News | Port St. Lucie

Palm Beach International Airport Renaming Bill Advances in Florida Legislature

February 25, 2026
2:18 pm

Florida lawmakers have advanced a bill to rename Palm Beach International Airport (KPBI) as President Donald J. Trump International Airport, a move that has drawn statewide attention and sparked political debate. The proposed change awaits approval from Governor Ron DeSantis and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), with potential implementation as early as July 2026. The main keyword, Palm Beach International Airport, is central to this legislative development.

Palm Beach International Airport Name Change Bill Progress

The Florida Senate passed SB 706 on February 19, 2026, by a 25-11 vote, following an 81-30 approval in the House earlier in the week, according to official legislative records. All opposing votes came from Democratic lawmakers. The bill would officially rename Palm Beach International Airport (KPBI) to President Donald J. Trump International Airport, contingent on the governor’s signature and FAA approval.

The legislation also codifies the names of Florida’s seven major commercial airports, but only KPBI would receive a new designation if the measure is enacted. According to the bill text, the change would take effect upon completion of a rights agreement for the use of the Trump name and federal approval.

Governor and FAA Approval Required for Palm Beach International Airport Renaming

Governor Ron DeSantis’ office told the Associated Press that he has not yet received the bill but will review it in its final form. As of February 20, 2026, no decision has been announced by the governor. The FAA must also approve the name change before it can be implemented, according to FAA procedures.

If both the governor and the FAA approve, the renaming of Palm Beach International Airport could become official as early as July 2026. Officials stated that details may be updated as the legislative and regulatory processes continue. In the meantime, regional airports across Florida are also expanding and updating their services, such as the recent announcement that Vero Beach Regional Airport is welcoming American Airlines and expanding service with three carriers.

Estimated Costs and Funding for Renaming Palm Beach International Airport

According to legislative budget analyses, rebranding costs for the airport could reach up to $5.5 million. These expenses include updating signage, websites, marketing materials, and other infrastructure. The Florida Senate has proposed an initial allocation of $2.75 million, with further funding negotiations ongoing.

Officials reported that the final cost will depend on the scope of changes required by the FAA and the timeline for implementation. The bill does not require the airport to pay royalties or licensing fees for the Trump name, according to statements from the Trump Organization. Nearby airports are also experiencing notable changes, with JetBlue flights set to begin at Vero Beach Regional Airport in December 2025 as part of ongoing regional growth.

Trump Organization Files Trademarks Related to Airport Renaming

Shortly before the legislative votes, the Trump Organization filed trademark applications for “DJT,” “Donald J. Trump International Airport,” and “President Donald J. Trump International Airport.” These filings cover airport infrastructure, merchandise, clothing, and related uses.

The Trump Organization stated that the family will not charge airports a fee to use the Trump name, emphasizing that the trademark filings are intended to protect what they describe as the “most infringed trademark in the world.” According to the Associated Press, the organization seeks exclusive rights to use the Trump name on airport buildings, shuttle buses, and merchandise.

Political Debate Surrounding Palm Beach International Airport Renaming

The proposal to rename Palm Beach International Airport has generated significant debate among Florida lawmakers. Republican sponsors, including Sen. Debbie Mayfield (R-Melbourne) and Sen. Danny Burgess (R-Zephyrhills), cited former President Trump’s second-term achievements, such as border security, deportations, tax relief, and his economic ties to Florida through properties like Mar-a-Lago and Trump International Golf Club.

Democratic opponents, including Sen. Lori Berman (D-Boca Raton), Sen. Tina Polsky (D-South Florida), and Sen. LaVon Bracy Davis (D-Ocoee), criticized the bill as divisive and premature. They referenced Trump’s impeachments, ongoing controversies, and a Palm Beach Post poll showing over 90% reader opposition to the name change. Several lawmakers urged waiting until after Trump’s term before considering such a designation. As air travel options continue to grow in the region, travelers can also explore the latest Breeze Airways destinations from Vero Beach Regional Airport launching September 2025.

Palm Beach International Airport’s Location and Historical Context

Palm Beach International Airport is located in unincorporated Palm Beach County near West Palm Beach. The airport serves a region historically known for its Democratic-leaning electorate, though the area has seen an influx of high-profile Trump supporters in recent years. Trump owns the Mar-a-Lago resort in Palm Beach, where the Trump family maintains private quarters.

If the bill becomes law, Trump would join a select group of U.S. presidents with commercial airports named after them. This group currently includes Ronald Reagan, John F. Kennedy, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Gerald Ford, Abraham Lincoln, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and Theodore Roosevelt.

Frequently Asked Questions About Palm Beach International Airport

What is the proposed new name for Palm Beach International Airport?

The proposed new name is President Donald J. Trump International Airport, according to the bill passed by Florida lawmakers.

How much will it cost to rename Palm Beach International Airport?

Officials estimate the rebranding could cost up to $5.5 million, covering signage, websites, and other updates, according to legislative budget reports.

Are there other airports in the United States named after presidents?

Yes, several commercial airports are named after former presidents, including Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Can you use the Trump name on airport property without paying fees?

According to the Trump Organization, airports will not be charged fees or royalties to use the Trump name. Trademark filings are intended to protect the name from unauthorized use.