Photo courtesy of Signature Aviation

Orlando, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board approved a major redevelopment agreement that will deliver a new state-of-the-art terminal and expand hangar facilities at Orlando International Airport (MCO). This investment will significantly enhance corporate and general aviation capacity, reinforcing Central Florida’s position as a global destination for business, tourism, and innovation.

The Board approved a $26 million investment by Lake Nona-based Signature Aviation to modernize and expand hangar facilities on the west side of MCO. The project goes hand in hand with the Aviation Authority’s new vision, pledging to attain optimum level of service for all airport facilities, and strengthening the Airport Authority’s role as a driver of economic growth and innovation.

The approved development includes a new 8,000 square foot, state-of-the-art Fixed Base Operator (FBO) terminal, replacing the existing facility built in the 1980s, and redefining the arrival experience for corporate and private aviation guests. The project also includes the construction of two new 40,000 square foot aircraft hangars, adding much-needed hangar capacity to support growing corporate aviation demand.

When complete, Signature Aviation will lease more than 1.3 million square feet of aeronautical land from GOAA under a 30-year agreement, creating long-term value for the region while supporting business aviation, job creation, and private investment. The project is expected to be completed by Fall 2028.

“This investment meets a direct need for the corporate and general aviation communities,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer, GOAA. “It also boldly reflects Central Florida’s growth and ambition, opening doors for business, welcoming global travelers, and shaping an aviation system built to serve the region for generations to come.”

“Signature Aviation is proud to deepen our long-standing partnership with GOAA as we invest in the next generation of aviation infrastructure at MCO,” said Tony Lefebvre, Chief Executive Officer of Signature Aviation. “This redevelopment expands opportunity, supports Central Florida’s growth, and delivers a modern, elevated experience for the travelers and companies that power the region’s economy. Together, we’re building the capabilities and guest experiences that help Orlando continue to be a premier destination for business and innovation.”

Signature Aviation has served as a Fixed Base Operator (FBO) at Orlando International Airport since May 1996, making it one of GOAA’s longest-standing aviation partners.

This MCO expansion also aligns with GOAA’s broader strategy to strengthen aviation infrastructure across Central Florida and meet growing demand for corporate and general aviation facilities. At Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), multiple transformative projects are underway that will collectively add more than 250,000 square feet of new hangar space.

Development is progressing on Sky Harbour Group’s $40 million campus development, which will deliver nine new hangars totaling 203,000 square feet, while Sheltair Aviation is adding an additional 65,000 square feet of hangar space, bringing its total leasehold at ORL to nearly 430,000 square feet of hangar and office space.

MCO’s Concession Master Plan Update

World-class shopping and dining are once again available to non-travelers at Orlando International Airport (MCO), thanks to the return of the popular Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program, which offers even more to explore. Beginning today, guests can apply to visit the post-security areas of Terminal C as well as Terminals A & B, a first for the program.

Staci Wilkenson, Senior Manager, Marketing Services, third left, accepts the 2025 Best Website award on behalf of Orlando International Airport during ACI-NA’s annual Marketing-Communications-Customer Experience Conference in Kansas City. Other MCO employees also attended the event, including, second left, Tawana Allen, Chief Customer Experience Officer; Rick Mennie, Manager, Customer Experience; and Greg Angel, Senior Manager, Public Affairs & Community Relations. Kevin Burke, left, ACI-NA President & CEO, and Erin Burns with New Orleans International Airport presented the award.

Magic of Bronze, a community handbell ensemble, performed in MCO’s atrium in 2024 and is scheduled to return on December 20th.

Orlando, Fla.- The countdown to the holidays is underway at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Passengers at Florida’s busiest airport will experience the festive atmosphere throughout the terminal complex with colorful holiday decorations and 21 musical and entertainment acts performing throughout the month of December.

“Holiday travel can be busier than usual, but it is our hope that a daily showcase of local talented performers can uplift spirits and enhance the overall travel experience for our millions of travelers,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

Traditional Central Florida holiday entertainment ranging from Dickens Carolers to Latin Jazz is a direct reflection of the pillars that make up MCO’s core values of Community, Customer service, Infrastructure and People.

The following is a look at the entertainment lineup this December at MCO.

