GOAA Board Chair Stephanie Kopelousos and GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle share a moment before MCO Means Business 2025 kicks off.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) hosted its popular and business-friendly event “MCO Means Business” today, setting a record for the number of registrations as more small business owners look for opportunities at one of the nation’s Top 10 airports.

Small business owners and others attend a workshop on the Concessions program at Orlando International Airport.

The event also served as an opportunity for new GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle to introduce himself to the Central Florida business community. Lyttle sat down for a half-hour interview where he discussed his education, career, future projects at MCO, and his beliefs about the importance of an airport’s role in a community.

“Airports have a higher moral purpose. It’s not just about moving people, bags and cargo, it’s also about creating economic wealth and prosperity for the region,” he said.

Lyttle received a warm welcome from the sports community as well. UCF Hall of Famer Shaquem Griffin, Orlando Magic executive Esu Ma’at, and Orlando City Founder Kay Rawlins each presented him with a custom jersey from their respective sports organizations.

The annual event, which was held at the Hilton Orlando and sponsored by GOAA’s Office of Business Opportunity & Exchange, had approximately 2,300 registrations. Previous years peaked at 1,500. Designed to assist small business owners, both developing and experienced, the free daylong event featured speakers, such as Mitch Mitchem, founder and CEO of HIVE; breakout sessions; and company “speed dating.”

GOAA Chair Stephanie Kopelousos delivered remarks that touched on the impact small businesses have on the community at large.

“Every time a partnership is formed, jobs are created. Every time we invest in opportunity, we are building a more resilient and more prosperous Central Florida. Because when small businesses succeed, our entire community and region succeed,” said Kopelousos.

GOAA’s BOeX connects local, small businesses to resources and contract opportunities at GOAA by providing solutions to current and future airport businesses, contractors, and consultants.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board approved Fiscal Year 2026 budgets for Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL),setting the stage for a new era of growth and guest-focused enhancements at two of Central Florida’s most important aviation gateways.

$5.9 billion MCO Capital Improvement Plan will expand capacity, modernize facilities, and elevate the passenger experience

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.

The GOAA Board on Wednesday approved a FY 2026 Budget for Orlando International Airport totaling $979,494,000, reflecting a $38.2 million increase in budgeted revenues and an 8.4% increase in budgeted Operating and Maintenance (O&M) expenses compared to the previous year.

It is important to note the budget does not include any local tax dollars.

The Board also approved a FY 2026 budget for Orlando Executive Airport totaling $7,885,183, continuing the airport’s role in supporting business and general aviation, and relieving congestion from MCO.

GOAA Board Approves Revised Capital Improvement Plans

In addition to operating budgets, the Board also approved significant updates to both airports’Capital Improvement Programs (CIP). Capital Improvement Plans are multi-year plans outlining major capital projects linked to the Aviation Authority’s strategic goals.

MCO’s Fiscal Year 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program now totals $5.9 billion, a net increase of $484.9 million.

The revised CIP illustrates GOAA’s commitment to invest significantly in projects that will expand capacity, modernize airport facilities, and elevate the experience for everyone who comes through MCO. 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 to improve the journey through MCO

“Impressions matter and we want every guest’s first and last impression when they arrive and depart to be ‘Wow’,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). “Our strategy begins and ends with our guests and employees. We’re making it easier to move through our airports while creating spaces that are more welcoming, more efficient, and more enjoyable, from the parking lot to the gate, so every step of the journey feels seamless.”

Orlando Executive Airport’s revised Capital Improvement Program totals $84.2 million, supporting activity to provide the region with vital general aviation access.

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.

EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, New Jersey – Aviation specialists with Orlando International Airport (MCO) recently completed an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) assessment with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) using Human-In-The-Loop modeling and simulation, further paving the way to the future of air travel. Human-in-the-loop (HITL) modeling uses human insight along with automation to improve the accuracy and reliability of systems.

The three-day simulation examined the potential impacts of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft operating in and around MCO. Using notional routes and procedures, Orlando-based Air Traffic Control Specialists evaluated integration scenarios to shape future operations, leveraging a state-of-the-art simulated tower environment lab.

The simulation occurred at the National Airspace System Innovation and Emerging Concepts Lab located at the FAA’s William J. Hughes Technical Center in Egg Harbor Township, NJ.

This is a major milestone in the FAA’s work to integrate AAM aircraft into the National Airspace System (NAS), with MCO being the second airport in the country to participate.

