Key West Florida Airport Code: Guide to EYW and Private Jet Travel

Planning a trip to Key West starts with knowing where to land. This guide covers everything travelers need to know about the Key West, Florida airport code, the airport itself, and how private jet charter compares to commercial flights for reaching the island.

Key Takeaways

• The Key West, Florida airport code is EYW, the IATA designation for Key West International Airport. The ICAO code is KEYW.

• EYW is the primary commercial airport for Key West, FL, and the lower Florida Keys, having served approximately 870,000 passengers in 2018.

• The airport supports both commercial airlines and private jet charter traffic, with Jettly offering on-demand access to private aircraft into and out of Key West International Airport.

• EYW's compact layout, short walking distances, and quick processing make it convenient for private and commercial travelers alike.

• Travelers heading to Key West or the wider Florida Keys can save time and gain flexibility by flying privately into EYW via Jettly's digital charter platform.

Understanding the Key West Airport Code EYW

The Key West, Florida airport code is EYW. This is the IATA code for Key West International Airport, while pilots and flight planners use the ICAO code KEYW. Key West International Airport is designated as KEYW in FAA records, with the FAA location identifier also listed as EYW.

Airport codes serve different purposes. IATA codes (three letters) appear on boarding passes, baggage tags, and booking platforms. ICAO codes (four letters) are used in flight plans, air traffic control, and navigation systems. Charter platforms like Jettly use both: IATA for customer-facing bookings and ICAO for regulatory and operational coordination, often paired with tools like an airport locator to identify suitable departure and arrival points.

Commercial air service to Key West dates back to the mid-20th century, and the EYW code has appeared in airline timetables and reservation systems for decades.

Key West International Airport is located at 3491 South Roosevelt Boulevard on the east side of the island, adjacent to the Atlantic shoreline. Approaches over water give pilots clear sightlines, and the airport sits at just 3 feet of elevation above sea level. EYW is the primary air gateway to Key West, FL, and the lower Florida Keys, serving scheduled airlines, general aviation, and private jet charters.

Key West International Airport (EYW) Overview

Key West International Airport is the primary airport for Key West, FL, linking the city to major hubs across Florida and the USA. The airport serves numerous cities including Atlanta and New York through nonstop and connecting flights.

The terminal is compact: a single-passenger building with check-in counters, TSA security screening, approximately eight gates, limited retail and food options, and outdoor viewing areas. Walking distances are short, and navigation is straightforward.

Key West's traffic began increasing in the late 2000s following terminal upgrades and the introduction of low-cost jet service. Key West Airport served approximately 870,000 passengers in 2018, up from under 400,000 in the early 2000s. Southwest Airlines ended service to Key West in 2014, but growth continued through other carriers.

Airlines currently serving EYW include Delta, American, United, and Silver, with nonstop routes to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Tampa, Atlanta, Charlotte, and seasonal connections to northeastern hubs.

EYW operates a single runway (09/27) at 5,075 feet long and 100 feet wide. This coastal, space-constrained layout limits heavy aircraft operations, which makes private jet charter particularly attractive for schedule flexibility and direct routing, and prompts many travelers to research how much it costs to rent a private jet for trips into EYW.

Facilities, Services, and Ground Transportation at EYW

Key West International Airport offers essential services for both commercial and private travelers, with quick access to downtown Key West and the rest of the Florida Keys.

Passenger amenities include:

• Ticket counters with daily operating hours (note that the airport does not accept cash or checks at the ticket counter)

• TSA security screening and baggage claim

• Passengers can check bags up to 4 hours before departure

• Basic dining, bar options, and small retail shops

• Pet and animal relief areas coordinated through agents or airport staff

Ground transportation from EYW:

• Short taxi and rideshare trips (roughly 10–15 minutes) to historic Old Town Key West

• Hotel shuttles offered by some resorts along Key West and Stock Island

• Public or shuttle services along US-1 toward the middle and upper keys

Key West International Airport is 2 miles east of the commercial center, making it one of the most conveniently located airports in Florida.

Rental cars are available from multiple national brands with counters in or near the terminal. Renting is ideal for travelers continuing up the Florida Keys to Marathon, Islamorada, or Key Largo. Short-term and long-term parking lots sit adjacent to the terminal, though spaces can fill during peak winter and holiday seasons.

Due to the compact size of Key West airport, travelers often enjoy shorter check-in and security lines than at larger hubs-especially when using private terminals and FBOs operated by providers like Signature Aviation, or leveraging Jettly's private jet memberships for streamlined planning.

Planning Commercial Flights vs Private Jet Charter to Key West

Travelers can reach Key West International Airport either via scheduled commercial flights or on-demand private jet charter, each with different trade-offs.

Commercial travel typically involves:

• Connecting through Florida hubs like Miami (MIA), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Orlando (MCO), or Tampa (TPA)

• Limited nonstop availability from some U.S. cities, especially outside peak seasons

• Potential for delays due to EYW's single runway, coastal weather, and airspace congestion

Why business and leisure travelers choose private charter into EYW:

• Ability to fly direct from smaller regional airports without scheduled service to Key West, using a variety of methods for getting a seat on a private jet

• Custom departure times and quick turnarounds for weekend getaways or business day trips

• More privacy and comfort for families, corporate teams, or groups heading to resorts in Key West and the lower Florida Keys, especially when comparing top private jet charter companies to find the best fit

Jettly's digital marketplace gives users access to a large inventory of turboprops, light jets, midsize jets, and larger private charter aircraft that can operate into EYW. Travelers can use the private jet cost calculator or a dedicated jet card flight cost estimator for instant estimates on routes like New York to Key West or Atlanta to Key West. The platform lets users compare aircraft categories based on range, cabin size, and luggage space for trips involving golf bags, diving equipment, or extended-stay luggage, and also explore structured jet card programs for frequent travel.