December 2025 ENTERTAINMENT@ MCO

Dec 1:

• Victoria Schultz, Harpist
• 12pm–3pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 2:

• Don Soledad, Latin Jazz Guitarist
• 12pm–3pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 3:

• Mariachi Oro International, Traditional Traveling Troupe
• 1pm–3pm / Roving Terminals A & B

Dec 4:

• Marc E, Smooth Jazz/Spanish Guitar
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 5:

• Richie Hughes, Steel Drums
• 4pm–7pm / Terminal C Level 2

Dec 5:

• GOAA Culture Team / Employee Caroling
• Throughout the day, around the airport

Dec 6:

• Rita Kay, Acoustic Guitarist & Vocalist
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 7:

• Johnny Magnuson, Saxophonist
• 4pm–7pm / Terminal C Level 2

Dec 8:

• Rob Hazen, Guitarist
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 9:

• Sandy Back Porch Band, Classic Country & Bluegrass
• 2pm–4pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 10:

• Victoria Schultz, Harpist
• 12pm–3pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 11:

• Mike Petrovich, Spanish Guitarist
• 4pm–7pm / Terminal C Level 2

Dec 12:

• Nova Era, Classical with a Twist
• 12pm–2pm / Gates 7–129 Checkpoint

Dec 13:

• Messiah Choral Society, Community Chorale
• 11am–12:30pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 14:

• Holiday Slides, Community Ensemble of Professional and Amateur Trombonists
• 4pm–5pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 14:

• Don Soledad, Latin Jazz Guitarist
• 4pm–7pm / Terminal C Level 2

Dec 15:

• Jay Marder Band, Klezmer & Hanukkah
• 2pm–4pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 16:

• Tony Wynn & Cameron Brown, Saxophone & Trumpet Jazz Duo
• 3pm–6pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 17:

• Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Strings Ensemble, Professional Quartet
• 12pm–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 18:

• Tony Wynn & Cameron Brown, Saxophone & Trumpet Jazz Duo
• 4pm–7pm / Terminal C Level 2

Dec 19:

• Winter Celebration
• Santa & Mrs. Claus / Photo Booth
• Caricatures/Face Painter/Paw Pilots
• 12pm–2pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 20:

• New World Music, Flute & Drum Duo
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 20:

• Magic of Bronze, Community Handbell Ensemble
• 1pm–3pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 21:

• Caricature Artists
• 11am–2pm / Gates 70–129 Checkpoint

Dec 22:

• Hotwired, Jazz Trio
• 11am–2pm / Terminal B Food Court

Dec 23:

• New World Music, Flute & Drum Duo
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 23:

• The Dicken Carolers, Costumed Quartet
• 12pm-3pm / Roving Terminals A & B

Dec 24:

• Marc E, Smooth Jazz/Spanish Guitarist
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 26:

• Mike Petrovich, Spanish Guitarist
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 27:

• Johnny Magnuson, Saxophonist
• 4pm–7pm / Terminal C Level 2

Dec 28:

• Rob Hazen, Guitarist
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 29:

• Hotwired, Jazz Trio
• 11am–2pm / Terminal B Food Court

Dec 30:

• Rita Kay Duo, Acoustic Guitarist & Vocalist
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

Dec 31:

• Richie Hughes, Steel Drums
• 11am–2pm / Gates 1–59 Checkpoint

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.

ORLANDO, Fla. – As the airlines resume normal flight operations this week, Orlando International Airport may see a slight increase in passenger traffic for the Thanksgiving travel season with nearly 1.9 million travelers.

“Orlando is usually one of the nation’s hottest travel destinations for the holiday season, and Orlando International Airport is ready,” says Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “We’ve enhanced our Customer Experience Ambassador program, have parking reservations available, and offer a variety of food and retail concessions for our guests to make their airport experience as enjoyable as possible.”

The 12-day travel period starts today (Friday, November 21) and ends Tuesday, December 2nd. The busiest day is expected to be Sunday, November 30th, with more than 177,400 passengers moving through MCO, followed by Saturday, November 29th, with 175,855 passengers.

For parking, passengers may use the North, South, and West lots. Surface lots Atlantis, Discovery, and Endeavour, across from the Train Station, will also be open.

