modern airport with reasonable facilities and the addition of a ‘Welcome Area’ which is a glorified arrivals hall, intended to relax you after your flight and introduce you to the delights of Sanford and central Florida. There are two terminals, one domestic and one international with the domestic one leading into the international before exiting into the transportation area. Each terminal has a single short concourse into which you’ll step from a jet bridge from your plane.
What do I do When I’m in the Airport?
Once disembarked, international passengers will need to pass through security for checks before being directed down to the baggage reclaim area and the arrivals hall. If you want to spend a little time at the airport, perhaps if you’re not being collected until later, there’s the Welcome Centre which has comfy seats, a café bar and internet connection. Those in a hurry can find out all they need to know about onward transportation at the airport information desk in the main arrivals hall before heading out of the terminal to catch a local bus or taxi to Sanford centre.
Car hire desks are located in the main hall too but some companies may require you to board a shuttle to take you to the rental garage. You won’t find a bank at the airport although there is a small currency exchange bureau and several ATMs.
And on the day I Leave Sanford?
You’ll need to check in your bags before investigating the eating and shopping opportunities there. You’ll discover that there’s not a huge range to choose from but the shops do include a duty free outlet for international passengers, a gift shop, cosmetics outlet and toy shop. Dining is a little limited with two bars run by Budweiser and a food court which sells only light snacks and sandwiches. For those who prefer peace and quiet whilst waiting for their flight or those that need to work, the Royal Palm Lounge in the Welcome Centre is a great place to unwind or work in comfort and peace.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (airport code SFB) is one of the busiest airports in the world, but still behind the main Orlando Airport in popularity. While Orlando Airport attracts so many customers to theme parks such as Universal Studios Florida. Orlando Sanford Airport is used for flights to Europe, particularly the UK.
Furthermore the Las Vegas based Allegiant Air has a hub there. And one of the factors which contributes to a huge amount of landings and take offs at Orlando Sanford Airport is that it is greatly used for flight training. Because Orlando Sanford Airport was an old naval airport it periodically held flight shows.