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NewsFox 13 News (WTVT) — All NewsSeptember 8, 2026Hillsborough County

Sarasota Bradenton International Airport Employees Recall President George W. Bush's Visit and Departure on September 11, 2001

Photo: Fox 13 News (WTVT) — All News

Airport employees at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport reflect on the events of September 11, 2001, when President George W. Bush's visit was interrupted by the terror attacks, leading to a security lockdown and an urgent departure on Air Force One. The retrospective highlights local staff memories, including tarmac evacuations, being aboard the aircraft during the attacks, and escorting the presidential motorcade back to the airport.

AviationHistoryLocal HistoryTransportation
Read the full story at Fox 13 News (WTVT) — All News

Why It Matters

Provides historical local accounts from airport workers who experienced the immediate security disruptions and evacuation at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport during the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Key Facts

  • President George W. Bush visited the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport on September 11, 2001.
  • Airport Executive Vice President Mark Stuckey was given a tour of Air Force One when the first aircraft struck the World Trade Center.
  • Secret Service agents placed Air Force One into lockdown and ordered ground workers to evacuate the airfield.
  • President Bush was rushed back to the airport via motorcade after the attacks.
  • Air Force One departed the airport using an evasive, near vertical take-off.
  • Twenty-five years later, the airport has undergone physical changes, including the construction of a new concourse near where Air Force One was parked.

Who's Mentioned

locationEmma E. Booker Elementary School“Location visited by the presidential motorcade after touchdown.”otherAir Force One“The presidential aircraft stationed at Sarasota Bradenton International Airport ”PersonMark Stuckey“Executive Vice President of Sarasota Bradenton International Airport who toured ”PersonKimberly Steele“Information Technology Systems Administrator at the airport.”OrganizationSarasota Bradenton International Airport“Airport where President George W. Bush arrived and departed on September 11, 200”PersonGeorge W. Bush“President of the United States during the September 11, 2001 attacks.”PersonShay Kumm“Ground worker assigned to escort the presidential motorcade.”