A new proposal in the 2026 legislative session would take naming authority for Florida’s largest airports out of local hands and fix official names in state statute, including a potentially controversial change for Palm Beach International Airport.
The measure, SB 706, was filed by Senator Debbie Mayfield and leaders in the transportation committee.
The bill would define “major commercial service airports” as those classified as medium or large hub airports by the federal aviation administration and assign state-recognized names for each.
Under the current version of the proposal, the names of the major airports would be codified in law, from Orlando, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Miami to Tampa International.
The only change from current usage would be renaming Palm Beach International Airport to the Donald J. Trump International Airport.
Any reference to the airports in government records created after July 1, 2026, would be required to use these names once the law takes effect.
Supporters of the measure say it brings consistency to how Florida’s busiest airports are referenced and gives the state unified naming authority. Critics argue the change, especially the renaming of Palm Beach’s airport after a political figure, is divisive and raises questions about cost and branding.
The renaming of Palm Beach International Airport (PBI) to Donald J. Trump International Airport still hinges on approval from the federal aviation administration and an agreement with trademark holders for use of the name.
SB 706 has advanced through the Senate Transportation and Community Affairs committees and is currently moving through the Rules Committee ahead of floor consideration. supporters and detractors continue to voice strong opinions as the session unfolds.
Read the full bill details and status of SB 706 by clicking here.