Tampa International Airport Installs 9-Foot AquaFence Flood Barrier to Protect Electrical Infrastructure

Tampa International Airport Boosts Storm Defense with First-of-its-Kind Flood Barrier in Florida

Tampa International Airport has installed a 9-foot AquaFence system around its airfield electrical vault, marking the first time an airport in Florida has implemented this type of storm surge protection. The $1.9 million barrier aims to safeguard critical airport operations from potential flooding, a concern highlighted by past storm events.

This new flood defense system protects two buildings housing the airport's essential electrical generation power. This infrastructure is vital for airfield lighting, signs, runway operations, and other controls. Airport officials emphasized that a disruption in this area would severely impact airport functions.

Understanding the AquaFence System

The AquaFence system is designed for rapid deployment, capable of being erected within eight to twelve hours before an anticipated storm. Patrik Hansson, President of AquaFence, explained that the system works like a laptop, becoming more stable with increased water pressure on the waterside. He also noted that the paneling on each AquaFence is customized for its specific location and can withstand winds up to 140 mph, a crucial feature for Florida's weather patterns.

Learning from Past Storms

The decision to install the AquaFence system followed unprecedented water levels observed near one of the airport's runways after Hurricanes Helene and Milton in 2024. These storms brought water higher than airport officials had ever seen before, underscoring the need for enhanced flood protection.

Ensuring Community Emergency Response

Dan Seeley, TPA's Director of Construction, highlighted the airport's role as an emergency response hub for the community. "The airport functions as an emergency response airport for the community and so, we need to make sure that our airport operations remain open and operational, pre-hurricane as well as post-hurricane," Seeley stated. This new flood barrier helps ensure the airport can continue to serve the region during and after severe weather events.