As we enter the busy holiday travel season, MCO reminds travelers to observe a few simple travel rules:

Remember 3-2-1:

• Be at the ticket counter 3 hours before departure.

• Be at the TSA security checkpoint 2 hours before departure.

• Be at the gate 1 hour before boarding.

Other important travel tips:

• Download the Orlando MCO app for the latest parking information and TSA checkpoint times.

• Take advantage of MCO Reserve to secure a time to go through the checkpoints when available.

• Please use our Travel Plaza and the North and South free cell phone areas while waiting for friends and family members. Do not park on the shoulder of our airport roadways.

• Check with your airline for the latest flight status prior to arriving at the airport

• Double check your carry-on luggage to make sure there are no weapons in your bags

• Pack as lightly as possible.

• Pack your patience

• Make sure your personal identification is updated with Real ID for easier screening and processing at the TSA checkpoint

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.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board today approved Phase 2 concession packages as part of the Orlando International Airport (MCO) Concession Master Plan. Today’s approval advances a multi-year program to reimagine restaurant and retail offerings throughout Terminals A and B. The three-phase project is a part of the Aviation Authority’s vision to deliver an elevated, world-class experience for more than 57 million annual guests.

Phase 2 introduces an expanded mix of concession concepts, including more landmark Central Florida restaurants, as well as nationally recognized brands popular with MCO visitors.

“This three-phased project goes to the heart of our mission at Orlando International Airport to create an experience that is welcoming, seamless, and distinctly representative of Central Florida,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “Through this concession program, we are bringing unique flavors and innovative concepts directly to our guests, while continuing to offer the national brands they know and enjoy. It is all part of our broader vision to deliver a world-class airport experience from the moment travelers arrive.”

The Concession Master Plan takes a holistic approach, balancing national brands with local favorites, healthier dining choices, and experiences that reflect Central Florida’s character. Phase 2 restaurant and retail locations include:

• Bahia Bowls
• Bricks & Bowls
• Chick-fil-A
• Crisp & Green
• Einstein Bros. Bagels
• InMotion
• Just Love Coffee Cafe
• Naya Middle Eastern Counter & Grill
• Panda Express
• Piggza
• Sambazon
• Shake Shack
• Starbucks

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando International Airport (MCO) is gearing up for a major upgrade project that will transform how passengers move through the airport. Beginning December 3, 2025, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) will launch the Gate Link Replacement Project, a $253 million investment that promises a smoother, faster, and more reliable journey from the security checkpoints to the airside.

At the heart of the project is replacing MCO’s aging Gate Link system with state-of-the-art technology and new tram vehicles designed to meet the demands of tomorrow’s travelers. The overhaul, to be done in phases, will introduce four brand-new Gate Link vehicles connecting passengers between Terminals A and B to Gates 70-129 on Airside 2 and Airside 4.

To make way for this next-generation system, crews will also upgrade the entire supporting infrastructure, from running surfaces and operating systems to power distribution, vehicle controls, communication networks, and platform screen doors to ensure a world-class travel experience for years to come.

“Orlando International Airport is proud to be the gateway that welcomes millions of visitors to Central Florida and connects our residents to destinations around the world,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “While this project requires some temporary adjustments, the long-term benefits will enhance safety and ensure our Gate Link system serves passengers reliably for decades to come.”

The new Gate Link vehicles are Mitsubishi brand, similar in style to those placed into operation at MCO in 2017 during the Gate Link Replacement Project for Gates 1-59, serving Airsides 1 and 3.

Key Project Benefits

• Enhanced Reliability: New vehicles and upgraded traction systems ensure smoother, more consistent performance.
• Advanced Safety Features: Modern controls and operating systems improve safety for travelers.
• Sustainability: Energy-efficient technology reduces environmental impact.

What Passengers Can Expect

The Gate Link Replacement Project is a carefully coordinated, phased upgrade to the Gate Link system connecting the North Terminal Complex (Terminals A and B) and Gates 70-129, which includes Airside 2 and Airside 4. Work is scheduled to take place from December 2025 through Fall 2027.

