Punta Gorda Airport Seeks Restaurant Operator to Fuel Growth at Air Center
The Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) is inviting bids from experienced restaurant operators to establish a full-service dining experience at its thriving Air Center. This exciting opportunity comes as the airport witnesses a surge in demand for food services from employees, local residents, and aviators alike, fueled by the burgeoning commercial and residential development in the area.
A Prime Location with Stunning Views
The restaurant space, located within the 13,500-square-foot PGD Air Center, has already undergone partial construction, with $400,000 invested in essential infrastructure. This includes framing, a natural gas line, rough electrical and plumbing, lighting, and some kitchen equipment. To incentivize a successful partnership, PGD is offering an additional $200,000 in reimbursement upon completion of the buildout and obtaining a certificate of occupancy. The venue boasts an impressive 2,853 square feet with floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing breathtaking views of the runway, aircraft parking, and the constant buzz of aviation activity. An adjacent 534-square-foot events room can be combined with the dining area to accommodate larger gatherings.
A Hub of Aviation Activity
The PGD Air Center is a vibrant hub, featuring a welcoming lobby, conference room, events room, leased offices, flight schools, and a pilot lounge. It also provides essential services like private aircraft fueling, tie-downs, and ground handling. In 2023 alone, the airport recorded an impressive 103,252 takeoffs and landings, with nearly half utilizing the Air Center’s comprehensive amenities, including a 500,000-square-foot ramp and a self-serve fuel station.
A Lucrative Opportunity with No Direct Competitors
While several fast-food options exist south of PGD, there are no direct competitors offering sit-down dining within a 3-mile radius. This presents a unique opportunity for a restaurant operator to establish a dominant position in the market, catering to a diverse clientele. The Air Center’s convenient location, less than 3 miles from I-75’s Exit 164 and 4 miles from Exit 161, and just a 1.5-mile drive from PGD’s commercial terminal, which serves over 50 destinations and 2 million passengers annually, guarantees a steady stream of potential customers.
A Strategic Location and a Growing Aviation Hub
Nestled on a sprawling 2,000-acre property strategically located between Sarasota and Fort Myers, Punta Gorda Airport serves as a major aviation hub. It hosts Allegiant and Sun Country airlines, commuter and charter services, medical transportation, aircraft maintenance, corporate aviation, flight schools, and other aviation-related businesses. The airport’s continued growth and the increasing demand for services at the Air Center make this a highly attractive opportunity for a savvy restaurant operator looking to establish a thriving business in a high-traffic environment.