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August 13.2025

2 Minutes Read

A New Chapter for St. Pete-Clearwater Airport: Farewell to Director Tom Jewsbury

Travelers at St. Pete-Clearwater airport with digital signage.

Tom Jewsbury's Legacy at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport

After an impressive tenure of over 30 years, Tom Jewsbury, the director of St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport (PIE), has announced his retirement, effective October 1. His leadership has transformed PIE into one of the fastest-growing airports in the United States, attracting millions of travelers annually while maintaining a stellar reputation for customer service.

Unprecedented Growth and Modernization

Since joining the airport in 1994, Jewsbury has overseen significant changes, particularly after being appointed director in 2015. Under his guidance, capital improvement projects worth more than $197 million were completed, focusing on terminal upgrades and airfield enhancements, which ensured that PIE was well-prepared for future growth.

Impact on the Community

Jewsbury's focus wasn’t just on the airport itself; he fostered robust partnerships with airlines, notably with Allegiant Air, expanding travel options for the Tampa Bay region. His efforts in securing over $131 million in grants significantly bolstered the airport’s development capabilities, enhancing its service offerings for both leisure and business travelers.

Looking Forward: New Leadership on the Horizon

As Jewsbury steps down, Mark Sprague, the current deputy director, has been appointed as the interim airport director. The transition occurs at a pivotal time as the airport continues its trajectory of expansion and improvement. It's a time for both reflection on successes and anticipation of future developments.

The Significance of Jewsbury’s Contributions

Jewsbury stated, “Serving as Director of PIE has been the honor of my professional life.” His impactful leadership not only changed the physical landscape of the airport but also enriched the experiences of countless travelers. His commitment to enhancing passenger experience while nurturing community relationships is commendable and will certainly leave a lasting legacy.

What's Next for PIE?

As the airport enters a new phase, residents and travelers alike are curious about the upcoming leadership changes and potential innovations. With the right guidance, PIE is well-positioned to continue providing exceptional service and expanding its reach, further enhancing its role in the Suncoast travel landscape.

As we acknowledge Jewsbury's contributions, let us also embrace the opportunities that lie ahead for St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport. The new chapter in PIE’s journey promises to be filled with exciting possibilities and continued growth.

Development & Infrastructure

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ADVERTISE WITH US - Call (941) 312-1274

A New Chapter for St. Pete-Clearwater Airport: Farewell to Director Tom Jewsbury

Tom Jewsbury's Legacy at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport

Unprecedented Growth and Modernization

Impact on the Community

Looking Forward: New Leadership on the Horizon

The Significance of Jewsbury’s Contributions

What's Next for PIE?

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