On May 5, 2024, the eyes of the racing world will be on Miami as Formula 1 heads to South Florida for the third year in a row. As a high-traffic event for private and business aviation, pilots, dispatchers, and flight crews should be prepared for a busy schedule, as everything from flight traffic to parking could be affected.  

So, how can you best prepare for a smooth trip planning experience? In this guide, we’ll discuss key factors you should consider as we approach one of the world’s premier racing events.

When is F1 Miami?

Are you planning a flight to South Florida for the event? 2024’s F1 Miami race will take place on May 5 at 4 PM; however, events such as practice and qualifying will take place across the entire race weekend (May 3-5). What does this mean for you and your flight crew? Depending on which race tickets your passengers have bought, the event could require a quick day trip or a full weekend in Miami. 
 
The race itself is held at the Miami International Autodrome in Miami Gardens, located around 20-30 minutes north of downtown. The peak periods of travel will likely be May 3, as fans arrive for the weekend’s festivities, and the immediate hours following the race on May 5. Will this be your first flight to Miami for Formula 1? See the post below for more context on what we’ll call ‘rush hour.’

What Factors Should Be Considered?

For pilots and flight crews, the flight to Miami on race weekend may look somewhat different than a typical day. How so? It all starts with the potential increase of planes in the air and on the ground in the Miami area.

Traffic

During periods of heavy traffic, it becomes even more important to follow safety policies and procedures. Depending on which airport you fly into, the possibilities for delays and holding patterns may increase during race weekend as the skies become busier. Don’t worry, though; our dedicated ground staff will go the extra mile on race day to ensure your arrival process is as efficient as possible.

Parking

The increase in traffic comes with an increase in private jets on the ground across the race weekend. So, how could this impact you when your wheels hit the tarmac? Upon arrival, be prepared to park nose-in until takeoff. This helps private aviation terminals like ours accommodate a larger number of aircraft.  
 
What about hangar space? Potentially available at several of our area terminals, it may be on a first-come-first-serve basis during high-traffic events. If you and your flight crew require a specific parking request, it is best to communicate this to the private aviation terminal team as far in advance of arrival as possible.

Communication

In the days and weeks leading up to F1 Miami, communication between dispatchers, private aviation terminals, and pilots is crucial to ensuring no surprises before arrival. At Signature Aviation, our customer service teams will work with flight crews to coordinate arrival times and provide the best service upon landing. This can be done through email and over the phone.

Hotels and Accommodation

Do you have a plan for where you’ll stay during race weekend? Accommodations during the F1 race weekend can get tight quickly. Our team recommends securing your room as soon as your travel dates are confirmed. 

 
Here are some preferred hotels offering special rates for event attendees, including pilots and flight crews. Additionally, consider checking out our tips for alternative transportation options to and from your hotel to avoid the post-race traffic snarl.

Refueling

Expect a busier than usual ramp during the F1 Miami event. To skip the last-minute rush, why not consider refueling upon arrival? It’s a simple switch that can ensure a smooth departure especially during a quick turn. Be sure to connect with the staff at your arrival airport to schedule this service so you and your crew can skip the hassle when preparing for takeoff.

Departure 

If your flight is scheduled to leave the Miami area on May 5 after the race, it’s best to mentally prepare for a delay. The amount of private jets lining up for takeoff across the city’s FBO terminals could lead to ground delays as ATC works to get every flight in the air safely. 

Where to Land on Race Weekend 

The Miami area is home to many private aviation terminals. Let’s break down five of our premier terminals that are the closest to Miami International Autodrome, going from north to south. Special event fees will be required for all flights landing at these locations during race weekend. See our Travel Alerts for more information.    

Signature KBCT: Boca Raton 

This state-of-the-art terminal includes a 17,000 sq. ft. terminal and 75,000 sq. ft. of hangar space. The facility also features a crew room, crew cars, showers, and a conference center to accommodate the flight crew on race day. Slots will not be required and third-party vehicles will be allowed on the ramp. 

For your passengers who will be in attendance, how long will the drive be? With limited traffic, the drive will be around an hour. If you’ve ever driven in Miami, however, it is smart to add additional time to account for event traffic and commuters.  

Signature KFLL: Fort Lauderdale 

Are you looking to land at a private aviation terminal that doesn't require a lengthy commute? Depending on traffic, Signature’s Fort Lauderdale private aviation terminal could put your passengers within a half hour or so of the Miami International Autodrome. Courtesy crew cars and crew transportation will be available. This location also features crew and snooze rooms if your team will remain at the airport on race day. 

Signature KOPF: Opa Locka 

Located just 13 miles north of Downtown Miami, Signature KOPF puts your passengers just 20 minutes from the heart of F1 Miami race weekend. With safety in mind, the Signature team will take part in walkthroughs of all operation plans from the flight crew to keep safety and security in focus. Third-party vehicles will not be allowed on the ramp during the event. 

With showers, snooze rooms, a lounge, and many more amenities, this private aviation terminal provides you, your flight crew, and passengers with an added touch of luxury during arrival and departure.  

Signature KMIA: Miami 

Because Miami International Airport is the largest of the five, Signature KMIA boasts the potential to handle 75 private jets, depending on size. Great highway access will put passengers 25-30 minutes from the Miami International Autodrome. There may be ramp construction during the event, however it is not expected to impact operations. 

Signature KMTB: Miami Executive 

Our Miami Executive Airport location features excellent amenities for flight crews to enjoy during the race. A billiard-style suite, movie room, and gym are just a few. During race day, an area will be reserved for pilots and flight crews to watch the race. For your passengers, keep the location’s distance from the event in mind. This location is a 45-minute drive away from Miami International Autodrome without traffic. 

FAQs 

What tips do you have when it comes to pre-planning a trip for F1 Miami? 

It is important to plan as early as possible and connect with one of Signature's south Florida locations to reserve space for F1 Miami. Consistent communication before, during, and after the flight is also important. 

What sets Signature Aviation apart during high-traffic events like F1 Miami? 

Our experienced teams have worked to create a one-of-a-kind experience for guests at F1 Miami for the last three years. We prioritize safety and will do our best to provide world-class service throughout the race weekend. 

How does Signature Aviation stay updated on specific event information? 

We practice robust communication with the FAA and airport authorities to keep flight crews and planners up-to-date on any potential impacts during the event weekend. Sign up for our travel alerts here for additional updates as they happen.