For the geographically challenged and trivia minded, the Hollywood in the name of the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport refers to the nearby community in Florida. It has nothing to do with the other Hollywood, although the airport was prominently featured in Revenge of the Nerds II: Nerds in Paradise. Rather, the airport was built on an old golf course that was between several communities at the time, and has been through several name changes before landing on its current moniker.
Yet what's in a name when you are one of the fastest growing airports in the country? The four terminals are home to an equal number of low-cost carriers, and the growth in that industry has been steadily increasing customer traffic. Additionally, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport gives travelers easy access to Port Everglades. Many who are taking Caribbean cruises can find good air + transfer packages through the airport here.
The airport is also extremely popular with charter flyers. As a result of the large numbers of private pilots who use the airport, Fort Lauderdale became the first airport to levy a usage fee on all incoming flights, including those by private pilots. This has not dimmed the popularity of the airport, however, and talks are underway to possibly add or at least extend one runway starting sometime late in 2009 when plans get final approval from the FAA.
Transportation to and from the airport is available from Broward Country Transit Route 1. This line connects with the Tri-Rail and Aventura in Miami-Dade county. A number of private shuttles and buses are also generally onsite from hotels and cruise companies - travelers may want to ask ahead if they book a hotel about pick up options. Short and long term parking options are available, although carpooling and use of the cell phone lot are encouraged.
