SFO (San Francisco) to TPA (Tampa) flights arrive on time 86% of the time. The most reliable airline on this route is United Airlines at 87%. The average delay is 55 minutes. Delays on this route are most often caused by air traffic and busy airspace.
Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Updated March 2026.SFO → TPA
SFO (San Francisco) to TPA (Tampa)
SFO → TPA on-time performance by month
24
25
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Worse
Better
This route is usually on time. About 86% of flights arrive on schedule.
Delays on this route are most often caused by air traffic and busy airspace.
Accurate?
United Airlines is significantly more reliable on this route at 87% on time vs Alaska Airlines at 68%.
Airline Comparison
United Airlines leads at 87% on time; Alaska Airlines trails at 68%.
Accurate?
Good to know
Departing from SFO
80% on timeExpect ~20 min sitting on the taxiway after your gate pushes back. SFO has long runway queues.
TSA is currently ~14 min. Best time: 4 AM (about 5 min).
Arriving at TPA
79% on timeWhen flights into TPA are late, the average delay is 70 minutes. Build buffer if you have ground plans.
If connecting at TPA: TSA is ~10 min right now. Allow at least 60 minutes for a domestic connection.
TPA has a 2.1% cancellation rate — keep the airline app handy for rebooking.
Flight cancelled or delayed?
Check what United Airlines owes you — refund rights, action plan, complaint email. Free.
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Data last updated March 2026. Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics.