ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando International Airport (MCO) was the site of electric aviation history this week when BETA Technologies, Republic Airways, Brickyard Connection, and Signature Aviation featured a demonstration on how BETA's electric aircraft and charging infrastructure will enable commercial operations across the state.

The event took place at Signature Aviation's Arnold Palmer Hangar, located on the West Ramp of Orlando International, and showcased the complete system that electric commercial aviation requires: the aircraft, the operators, and the infrastructure to support them. The partners outlined how near-term cargo, medical, and passenger missions will connect Florida's major metropolitan areas with the regional airports that serve them.

See the GOAA YouTube Channel for video.

“Orlando International Airport is proud to host this milestone demonstration and to work alongside partners like BETA, Republic Airways, Brickyard Connection, and Signature Aviation as electric aviation moves from promise to practical operations,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “As a Florida gateway, we’re focused on preparing the infrastructure and operating environment that will enable safe, reliable innovation to support near-term cargo, medical, and passenger missions. Today’s event will hopefully help to strengthen connectivity across the state.”

“Together, BETA, Republic Airways, and Signature Aviation are demonstrating how aircraft, infrastructure, and operators unite in a real-world environment to deliver repeatable missions and a clear path to commercialization for all-electric flight,” said Simon Newitt, head of sales and support at BETA. “BETA has flown more than 135,000 nautical miles in ALIA aircraft across the globe. That operational experience is what positions us to scale deliberately and efficiently for states like Florida, where near-term, short-haul cargo, medical, and passenger demand is strongest.”

Earlier this month, BETA, Republic and Brickyard completed three days of high-cadence electric flight demonstrations at Kissimmee Gateway Airport following a winter demonstration campaign in Burlington, VT, and Plattsburgh, NY, earlier this year. The companies state the back-to-back hot- and cold-weather demonstrations prove the readiness of electric commercial aviation to support cargo, logistics, passenger, and medical missions connecting Florida's major metropolitan areas with the regional airports that serve them.

Since announcing their partnership at the 2025 Paris Air Show, BETA and Republic have conducted advanced pilot training, operational integration, and performance evaluations along Florida’s I-4 corridor. Today's event translated that progress into a tangible demonstration of how the ALIA CTOL will operate in routine commercial service, connecting major metropolitan areas with the regional airports that serve them across cargo, logistics, passenger, and medical transport missions.

About BETA Technologies, Inc.

BETA (NYSE: BETA) is an aerospace and defense company designing, manufacturing and selling high-performance electric aircraft, advanced electric propulsion systems, components and charging systems to top operators worldwide. BETA has built and flown its family of ALIA aircraft, consisting of both conventional fixed-wing electric aircraft (the “ALIA CTOL”) and electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (the “ALIA VTOL”), more than 140,000 nautical miles, including multiple trips across the United States. BETA is deploying a network of charging infrastructure to enable the growing industry with more than 100 sites across the United States and internationally. BETA’s intentional approach to developing the enabling technologies necessary to electrify aviation unlocks lucrative aftermarket revenue opportunities over the life of each aircraft. These highly scalable, enabling technologies allow BETA to serve a customer base across cargo and logistics, defense, passenger and medical end markets and unlock cost-effective and safe missions. BETA was named the #1 company on TIME’s list of the World’s Top GreenTech Companies of 2025. Visit www.beta.team for more information about BETA and its products.

About Republic Airways Holdings Inc.

Founded in 1974, Republic Airways maintains a combined fleet of more than 300 Embraer 170/175 aircraft, and its airlines offer scheduled passenger service on approximately 1,300 daily scheduled flights to approximately 125 cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. The airlines provide fixed-fee flights operated under their codeshare partners’ brands: American Eagle, Delta Connection and United Express. The airlines employ more than 8,000 aviation professionals. Learn more at www.rjet.com.

