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.

ORLANDO, Fla. – An Emergency Order by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) identified Orlando International Airport (MCO) as one of 40 U.S. airports to have flight reductions. This FAA order, in response to the federal government shutdown, is effective as of Friday, November 7, 2025.

This is expected to result in fewer arrivals and departures at MCO, which should slow the rate of activity in the National Airspace System and assist airports that are experiencing staffing challenges. Ultimately, this order maintains the highest level of safety.

To this point, Orlando International Airport has been fortunate that federal airport employees have continued to work and there has been minimal impact on airport operations. We deeply appreciate our federal partners for their commitment.

The reduction in flights is likely to impact passengers, unfortunately, and we ask that they check directly with their airlines regarding delays and cancellations.

The airport is fully staffed to assist as much as possible during this time.

TOKYO - For the first time in its history, Orlando International Airport will offer nonstop passenger charter service to Tokyo, enriching cultural ties and creating more opportunities for robust economic activity between two of the world’s most visited regions.

The announcement was made at the Hotel New Otani on Tuesday to a wide-ranging audience of company executives from Disney, government representatives, and tourism officials, along with dozens of media members. The new service with ZIPAIR is not only the first-ever nonstop passenger flight between Tokyo and Orlando, but also the first nonstop passenger service between Florida and the Asia Pacific. Tokyo had been Orlando’s largest unserved Asian market.

“Our partnership with ZIPAIR is more than just a new route. It’s history,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International Airport. “This will be the first-ever nonstop passenger flight between Asia Pacific and the state of Florida. The partnership is a testament to the economic strength we share between our communities. We look forward to welcoming ZIPAIR passengers with the warmth and hospitality that both our nations cherish.”

“We are extremely proud of this historic achievement, as this will be the first non-stop charter flight from Japan to Orlando, Florida,” said Shingo Nishida, Representative Director/President, ZIPAIR Tokyo. “Orlando is home to numerous world-class theme parks and by operating these charter flights for travelers from Japan, we hope to meet our customers’ expectations when they experience ZIPAIR's new standard in air travel. We certainly look forward to welcoming Disney fans and guests on our charter flights next Spring.”

GOAA’s Chief Commercial Officer Vicki Jaramillo was in Tokyo to make the announcement. Also attending was Alex Kelly, Secretary of the Florida Department of Commerce, and Matt Swanson, Interim President of SelectFlorida, the state’s international trade and investment agency. ZIPAIR will operate four charter flights between MCO (Orlando) and NRT (Tokyo) between February 23 and March 10, 2026.

Travel and tourism leaders say the charter flights could lay the groundwork for additional service between Orlando and Tokyo.

The announcement quickly drew support across the Central Florida region, which has collaborated for several years to bring passenger flights to and from Japan.

Atsuko Germano, mickeynet, LLC: “This is a tremendous win for international tourism and for our guests. By providing more direct and convenient access, this charter passenger service will open the door for countless families and travelers to enjoy the unforgettable adventures these destinations offer on both sides of the Pacific.”

Faron Kelley, SVP, Disney Destinations Sales Strategy & Solutions, Disney Experiences: “Direct connectivity between Orlando and Tokyo brings Disney magic closer than ever. Whether it’s exploring the wonder of Walt Disney World Resort or enjoying the enchantment of Tokyo Disney Resort, this new nonstop flight opens the door to unforgettable vacations and cherished memories for families and friends on both sides of the globe.”

Casandra Matej, President &CEO, Visit Orlando: “This new direct air service from Tokyo is a landmark moment for Orlando, opening an entirely new gateway and making us the first destination in Florida with connectivity with Asia. It reflects years of collaboration with Orlando International Airport, Disney and several Central Florida tourism partners, and supports Visit Orlando’s long-term vision to grow international visitation. This new route unlocks exciting opportunities to showcase Orlando’s world-famous theme parks, thrilling sports, vibrant culinary scene, and rich cultural experiences to travelers across Asia.”

D.T. Minich, President & CEO, Experience Kissimmee: “Connecting two continents through this new air service is more than a new destination - it’s also a bridge between cultures, economies, and opportunities. Every new flight brings our regions closer together, encouraging the exchange of ideas, the growth of tourism, and the strengthening of business partnerships.”

Overview

• Route: Narita International Airport = Orlando International Airport
• Number of Flights: 4 Roundtrip Flights (Total 8 Flights per Direction)
• Planned Dates of Operation: February 23, February 28, March 5, and March 10, 2026
  • Flights Depart Narita during the afternoon ⇒ Arriving at Orlando in the afternoon
  • Flights Depart Orlando during the afternoon ⇒ Arriving Narita in the evening

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is setting course on an ambitious and strategic vision to redefine world-class experiences at Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has unveiled a new strategic vision designed to guide the future of Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) over the next decade.