“This assessment reflects our drive to help lead the next evolution of flight,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages Orlando International Airport. “We deeply value the collaborative partnership with the FAA, NASA, the National Air Traffic Controllers Association, and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) as we lay the groundwork to safely bring new airspace entrants into the National Airspace System and position Florida at the forefront of aviation’s future.”

In November, GOAA led a two-day tabletop exercise focused on advancing the integration of AAM operations at MCO. The event, supported by several FAA organizations, explored strategies to safely and effectively introduce this new mode of air travel into the national airspace.

As part of its long-term vision, the Aviation Authority has identified two potential sites for AAM facilities; the east airfield and an area near the train station.

GOAA has invested in preparing for AAM’s future growth, including conceptual plans for vertiports. With more than 11,000 acres, Orlando International offers the size and flexibility to be a proving ground for next-generation aviation technologies.

Through ongoing collaboration with federal, state, industry, and community partners, including the FAA, U.S. Department of Transportation, and FDOT, airport leaders are hoping to position MCO and Florida airports at the forefront of AAM adoption, creating opportunities that will benefit the state.

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 unofficial end of the summer travel season is wrapping up at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and traffic is expected to increase slightly compared to last year’s record levels.

The Labor Day forecast calls for an increase of approximately 3 percent during the six-day period. In total, nearly 891,000 travelers are expected to use MCO during the holiday period with Friday, August 29, expected to be the busiest day with 161,000-plus passengers.

This year, to help move those last-minute, die-hard, back-to-school travelers a little easier, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is urging families with children to use its new Families on the Fly security lanes. The new national program, which targeted MCO as one of the first airports to use the program, provides families with children 12 or younger the opportunity to be screened by TSA officers who are prepared to assist with bulky items like strollers and diaper bags.

MCO also encourages travelers to use:

• MCO Reserve Parking for a guaranteed parking space at the airport
• MCO Reserve for an appointment to go through security screening
• Orlando MCO app for information about parking and security wait times

GOAA Board Members (L-R): Jason James, Mayor Buddy Dyer, Vice Chair Joe Nunziata, Chair Stephanie Kopelousos, Treasurer Dan Giordano, Mayor Jerry Demings, Carson Good

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board unanimously selected Stephanie Kopelousos to serve as Chair, doubling-down on a commitment to innovation, enhanced passenger experiences, and the next wave of airport development.

During Wednesday’s meeting, the Board also elected Joe Nunziata as Vice Chair and Dan Giordano as Treasurer.

Ms. Kopelousos succeeds former Chairman Tim Weisheyer who served on the GOAA Board since May 2021, and as Chairman since April 2024.

“It is an incredible honor to lead the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board,” Ms. Kopelousos said. “Building on the outstanding work of former Chairman Tim Weisheyer and the entire Board, we remain focused on innovation and enhancing the passenger experience at every step. Between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), we are in the midst of legacy-defining projects that will not only delight our guests but also strengthen our connection to the Central Florida community we proudly serve.”

Ms. Kopelousos is currently the District Administrator of the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District. Previously, she served as the Director of Legislative & Intergovernment Affairs for Governor Ron DeSantis; the County Manager for Clay County Board of County Commissioners for eight years; and was the first woman to serve as Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation when she was appointed by Governor Charlie Crist in 2007.

In July, Weisheyer ended his service on the GOAA Board following a gubernatorial appointment to the Florida State University Board of Trustees. Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Jason James to the GOAA Board for a new four-year term. James is President and CEO of Mechanical One.

The GOAA Board is comprised of seven members, including five gubernatorial appointees, the mayor of Orange County, and the mayor of the City of Orlando.

BOARD APPROVES ORL RUNWAY IMPROVEMENT PROJECT

During Wednesday’s meeting, the Board also approved a $15.5 million Runway Improvement project at Orlando Executive Airport (ORL).

The rehabilitation project includes milling and overlaying the existing pavement, upgrading airfield signage and markings, and replacing incandescent lighting with energy-efficient LED systems. The project will improve runway visibility, increase safety, and enhance the overall experience for pilots and users.

“This investment in Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) is critical to maintaining its role as a premiere reliever airport for Orlando International Airport (MCO) and a key hub for general aviation in Central Florida,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates Orlando Executive Airport. “By making these improvements now, we are extending the life of Runway 7-25 by two decades. That matters because this runway supports 95% of ORL’s operations, ensuring we can safely and efficiently serve our aviation community for years to come.”

Construction is scheduled to begin in Fall 2025 and is expected to be completed by Spring 2026.

