United Airlines is giving passengers the option to switch flights at no extra cost if they prefer not to land at the newly renamed President Donald J. Trump International Airport in Palm Beach, Florida.
The airline issued an internal memo to reservation agents instructing them to accommodate customers who object to the name change, previously known as Palm Beach International Airport. Travelers can opt for nearby alternatives such as Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport or Miami International Airport as an even exchange, subject to availability.
The memo, obtained by aviation blog Live and Let’s Fly, includes suggested language for agents: “I understand that you’d rather not fly to this airport anymore. We can look at nearby airports like Fort Lauderdale or Miami instead. Is that an acceptable alternative?”
The name change took effect recently under state law, honoring the sitting president. The airport’s three-letter code is expected to transition from PBI to DJT on August 18. United is updating its systems accordingly.
The move comes after some passengers voiced strong objections to the renaming through the airport’s contact forms, with complaints ranging from political disagreement to concerns about the change itself. Airport officials have noted that the renaming does not affect operations, ownership or governance.
Palm Beach International serves millions of travelers annually as a key gateway to South Florida. While some airports have been renamed after presidents in the past, this marks the first time an active president has an airport named in his honor during his term.
United Airlines has not issued a public statement on the policy, but the internal guidance reflects an effort to maintain customer satisfaction amid the controversy. Other carriers have not announced similar accommodations.
The situation highlights ongoing public divisions over symbolic naming decisions in public infrastructure. Airport officials emphasize that the facility continues normal operations and urge travelers to check with their airlines for any changes.
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