Drivers traveling on Interstate 95 near Palm Beach International Airport are getting an early look at one of South Florida’s most closely watched rebrands.
Road crews have begun replacing highway signs near the airport with new signage directing travelers to President Donald J. Trump International Airport, ahead of the official name change scheduled to take effect on July 9, 2026.
New signs have appeared along I-95 as the airport begins a phased transition away from the Palm Beach International Airport name. The change follows legislation approved by the Florida Legislature and signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis earlier this year. Airport officials say the required name change becomes effective July 9, while updates to signs, branding and other public-facing materials will continue in phases.
The rebranding is expected to include changes to airport signage, logos, marketing materials and other visual elements. Airport officials previously estimated the total cost at approximately $5.5 million. Florida’s 2026 budget includes $2.75 million toward the transition, with other costs expected to be addressed through airport funds or other available sources.
The change goes beyond the airport’s public name. According to the airport’s official transition information, the FAA location identifier is scheduled to change from PBI to DJT, while the ICAO identifier is expected to change from KPBI to KDJT, effective July 9. The separate IATA code used by airlines and passengers is also expected to transition on a different timeline, making it important for travelers to continue checking official airline and airport information during the rollout.
Despite the new name, Palm Beach County will continue to own and operate the airport. The county also approved a trademark licensing agreement connected to the use of the Trump name and branding. That agreement has drawn scrutiny over the level of control tied to marketing and commercial use of the airport’s new identity.
The rebrand is also facing legal challenges. At least one lawsuit has sought to block the renaming, while another challenge filed by attorney and congressional candidate Victoria Doyle targets Palm Beach County’s trademark agreement.
The name change has divided local opinion. Supporters see it as a tribute to Donald Trump, whose Mar-a-Lago residence is located nearby. Critics have questioned the cost, political nature of the decision and the trademark arrangement surrounding a publicly owned airport.
For now, the biggest visible change is already happening on the highway. As July 9 approaches, travelers across South Florida will begin seeing more signs of the airport’s new identity.
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