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) today celebrated the leadership and accomplishments of outgoing Board Chair Tim Weisheyer, whose term ends this week, during the GOAA monthly Board meeting.

Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Mr. Weisheyer to the Florida State University Board of Trustees, effective August 30, 2025. Central Florida business leader Jason James has been appointed to succeed Mr. Weisheyer as the newest member of the GOAA Board.

Mr. Weisheyer joined the GOAA Board in May 2021. In April 2024, the Board selected him to serve as Chair. During that time, he used his talents in leadership, strategic planning, and site development to guide a $5.4-plus billion Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) at the busiest airport in the state of Florida and to support initiatives at Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). Orlando International Airport (MCO) welcomed more than 57 million passengers in 2024, and ORL provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the Central Florida region.

Both airports experienced significant growth and investment during Mr. Weisheyer’s tenure and under his leadership as Chair, including:

• The groundbreaking and landmark agreement with United Airlines on the $315M Technical Operations complex at MCO.

• The launch of GOAA’s bold new branding, including redesigned logos, a fully rebuilt website, and an intuitive mobile app aimed at improving digital access and customer service.

• A nationwide executive search that culminated in the hiring of Lance Lyttle as GOAA’s new Chief Executive Officer.

• Expansion efforts at ORL, including a $15M investment for a pair of brand-new hangars for Atlantic Aviation.

While a Board Member, Mr. Weisheyer was also instrumental in the opening of Terminal C, a state-of-the-art facility that elevates the travel experience for millions of passengers.

“As I reflect on my time as a GOAA Board Member and as Chairman, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible journey I’ve had,” said Mr. Weisheyer. “From celebrating the opening of Terminal C to honoring brave veterans during Liberty Weekend events, every moment has reinforced my belief that there is power in unity and teamwork.”

“While we will indeed miss the committed and excellent leadership of Mr. Weisheyer, we are confident that he will continue to share his wealth of talents as a member of the Florida State University Board of Trustees,” Lance Lyttle, GOAA CEO, said. “He has helped to guide many initiatives that have laid a foundation for our airports to have greater success in the future.”

Gov. DeSantis announced Mr. James, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mechanical One, will serve a four-year term.

“Being named to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board is both a personal honor and professional calling,” Mr. James said. “Our airports represent Central Florida’s front door to the world and are vital economic engines to our region. I have deep respect for the leadership that’s come before me, and I look forward to building on their legacy, bringing the same spirit of innovation, service, and excellence that I’ve championed in my own business journey.”

Mr. James earned his associate degree from Valencia College and his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida. His appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

Vice Chair Stephanie Kopelousos will lead Board functions until members select a new Chair.

Also, during Wednesday’s meeting, the Board approved the nominations of Mr. Jeffrey Brown to serve as Chief Development Officer and Dr. Randolph Hudgins to serve as Chief Administrative Officer. Mr. Brown comes to GOAA with more than 30 years of experience in capital projects at large and medium-hub commercial airports in the United States as well as military aviation facilities overseas. Dr. Hudgins was promoted from Vice President of Human Resources at GOAA where he has served since March 2017. Dr. Hudgins has more than 25 years of experience in private and public sector organizational administration.

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. — Soaring aircraft above, soaring music below, and a crowd of patriotic passengers in-between. That’s just one way to describe the scene at this year’s “Liberty Weekend,” a free, patriotic concert at the Orlando International Airport (MCO), featuring the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. The concert, which is traditionally held the Saturday before our Nation’s birthday, was themed this year as “A Celebration of Flight.”

Among the evening’s highlights was the presentation of the Colonel Joe Kittinger Award to Tuskegee Airman Flight Officer Daniel Keel. Chosen by a panel of distinguished local veterans, Mr. Keel was honored for his extraordinary service to aviation, the nation, and the Central Florida community. Mr. Keel is the 10th overall recipient of the award, which was named in honor of Col. Kittinger (1928-2022), of Orlando, a pioneer of military and civil aviation.

Of the five Tuskegee Airmen Pilots who are still alive, Flight Officer Keel, 102, of Central Florida, is the only one who was triple rated. Mr. Keel was a Navigator, Bombardier, and Fighter Pilot. Drafted into service during World War II, Mr. Keel served his nation with courage and bravery, during a time of conflict and racial discrimination.

In 2007, Mr. Keel received The Congressional Gold Metal, the highest civilian honor that Congress can confer.

