07/02/2026
Kissimmee Gateway Airport Cleared to Pursue International Flights Following Federal Approval
KISSIMMEE, Fla. — After years of planning and investment, the Kissimmee Gateway Airport has taken a major step toward becoming an international aviation gateway.
City of Kissimmee Government officials announced Tuesday that the airport has received preliminary approval from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Field Operations for a User Fee Facility (UFF) designation, allowing the airport to move forward with plans to eventually accommodate international arrivals and departures.
The designation, once finalized, would enable Customs and Border Protection officers to process international passengers on-site, opening new opportunities for commercial and private aviation while expanding the airport's role in Central Florida's transportation network.
Airport officials say the expansion could also help relieve congestion at Orlando International Airport by accommodating overflow international traffic during periods of high demand.
The approval is preliminary and remains contingent on the construction of a federally compliant Customs and Border Protection facility, along with the completion of a formal Memorandum of Understanding with the agency.
Under the agreement, the City of Kissimmee will fund the design, construction, equipment, furnishings, and security systems required for the inspection facility. Construction must begin within three years of the approval, with city officials anticipating work will start in 2027. Once construction begins, the facility is expected to become operational approximately two years later.
Throughout the process, airport officials will work with local CBP personnel to ensure the facility meets all federal operational and security requirements.
City leaders believe the designation will strengthen the regional economy by attracting additional international air service, corporate aviation activity, tourism, and private investment.
Officials also say the airport is well-positioned to capitalize on increasing travel demand from Latin American markets, including Brazil and Argentina, while supporting businesses that rely on international connectivity.
"We have worked for a long time to make this happen, and today's announcement reflects the persistence and dedication of everyone involved," Kissimmee City Manager Mike Steigerwald said. "This designation has real value for our residents, our businesses, and our regional partners."
Shaun Germolus, the city's director of aviation, said the designation represents an opportunity to capture business that has historically bypassed Kissimmee.
"We know we have missed economic opportunities, and we understand what the impact of this designation can truly be," Germolus said. "With on-site CBP services, we will be able to attract businesses that rely on international travel, support our partners by accommodating overflow passengers, and serve as a catalyst for economic development and tourism growth across the region."
Beyond international passenger service, city officials say the airport will continue pursuing designation as a Foreign Trade Zone, a move they believe would further expand its role in global commerce and logistics.
Located just minutes from Central Florida's major tourism destinations, Kissimmee Gateway Airport has invested in recent years to expand its airfield infrastructure and position itself for future aviation growth.
If the remaining federal requirements are met, the project would mark one of the most significant developments in the airport's history and establish Kissimmee Gateway Airport as a new entry point for international travelers visiting Central Florida.