About Signature Aviation

Signature Aviation is the world’s preeminent aviation hospitality company, offering exceptional experiences and essential support services to business and private aviation guests. The company’s large-scale infrastructure footprint enables travel, fosters human connection and is a critical global economic driver. Signature operates an industry-leading network of private aviation terminals, with over 200 locations covering key destinations in 27 countries across five continents and is the largest distributor of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in business aviation. The company also offers over 16 million square feet of carbon-neutral, multiuse office and hangar real estate globally, providing unique networkwide benefits and advantages to guests who base their aircraft at a Signature location. For more information, please visit www.signatureaviation.com.

Media Contacts

BETA:

• Nat Bol
• press@beta.team

Republic Airways:

• Jon Austin
• CorpComm@rjet.com

Signature Aviation:

• Jeff Penson
• Jeff.Penson@signatureaviation.com

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla. — The unofficial start of the summer travel season begins today with strong holiday passenger traffic expected at Florida’s busiest airport, Orlando International Airport (MCO).

While early forecasts are about 4 percent below 2025’s record-setting Memorial Day levels, nearly 902,000 travelers are still expected to move through MCO during the holiday travel period.

This year’s forecast reflects evolving airline operations, including schedule adjustments designed to maximize seating efficiency and changes in service from individual carriers. Even with those shifts, MCO continues to see robust holiday demand as travelers head out for the long weekend.

During the six-day travel period, Monday, May 25th, is expected to be the busiest day, with approximately 165,000 passengers.

“Memorial Day marks the beginning of one of the most exciting times of year for Orlando, and we are ready to welcome the hundreds of thousands of travelers who are choosing MCO as their gateway to Central Florida,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

Airport officials are encouraging passengers to plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience by being at the security checkpoint 2 hours before a flight and arrive at the gate 1 hour before departure.

With increased travel expected, parking facilities may fill during peak periods. Passengers are encouraged to plan parking in advance. Reserved Parking remains a convenient option, along with parking at the surface lots (Atlantis, Endeavour, and Discovery) and economy lots (North Park, South Park, and West Park Place).

Passengers can reserve parking ahead of time through Reserved Parking at MCO or use the Orlando MCO mobile app before arriving at the airport.

Helpful Memorial Day Travel Tips at MCO:

• Allow extra time and be patient. Busy holiday crowds may mean longer lines, and a little extra flexibility can help make your trip easier.

• Stay connected for the latest parking updates. Download the Orlando MCO app or visit our website at FlyMCO for real-time parking and security wait times. You can also follow us on Twitter @MCO or Facebook @FlyMCO.

• Time your passenger pickups for a smoother curbside experience. Ask your party to call when they are ready to be picked up from the curb, and use the Travel Plaza or the North and South free cell phone waiting areas while you wait. For everyone’s safety, please do not park on the shoulders of airport roadways.

• Check your bags for prohibited items before arriving. Firearms and other weapons are not permitted through security checkpoints.

• Please take security procedures seriously. Comments made during screening can lead to delays, so travelers should remain attentive and professional throughout the process.

• Keep your belongings with you at all times and do not accept items from strangers for transport.

• Add identification tags to the outside and inside of checked and carry-on luggage to help keep your bags easy to identify.

• If traveling with a pet or comfort animal, bring a leash. Pets will need to remain on a leash while carriers are screened by TSA.

For additional guidance, travelers are encouraged to review tips from the Transportation Security Administration before heading to the airport.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla. – Clear skies, curious kids, and plenty of horsepower helped Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) soar to new heights Saturday as more than 4,000 children, parents, and community members from across Central Florida turned out for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s (GOAA) second-ever Wings & Wheels Family Fest.

From helicopters and airplanes to sports cars, fire trucks, police cars, and specialty equipment, the airport ramp transformed into a larger-than-life playground where families got up close with the machines that move Central Florida by land and air. Guests explored interactive exhibits, climbed aboard vehicles and airports, and even got to meet some pilots, too!

The free community event featured a wide variety of aircraft, vehicles, and hands-on demonstrations from various community partners.

View our 2026 Wings and Wheels Recap video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WsAGbwyjGI

“Wings and Wheels is about opening our doors to the community and showing kids that aviation can be exciting, accessible, and full of opportunity,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “You never know when a moment like sitting in a cockpit, seeing a helicopter up close, or talking with a pilot could inspire a child to pursue a future career in aviation. Events like this help us connect with families while encouraging young people to stay curious, dream big, and explore possibilities they may have never considered before.”

