Tampa International Airport agency keeps high bond rating, but Moody's issues 'negative outlook'

The agency that operates Tampa International Airport maintained its high-quality rating from Moody's Investor Service for $47-million in bonds going on sale next month.

But Moody's issued a "negative outlook,'' warning there's at least a 50-50 chance the Aa3 rating will slip lower over the next year to 18 months, said spokesman John Cline.

Moody's believes weak demand for leisure air travel will continue to hold down passenger traffic — and revenue — at TIA.

Louis Miller, executive director of the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, said he was glad the agency kept its rating despite problems affecting airports and airlines nationwide.