Tallahassee Airport Renamed to Honor Legendary Florida State Coach

The city pays tribute to Bobby Bowden, who built the Seminoles into a college football powerhouse.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 1:23am

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A cubist, geometric painting featuring overlapping planes of garnet and gold, capturing the energy and movement of a Florida State football game or celebration in an abstract, deconstructed style.The renaming of Tallahassee's airport honors the lasting impact of legendary Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden, whose innovative and aggressive teams defined the program for decades.Tallahassee Today

Tallahassee International Airport has been officially renamed to honor legendary Florida State football coach Bobby Bowden, who passed away in 2021 at the age of 91. Bowden led the Seminoles for 34 seasons, winning 316 games and three national championships. The renaming, announced by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, is a tribute to Bowden's immense impact on the university and the city of Tallahassee.

Why it matters

Bobby Bowden is widely regarded as the architect of Florida State's football success, transforming the program into a national powerhouse during his tenure from 1976 to 2009. The airport renaming is a fitting way for the city and state to honor Bowden's legacy and the indelible mark he left on college football.

The details

Bowden led the Seminoles to 12 ACC championships and two national titles in 1993 and 1999. He is the second-winningest coach in Division I history, trailing only Joe Paterno. Bowden's teams were known for their explosive offenses and aggressive defenses, making Florida State a must-watch program during the 1980s and 1990s.

  • Bobby Bowden passed away on August 8, 2021, at the age of 91.
  • The renaming of Tallahassee International Airport was announced by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on April 14, 2026.

The players

Bobby Bowden

Legendary head football coach who led the Florida State Seminoles for 34 seasons, winning 316 games and three national championships.

Ron DeSantis

The current Governor of Florida, who announced the renaming of Tallahassee International Airport to honor Bobby Bowden.

Mike Norvell

The current head football coach of the Florida State Seminoles, who is looking to return the program to the level of consistency established by Bowden and former coach Jimbo Fisher.

Jimbo Fisher

Former head football coach of the Florida State Seminoles, who won a national championship with the team in 2013.

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The takeaway

The renaming of Tallahassee International Airport to honor Bobby Bowden is a fitting tribute to the legendary coach who built Florida State into a college football powerhouse. Bowden's impact on the university and the city of Tallahassee will be cemented in this permanent recognition, ensuring his legacy lives on for generations to come.