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority wishes to give a special thank you to the 2026 exhibitors, including:

• AdventHealth
• Orlando Flight School
• Audacy Radio
• Orlando Ghostbusters
• Breeze Airways
• Orlando Health
• Cirrus
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)
• DeLorean Club of Florida
• Orlando Police Department
• Dream Cars 4 Kids
• Osceola County Fire Rescue
• Flight Sim Wings
• Osceola County Sheriff’s Office
• Florida Forest Service
• Peter John’s Ice Cream (Food Truck)
• Florida Highway Patrol
• SeaWorld Orlando / Aquatica
• Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
• Sheltair
• Gaucha (Food Truck)
• Signature Aviation
• JetBlue Airways
• Spectrum News 13
• Keepsake Photo Booth Rentals
• Toys for Tots
• Lee’s Famous Cheesesteaks (Food Truck)
• Twisted Food (Food Truck)
• MyFlight
• U.S. Transportation Security Administration
• OneBlood
• Velocity Rally
• Orange County Fire Rescue
• Walt Disney World Resort
• Orange County Public Library
• WESH NBC 2
• Orange County Public Schools
• WOFL FOX 35
• Orange County Sheriff’s Office
• Women in Aviation
• Orlando City / Orlando Pride Soccer
• WUCF PBS-TV
• Orlando Executive Airport (ORL)
• …and more!
• Orlando Fire Department

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) today announced during its monthly Board meeting that ZIPAIR will once again offer nonstop passenger service between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tokyo’s Narita International Airport (NRT), with three additional open passenger charter flights scheduled for August 8, 13, and 18.

The additional flights are in response to the tremendous success of ZIPAIR’s inaugural nonstop service between the two cities earlier this year. The February/March flights marked a historic milestone as the first nonstop open passenger charter operation between Florida and the Asia Pacific region.

Bookings will be available beginning in mid-June.

The new flight offerings will continue to build efforts to establish regular scheduled service between two of the world’s most visited destinations.

“The excitement surrounding ZIPAIR’s first flights exceeded expectations and sent a clear message that travelers want this connection,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages MCO. “The return of service is an exciting milestone and another sign that Orlando continues to strengthen its position as a truly global gateway.”

The nonstop flights represent more than 30 years of efforts to establish regularly scheduled service between Orlando and Tokyo.

“The success of ZIPAIR’s inaugural flights validated years of work and collaboration among our Air Service Development team and valued tourism and community partners,” said Vicki Jaramillo, Chief Commercial Officer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “Travelers have embraced this service, and we are optimistic that this momentum will continue to create opportunities for future growth.”

During the past few years, international traffic at MCO has grown, resulting in approximately 1.4 million more international visitors in 2025 than in 2023.

As Florida’s busiest airport, the 9th busiest in the U.S., and the world’s 25th busiest, MCO could be on the brink to welcome even more international visitors in 2026.

ZIPAIR operates out of MCO’s Terminal C. For more information or tickets, please visit ZIPAIR.

Board Approves Grant Agreement for Roadway Improvement

Additionally, during Wednesday’s meeting, the GOAA Board approved to accept a Public Transportation Grant Agreement (PTGA) for Orlando International Airport (MCO) from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

This is an FDOT grant agreement providing pass-through funding from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

The $2.5 million grant will support improvements to Jeff Fuqua Boulevard and Station Loop Road at MCO as part of efforts to improve roadway efficiency.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla.- Orlando International Airport (MCO) has earned the prestigious Level 2 Airport Customer Experience Accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI), achieving a major milestone that recognizes MCO’s commitment to creating a world-class journey for every traveler.

MCO is now among 16 U.S. airports, and the only one in Florida, to earn ACI’s Customer Experience Accreditation. The Level 2 accreditation acknowledges MCO’s clear customer experience strategy, data-driven planning, collaboration across airport departments, and the tools that help identify opportunities to enhance the passenger journey.