“It was indeed an honor to present Flight Officer Daniel Keel with the highest community honor that the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board can bestow, the 2025 Colonel Joe Kittinger Award,” said GOAA Board Chairman Tim Weisheyer. “Liberty Weekend and the Kittinger Award have a rich heritage, deeply rooted in the airport’s military ties to this community.”

“This event is just one part of our ongoing commitment to the Central Florida community and is a ‘thank you’ to the traveling public.” said GOAA CEO Lance Lytle. “We are glad to have hosted the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and to present the Colonel Joe Kittinger Award to Flight Officer Daniel Keel, a deserving local military veteran.”

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra, led by conductor Maestro Chris Confessore, stirred the Terminal with patriotic tunes and other selections, including a medley of summer movie soundtrack classics. Prior to the Orchestra’s performance, members of the Central Florida Community Arts Choir entertained travelers with selections ranging from Motown hits to Broadway favorites.

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 more than 57 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 nation’s 249th birthday is going to be busy in the skies, terminals, and parking garages at Orlando International Airport (MCO). A direct comparison of travel numbers from 2024 shows that July 4th, 2025, travel will likely lead to another record year.

Overall, traffic is expected to increase nearly 2 percent with some 1.43 million passengers during the 9-day travel period, which starts on Sunday, June 29th, ending on Monday, July 7th. The busiest travel day is projected to be Sunday, July 6th, when an estimated 175 thousand passengers will pass through MCO.

To help beat the heat of summer travel at Florida’s busiest airport, MCO staff encourages passengers to remember the phrase “Pack, Park, Plane:” Pack as lightly as possible. Park using our reservation system for a guaranteed spot. Plane, give yourself plenty of time to get through security and to your plane.

ORLANDO, Fla. – A new level of customer experience is now in orbit at Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Members of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board and Orlando International Airport (MCO) leadership today proudly opened Annie’s Space Sensory Room, a safe and soothing sanctuary designed specifically for travelers with sensory sensitivities and their families.

Annie’s Space Sensory Room is a thoughtfully crafted environment where both neurodiverse and neurotypical passengers can escape the sensory overload often experienced in a bustling airport setting. From glowing moon rocks and a Milky Way-themed carpet to interactive bubble tubes and tactile panels, the space-themed room is full of engaging features meant to calm, center, and inspire.

Annie the Astronaut, MCO’s mascot and the room’s cheerful intergalactic guide, invites guests on a sensory-friendly journey through space – complete with a moon cave, rocket sculpture, and peaceful planets.

“At MCO, we believe every passenger deserves a smooth and welcoming journey,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International Airport. “Annie’s Space is more than just a room; it is a reflection of our commitment to innovation and care for our passengers and their families.”

“Annie’s Space brings innovation and heart together in a truly meaningful way,” said Tim Weisheyer, GOAA Board Chairman. “By combining evidence-based design with immersive, space-themed elements, we’ve created a calming experience that reflects our dedication to the people-first mission. This project sets a new standard for how we can elevate accessibility through creativity and care.”

Annie’s Space Sensory Room is a proprietary Snoezelen® Multi-Sensory Environment from School Specialty and is a space custom designed to maximize the benefits of multisensory experiences, including reduced anxiety, increased awareness and attention, and improved mood and behavior. Whether through soothing sounds, soft textures, movement-based activities, or interactive sensory equipment, Annie’s Space Sensory Room provides therapeutic relief for all individuals, including those with sensory processing differences.

“What makes a Snoezelen room unique is its foundation in independence and exploration—users become the architects of their own experience and the space transforms to meet their individual needs,” said Crystal Paulitzki, Snoezelen and Sensory Spaces Expert from School Specialty. "We are proud to partner with Orlando International Airport to create a travel experience where everyone feels comfortable and supported.”

The opening of Annie’s Space Sensory Room marks a significant milestone in MCO’s ongoing mission to create a more welcoming travel experience. In April 2024, MCO became a Certified Autism Center, a prestigious designation awarded by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). To earn this certification, more than 80% of airport staff completed autism and neurodiversity sensitivity training, equipping them with the tools to better support travelers with hidden disabilities and sensory needs.

Related programs include:

• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program – Allows travelers with hidden disabilities a discreet way to let airport employees know they may need extra assistance and/or time with the process. Customers may collect a sunflower lanyard from select booths throughout the airport.

• MCO Paw Pilots Therapy Dog Program – Therapy dogs visit with airport guests to help calm some of the anxiety that some experience while traveling.

Ready to launch into calm? Annie’s Space Sensory Room is located in Terminal A, Level 3, down from the Food Court area. The room is open every day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

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.