Private flights arranged through Jettly operate with licensed air carriers regulated under Federal Aviation Administration rules. Well-established FBOs at EYW handle discreet arrivals and departures.

Example use cases:

• Corporate offsite retreat flying a team directly to Key West for meetings and incentive travel

• Last-minute family escape from the Northeast during winter, flying nonstop to EYW without changing planes in Miami

• Time-sensitive travel for boat shows, fishing tournaments, or events like Fantasy Fest, where understanding private jet rental costs helps groups budget effectively

Key West, Marathon, and Other Florida Keys Airports

While Key West International Airport (EYW) is the primary commercial gateway, the Florida Keys are also served by other airports that support general aviation and private flights.

Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH):

• Located in Marathon in the Middle Keys, roughly halfway between Key Largo and Key West

• Functions primarily as a general aviation airport, handling private aircraft, air ambulance, fire and emergency response, and some charter operations

• Plays an important role in supporting local business, tourism, and emergency services across the middle Florida Keys in Monroe County

Travelers staying in Marathon, Duck Key, or Islamorada may find private flights into MTH more convenient, and international visitors can review key considerations on flying private jets internationally when planning longer itineraries that connect through Florida. Those focused on Key West, FL and nearby islands usually use EYW as their main arrival point. Jettly can source suitable aircraft for both airports depending on runway length, payload, and passenger requirements.

Within flight planning data, EYW (ICAO KEYW) appears among nearby instrument airports, enabling modern navigation procedures that enhance safety for both commercial and private flights. For some itineraries, pilots and charter clients may consider alternative airports on the Florida mainland-such as Miami or Fort Lauderdale-as backup options during adverse weather, drawing on broader knowledge of charter airlines and private aviation options when choosing routings.

Understanding the airport codes-EYW for Key West and MTH for Marathon-helps travelers and charter planners choose the best Florida Keys arrival point.

Future Development and Capacity at Key West International Airport

Key West International Airport has been working under a long-term master plan to accommodate rising passenger demand while managing environmental and space constraints on this page of Monroe County's development priorities.

Master plan highlights:

• Outlines short-, medium-, and long-term development projects, including terminal enhancements, airfield safety improvements, and support facilities

• Passenger traffic is expected to grow at 2.4% annually over a 20-year horizon

Key West International Airport expects 1.1 to 1.2 million passengers by 2035. Due to limited land area, the airport is expected to operate at or near practical capacity during peak tourist seasons by that point.

Planned upgrades of interest:

• Expanded or modernized terminal areas to improve passenger flow

• Technology improvements for security screening and baggage handling

• Enhancements to general aviation and FBO facilities serving private jet and charter customers

For travelers, rising demand means potential for busier commercial flights, fuller parking lots, and higher seasonal fares. This increases the value of private charter for time-sensitive travelers who want more control over schedules and routing into EYW, especially when applying strategies for booking the cheapest private jet flights during peak seasons. Efficient flight scheduling, appropriately sized aircraft, and options like empty-leg charters or crowdsourced private jet flights with shared seats through platforms like Jettly can help reduce wasted positioning flights and contribute to more efficient operations.

FAQ

What is the main airport code for Key West, Florida?

The primary airport code for Key West, Florida is EYW, the IATA designation for Key West International Airport. Pilots and flight planners use the ICAO code KEYW in aviation systems.

Is EYW the only airport in the Florida Keys?

EYW is the main commercial airport, but not the only one. Florida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH) in Marathon serves general aviation and charter traffic. Additional small airstrips and seaplane bases exist for specialized operations throughout the Keys.

How far is Key West International Airport from downtown Key West?

EYW is roughly 2–3 miles from Old Town Key West, typically a 10–15 minute drive by taxi, rideshare, or hotel shuttle along Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, depending on traffic.

Can private jets land at EYW, and what size aircraft can the airport handle?

Private jets and turboprops regularly use Key West International Airport. The runway accommodates many light and midsize jets. Some larger, heavier aircraft may face performance restrictions due to runway length and temperature. Travelers often select light or midsize types for EYW via platforms like Jettly.

How can I book a private flight to Key West or the Florida Keys?

Travelers can use Jettly's digital platform to search routes, compare aircraft options, and obtain instant pricing, supported by detailed guidance on affordable private jet charter costs. Learn more about how to charter a private jet or start exploring options, including Jettly as a cost-effective alternative to NetJets. Ready to experience private travel on your terms? Explore flight options, compare private jet memberships, or request a quote at https://www.jettly.com.

Conclusion

Key West International Airport, known by its airport code EYW, serves as the primary entry point to the Florida Keys, providing easy access for both commercial and private travelers. Its compact layout, growing passenger traffic, and strategic location make it a preferred choice for those visiting Key West and nearby islands. Private jet charter through platforms like Jettly provides unmatched flexibility, direct routes, and time savings, especially valuable given the airport's runway limitations and seasonal demand. Whether flying commercially or privately, understanding EYW and its services helps travelers make informed decisions for a seamless journey to this unique destination.

Experience private travel tailored to your needs. Discover flight options or get a personalized quote at https://www.jettly.com.