In its pursuit to obtain the highest level of accreditation, MCO’s Customer Experience team continues to enhance services based on authentic passenger feedback, including surveys and the Traveler Advisory Group (TAG) program, among other efforts.

“This accreditation promotion reflects our commitment to ensuring every aspect of the passenger journey is carefully designed to make every traveler feel welcome at Orlando International Airport,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages MCO. “We are committed to continued investment in our passengers, our people, our community, and our facilities so MCO remains among the best airports in the world.”

Orlando International Airport welcomed nearly 58 million guests in 2025.

The ACI Airport Customer Experience Accreditation program recognizes airports making measurable enhancements that improve passenger satisfaction and create more seamless, enjoyable, and memorable travel experiences for guests around the world.

The accreditation effort aligns closely with GOAA’s Elevating Vision, which focuses on four key pillars: Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People.

MCO continues to invest in innovative and welcoming experiences for travelers, including the recently opened Flybrary in Terminal C, the first of three new Family Zones scheduled to open at the airport this year.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla. – A playful library and reading nook, perfect for storytime and fun, welcomed its first young readers today at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Dubbed the Flybrary, it’s the first of three Family Zones that will open at MCO this year.

“As young readers travel though our airport, the Flybrary invites them to take flight with new adventures.” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “Orlando International Airport has made Community a foundational pillar, and we believe a good community partner honors stakeholders by providing new and exciting spaces to explore and learn.”

The Flybrary’s aesthetics align with MCO’s design concepts by bringing Central Florida’s outdoors to the indoors. From the bookshelves resembling trees, stools resembling tree stumps, and carpet resembling water and plant life, the Flybrary evokes the natural beauty of the region.

Floating above it all is a special vintage Lake Eola swan boat that pays tribute to Billy the Swan, Lake Eola, and downtown Orlando’s iconic swan population. The swan boat was specially restored for display in the Flybrary.

The real Billy the Swan is recognized as being one of the first swans to be imported to downtown Orlando, before gaining an infamous reputation for his aggressive behavior.

Nevertheless, Billy’s feisty attitude made him a hit with Orlando’s residents and his story reminds us that even the quirkiest characters can become legends.

The opening of the Flybrary, a concept first embraced by MCO’s Comfort Team, is helping to fulfill a GOAA vision: to elevate the passenger experience with amenities that delight guests.

“With the Flybrary, we are continuing to raise the customer experience here at MCO,” said Chief Customer Experience Officer Tawana Allen. “This project helps to improve the comfort level of our guests and allows them to experience Lake Eola’s popular swan boats in a different way.”

The Flybrary is located post-security in Terminal C, Level 2, near Gate 240 and is open to guests during regular Terminal C operations. Nontraveling guests can also access the Flybrary by applying for an Experience MCO Visitor Pass here: https://flymco.com/experience-mco-visitor-pass-program/

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla. - The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates Orlando International Airport (MCO), has been notified that Spirit Airlines has canceled all flights and has begun to wind down operations effectively immediately

Spirit has been a valued partner at MCO for 33 years. Our thoughts are with Spirit’s 160 Orlando-based employees and the many passengers who are impacted by this action.

Spirit is encouraging passengers to not show up at the airport. The Spirit website directs passengers to information about obtaining refunds, locating missing luggage, and other answers they may need.

Airport leadership has been in contact with Spirit management at MCO and will offer support, where possible, during this difficult transition. Spirit Airlines is in arrears at GOAA. An exact amount of what the airline owes is being calculated.

In March 2026, Spirit had approximately 496,000 passengers at MCO. During the next week, Spirit Airlines was scheduled to operate 237 flights out of MCO to 46 different domestic and international destinations.

Following conversations with the U.S. Department of Transportation, American Airlines, United, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Allegiant, Frontier, Avelo, and Breeze have all agreed to support impacted Spirit passengers in different ways. Passengers should refer to each individual airline website for additional specifics.

To assist travelers as they rebook flights, we have posted vital information on our FlyMCO website that shows alternative flights for various destinations. Our partner Visit Orlando has provided a link to Orlando-area accommodations offering special rates.

