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Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis on Monday signed legislation that could rename Palm Beach International Airport after Donald Trump, setting up a high-profile change that now awaits federal approval.
If cleared by the Federal Aviation Administration, the airport would be renamed “President Donald J. Trump International Airport,” with the change scheduled to take effect July 1.
The measure would also require all official state records, signage and maps to reflect the new name.
From PBI to “DJT”
The airport, commonly known by its code PBI, would also receive a new designation under the plan: “DJT.”
Supporters say the change reflects Trump’s ties to Palm Beach, where his Mar-a-Lago estate is located and where he has long maintained a political and personal presence.
The legislation was introduced by state Rep. Meg Weinberger, a Republican who has backed similar efforts to honor the president locally.
Part of a broader branding push
The airport renaming follows other efforts to attach Trump’s name to public and institutional landmarks.
Earlier this year, a nearby roadway was renamed “President Donald J. Trump Boulevard,” stretching between the airport and Mar-a-Lago.
Beyond Florida, Trump and his allies have pursued branding efforts tied to federal institutions and programs, including proposals involving the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and the United States Institute of Peace, as well as administration-linked initiatives such as a “gold card” visa program.
Ethics concerns and financial questions
Florida Democrats and ethics watchdogs have raised concerns about whether the renaming could create financial benefits for Trump or his family, particularly after trademark applications tied to the Trump name were filed by entities connected to the Trump Organization.
Critics argue that even indirect financial or branding advantages could blur the line between public infrastructure and private interests.
In response, a spokesperson for the Trump Organization said the president and his family would not receive any royalties, licensing fees or financial compensation from the airport renaming.
The legislation itself specifies that the use of Trump’s name would come at no cost to the state or local government.
Licensing agreement required
The bill requires a formal licensing agreement with the Trump Organization to use the president’s name.
Company officials say they are willing to grant that permission without charge, describing the move as a gesture toward Trump’s “hometown county.”
Federal approval still needed
Before the change can take effect, the FAA must approve the renaming and any associated updates to airport identifiers.
Such changes are typically subject to federal review to ensure consistency across aviation systems, including mapping, navigation and air traffic control operations.
What comes next
If approved, the renaming would mark one of the most prominent examples of a sitting president’s name being attached to major public infrastructure.
The move is likely to draw continued political scrutiny, particularly as debates over ethics, branding and the use of public assets intensify ahead of the 2026 election cycle.