Centered on enhancing the customer experience and strengthening the Aviation Authority’s role as a driver of economic growth and innovation, the vision is built around four foundational pillars: Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People.

Since joining GOAA earlier this year, Chief Executive Officer Lance Lyttle has been focused on developing a long-term strategy for a new era of growth and enhancing the guest experience at two of Central Florida’s most important aviation gateways. As the busiest airport in Florida, and one of the busiest in the United States, MCO continues to experience strong travel demand. ORL serves as the region’s premier general aviation facility and primary reliever airport for MCO.

“This vision focuses and unites everything we do around one core purpose: delivering an exceptional experience for everyone who passes through our airports,” said Mr. Lyttle. “We’re creating spaces that are more welcoming, efficient, and enjoyable, from the parking areas to the gate, so that every step of the journey feels seamless.”

Airport leaders presented the vision to GOAA board members during a workshop on October 8. After reviewing the plan, developed out of months of extensive research, collaboration, and input, the GOAA board approved the vision during today’s board meeting.

“The Board is proud to support a forward-looking vision that balances growth, innovation, and service to our community,” said Stephanie Kopelousos, Chair of the GOAA Board. “This plan ensures that as Central Florida continues to evolve, Orlando International Airport and Orlando Executive Airport remain worldclass gateways that reflect the spirit, ambition, and hospitality for which our region is known.”

GOAA is determined to meet the goals of the new vision, with support from the recently revised $5.9 billion MCO Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and $84.2 million ORL Capital Improvement Program. These significant investments reflect GOAA’s ongoing commitment to expand capacity, modernize facilities, and elevate the passenger journey at every touchpoint.

The Aviation Authority will focus on strategically achieving various five-year and ten-year goals.

Some of these multi-year goals include:

Customer Experience

• Support all activities and projects necessary to attain a 5-star Skytrax rating, a global rating system that ranks airports on quality of service and other standards.
• By 2035, activate 60% of current vacant real estate assets at ORL while maximizing revenue.

Community

• Develop at least one new cargo processing facility and complete an FAA-approved on-airport AAM vertiport by 2030, designed to accommodate multiple commercial operators and support the future of air mobility.
• By 2030, increase non-aeronautical revenue by 30% compared to the revenue figures recorded for 2025.

Infrastructure

By 2030, several improvements are planned to:

• Increase available public parking by 8,000 spaces.
• Complete the construction of a new Baggage Handling System for Terminals A & B.
• Complete Airside 2 gate expansions.
• Incorporate additional passenger conveyance in Terminal C from Palm Court to Gate C230.
• By 2035, complete Terminal C, Phase 2, construction.

People

• By 2030, launch 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%.
• By 2028, achieve a 20% increase over 2025 baseline employee engagement scores to attain an employee engagement score of 90% within 5 years.

Other vision initiatives range from restoring stormwater structures to a nomenclature project that will focus on renaming all terminals by numbering them Terminals 1, 2, and 3 to improve clarity and consistency.

GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle, center right, and VP of Construction Scott Shedek, center left, lead airport staff in celebrating the opening of the Pedestrian Bridge, an enhancement project at Terminal C.

ORLANDO, Fla. – A spacious and contemporary Pedestrian Bridge is now open to passenger traffic at Orlando International Airport (MCO), offering a new and convenient pathway between Terminal C, the Train Station, and the Terminal Link.

The long-awaited Pedestrian Bridge, with a set of bidirectional moving walkways, was in the original design for Terminal C but was removed as a cost-saving measure when the COVID-19 pandemic impacted construction projects at MCO and other airports.

The walkways, including ramps, are approximately 90 feet in length but will be extended once the entire project, including the Rental Car Lobby, opens in 2026. As part of this program, a third set of moving walkways will be installed in the existing GTF Bridge.

“The Pedestrian Bridge represents both progress and a promise,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “By opening this new access, we are delivering greater convenience to our passengers and meeting their expectations of a world-class airport.”

The future extended walkways for the Pedestrian Bridge are only one part of the significant enhancements coming to Terminal C. The Phase 1 gate expansion is underway to increase capacity and streamline the travel process across the entire airport complex. Four new boarding piers will accommodate eight narrow-body equivalent aircraft positions for efficiency and flexibility. Additionally, airport staff is conducting several studies to determine the best locations for additional moving walkways.

Terminal C primarily serves international airlines. For 2024, MCO saw an increase in international travel with nearly 800,000 more passengers moving through its terminals compared to 2023.