Additional questions may be directed to the airline by emailing SpiritComms@FTIConsulting.com.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla. – In a move that underscores its commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board approved a Fiscal Year 2026 budget amendment for $27 million to support an initiative under the recently organized Beautiful Airports Program. This is a transformative effort dedicated to enhancing safety, functionality, and aesthetics at Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports.

The funding includes both strategic use of existing Operations and Maintenance funds, along with the $27 million budget amendment, for a total of $40 million.

“Everything we do is centered on elevating the journey,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA, which manages MCO and ORL. “While we are making bold, transformative investments to accommodate more flights and more passengers, we know that a truly world-class experience is defined by the details.”

At the heart of the mission for the Beautiful Airports Program is a simple yet powerful idea: every detail matters. The program comprises the Beautiful Airports Team, bringing together subject matter experts from various Aviation Authority divisions to address everything from targeted repairs and fresh paint to deep cleaning and pressure washing. The work goes beyond routine facilities maintenance as the team elevates the look, feel, and safety of the airport environment in ways guests will immediately notice.

Momentum & Milestones

As part of Wednesday’s GOAA Board meeting, members reelected Stephanie Kopelousos to another term as Chair. GOAA is governed by a seven-member board, including the Mayor of the City of Orlando, Mayor of Orange County, and five members appointed by the Governor of the State of Florida. Kopelousos was first selected as Chair in August 2025 and has reinforced the Aviation Authority’s commitment to innovation and the next generation of airport development.

The Board also applauded CEO Lyttle on his first full year of service. Lyttle joined GOAA in April 2025 with more than two decades of airport leadership experience. In that time, he has focused intently on initiatives to significantly enhance every touchpoint of the passenger journey and strengthen airport operations. His leadership is guided by GOAA’s Board-approved vision, built on four pillars: Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People.

The Board also expressed deep appreciation for Chief Financial Officer Kathleen Sharman, who will retire in May following a distinguished career in public service.

In recognition of her contributions, GOAA Board Member and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer proclaimed May 1, 2026, as Kathleen Sharman Appreciation Day in the City of Orlando. The proclamation highlights her steady financial leadership and role in guiding GOAA through a period of unprecedented growth, with MCO now serving nearly 58 million passengers annually.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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ORLANDO, Fla. - Orlando International Airport (MCO) is in the midst of its Spring Break rush, a period that consistently brings some of the highest passenger volumes of the year. The airport, currently in the peak stretch of a 46-day travel window that ends April 7th, will see its busiest days between March 12th and March 16th.

“Central Florida enjoys a unique ranking as a favorite Spring Break destination because it is attractive to a wide range of audiences” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “We have popular theme parks, golfing, a growing food scene, sporting competitions, and other attractions, while also being blessed with beautiful weather that escapes other parts of the country at this time of year.”

During the Spring Break travel period, nearly 53,000 flights will operate into and out of MCO. The busiest day is projected to be March 15th with an estimated 212,000 travelers at MCO.

In total, more than 7.4 million passengers are expected, which is an 8 percent increase over 2025 – itself a record year.

Projected Peak Spring Break 2026 Passenger Counts

As always, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport three hours in advance of their flight and to be at the security checkpoint two hours before departure time. Travelers are also encouraged to practice the three P’s - Pack, Park, Plane:

Pack as lightly as possible.

Park in any available garage/lot or use Reserved Parking for a guaranteed spot.

Plane Don’t miss it! Give yourself plenty of time to get through security and to your plane.

Other tips:

• MCO Reserve. Passengers can book a time slot to go through a TSA security checkpoint. Visit the FlyMCO website for reservations.

• Cell Phone Lots. Instead of circling the airport, use the free North or South Cell Phone Lots to wait for your passenger. These convenient lots offer Wi-Fi and restrooms.

• Pack Right. Not sure what bag to take or what to pack? Our video offers some high-flying tips to help you decide.

• MCO App. Your personal MCO Assistant is close at hand for the best in-terminal navigation experience and more.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

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For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.

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