• During normal operations, most passengers will experience only a few extra minutes in their journey, even during peak holiday periods because one tram will remain in operation during the project.
• From time to time, especially overnight, travelers may use shuttle buses as part of their journey through the airport.
• Travelers using rental car or ground transportation services are encouraged to allow an additional 30 minutes in their pickup planning.

To help ensure a seamless journey for passengers during the project, MCO will have additional guest service ambassadors, clear wayfinding signage, and continuous customer support. Throughout the project, we ask for passengers’ patience and understanding while we enhance the future travel experience.

Travel Smart

Airport officials remind passengers to follow the 3-2-1 rule:

• Be at the ticket counter 3 hours before departure.
• Be at the TSA security checkpoint 2 hours before departure.
• Be at the gate 1 hour before boarding.

Orlando International Airport Capital Improvement Program

The $253 million Gate Link Replacement Project is part of GOAA’s broader 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program, representing $5.9 billion in investments to modernize and expand MCO’s facilities. These upgrades will improve efficiency and operations, enhance passenger safety, and reinforce Orlando International Airport’s reputation as one of the world’s leading airports. This includes:

• Expanding parking capacity
• Expanding baggage handling capacity
• New and upgraded gate areas
• Modernizing Terminal A and Terminal B
• Renovating and adding new restrooms, seating areas, retail shops, and restaurants
• Installation of state-of-the-art technology and wayfinding to improve the journey through MCO

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.

Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, addresses the audience during Takeoff 2025.

ORLANDO, Fla. – In a nod to innovation and the future of aviation, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) today hosted Takeoff 2025 to highlight how Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports will grow and evolve during the next decade.

The event, held at Magic Carpet Aviation, attracted business and community leaders from across Central Florida and provided an opportunity to network amongst the backdrop of planes and runway activity at Orlando International Airport. GOAA Board Chair Stephanie Kopelousos welcomed the audience to the sun-filled space and introduced GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle, who joined the Aviation Authority in April.

Building on GOAA’s four foundational pillars of Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People, Mr. Lyttle told the audience that GOAA plans to create places where technology and hospitality work to serve people better.

“Building the airport of the future is more than an aspiration. It’s part of who we are. It’s the essence of our work and the spirit that guides every decision we make,” Mr. Lyttle said. “It means being smarter, more sustainable, and more connected. It means creating places where technology and hospitality work hand in hand to serve people better. It’s about moving from function to experience, from infrastructure to inspiration.”

Marc Randolph, Netflix Co-Founder & Former CEO, was the event’s guest speaker. He followed Mr. Lyttle’s remarks and encouraged the audience to push forward on their ideas, saying it’s hard to tell a good idea from a bad idea and that “nobody knows anything.”

“It is the key to understanding innovation. Because if nobody knows anything, you only have one thing to do, which is you’ve got to take that risk,” he said.

Following his remarks, Mr. Randolph sat down with Mr. Lyttle for a Q&A session. The two discussed how innovative companies and organizations don’t shrink from disruption but embrace it because disruption can be good for everyone.

The event also briefly covered some of the initiatives GOAA will focus on during the next five to 10 years, including:

• Building a reputation for hospitality and creating seamless journeys for travelers as staff aims for a 5-Star Skytrax airport rating.

• Strengthening partnerships and expanding opportunity by developing new cargo facilities, advancing plans for an FAA-approved on-airport Advanced Air Mobility vertiport by 2030, and increasing non-aeronautical revenue to reinvest in Central Florida.

• Modernizing Terminals A and B, complete with a new baggage handling system, continuing to expand Terminal C, and increasing parking by 8,000 spaces.

• Launching a fully operational Business Incubator at MCO to drive innovation and strategic growth, including increasing the number of small businesses working with MCO by 40%.

These initiatives are part of GOAA’s Visioning Plan, which the Board approved in October.

Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports are two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways with a combined economic impact of $41 billion dollars. MCO served more than 57 million passengers in 2024 and is ranked the No.1 airport in Florida, the 9th airport in the U.S., and the 25th busiest airport in the world.

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.

ORLANDO, Fla. – With the federal government shutdown ending, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) would like to thank all federal employees who continued their vital work at our airports throughout the shutdown and thank passengers for their patience during this time.