ORLANDO, Fla. – What will the future of airports and travel look like? That was one of the questions hundreds of travel industry experts from across the globe gathered to discuss at Orlando International Airport (MCO) last week. Future Travel Experience (FTE), An innovation-focused travel industry organization, held its first FTE Communities Live Days event of 2025 to explore what’s next in aviation and airports.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando International Airport soared to new heights in 2024 as international travel took off with nearly 800,000 more passengers moving through its terminals compared to 2023.

Three airlines led the increase in international traffic: Southwest, JetBlue, and Porter.

“It was a remarkable year for international travel at MCO,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International Airport. “This growth not only underscores the resilience and appeal of Central Florida as a global hub, but it also highlights the importance of international travel as a window to the world. This is great news for our region, community, and our mission to connect Florida and the world.”

Southwest opened an international hub at MCO to increase its Caribbean service from two routes to eight. JetBlue added service to Punta Cana and Santiago in the Dominican Republic while Porter Airlines serviced Ottawa and Toronto. The three airlines accounted for 84% of the increase in international passengers at MCO.

Though there were many challenges in the aviation industry in 2024, including airline bankruptcies, aircraft delivery delays and a FAA Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for overhaul of specific engines, MCO only experienced a decrease of 0.9 percent compared to 2023.

Orlando International remains Florida’s busiest airport with 57,211,628 passengers in 2024.

Looking ahead, MCO will pick up two new international routes in 2025 with Discover Airlines (Munich, Germany) starting March 5 and Air France (Paris, France) starting May 21. Additionally, some MCO airlines are projecting an increase in seat capacity for spring and early summer. An uptick in passenger volume is expected when tourists descend on Orlando for the opening of Epic Universe in May.

Throughout 2025, MCO has several new destinations:

• Air France (Paris, France) starting May 21
• Alaska Airlines (Boise, ID) through March 25
• Breeze (Gulfport, MS) starting February 6
• Breeze (Ogdensburg, NY) starting February 13
• Breeze (Raleigh/Durham, NC) starting May 9
• Breeze (Wilmington, NC) starting February 13
• Discover Airlines (Munich, Germany) starting March 5
• Southwest (Ft. Myers) starting August 5
• Southwest (Sarasota) starting August 5
• Southwest (West Palm Beach) starting August 5

Tuskegee airmen at the Ramitelli air base. (Photographer Toni Frissell)

ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando International Airport is honoring the contributions and sacrifices of the nation’s first African-American military pilots in a new community exhibit.

This exhibition celebrates Black History Month and the state of Florida’s inaugural Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day. In 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed into law an annual holiday commemorating the sacrifices of the Tuskegee Airmen to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of March.

Florida played a pivotal role in the effort to train nearly 1,000 pilots and nearly 14,000 navigators, bombardiers, instructors, mechanics, control tower operators, and other support staff as part of the “Tuskegee Experience.” With training fields throughout Florida, the group of primarily African-American airmen flew 1,578 missions during two years of World War II. Despite their distinguished achievements and valor, the Tuskegee Airmen faced discrimination and were subjected to segregation.

“Honoring the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen through this exhibition is a meaningful way to celebrate and recognize the contributions of these pioneering pilots,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA). “By showcasing their remarkable story, we hope to not only educate and inspire travelers, but also enrich their journey with a deeper appreciation of how the Tuskegee Airmen made history.”

At least four Tuskegee Airmen called Central Florida home, including:

• Chief Master Sergeant Richard C. Hall, Jr. (1923 – 2021) Winter Park
• Lt. Daniel K. Keel, Jr. (1922 – Present) Clermont
• Lt. Col. Robert C. Hughes (1924 – 2022) Brevard County
• Lt. Raymond Cassagnol (1920 – 2023) Seminole County

Hall was an aircraft mechanic in the 99th Fighter Pursuit Squadron, served 30 years in the military, and was one of the first African-American Chief Master Sergeants. Hall was the founder and president of the Central Florida chapter of Tuskegee Airmen Inc., in Winter Park, where he worked tirelessly to promote awareness for the contributions of African-American pilots within the broader narrative of American military history.

The exhibition includes a gallery of images by photographer Toni Frissell, which may be the only photos taken of the airmen in Europe by a professional photographer.

“Florida Celebrates the Tuskegee Airmen, the First African-American Military Pilots” is on display through April 21, 2025, in the Community Exhibition Gallery area on Level 3 of Terminal A. The State of Florida’s Tuskegee Airmen Commemoration Day is Thursday, March 27, 2025.

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 welcomed its newest member during Wednesday’s Board meeting: Dan Giordano, Vice President of Corporate Planning and Development for Rosen Hotels & Resorts.

Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Mr. Giordano to the GOAA Board to complete the term of Dr. John L. Evans, Jr., who was recently appointed by Gov. DeSantis to the University of Central Florida Board of Trustees.

“I want to thank Dr. Evans for his commitment to the board and his enthusiastic service to the Aviation Authority community. He understands the importance of creating a culture where every employee is valued, and we greatly benefited from his tenure,” said GOAA Board Chairman Tim Weisheyer. “While we send best wishes to Dr. Evans, we also look forward to working with Dan Giordano, a Central Florida hospitality veteran. He joins us at an exciting time and will help us to continue innovating our approach to providing excellent services at our world-class airport.”

With more than 40 years’ experience in the hospitality industry, Mr. Giordano has served the Central Florida and tourism communities extensively, including roles with the Visit Orlando Board of Directors, Universal Boulevard Property Owners Association, International Drive Community Redevelopment Agency, American Hotel and Lodging Association Resort Committee, and the Orange County Sports Incentive Commission.

“Creating memorable experiences is at the heart of what we do in Central Florida,” Mr. Giordano said. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board, and to support the bold initiatives underway to seamlessly connect Central Florida and the world through exceptional experiences, collaboration, and creativity.”

Mr. Giordano’s term expires in April 2026. The seven-member board oversees policies at Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports.

In other action, Board members approved the purchase of 10 passenger boarding bridges for Terminals A and B. The new bridges, the elevated walkway that connects the airplane to the terminal gate, will enhance ground operations and replace existing units that are nearing the end of useful life. The passenger bridges are a separate effort from the upcoming renovations planned for Terminals A and B but will complement the upgraded experience for passengers.

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) is looking forward to 2025 after collecting several awards within the aviation industry and increasing connectivity across the globe during 2024.

Among the many airlines and routes that began new service in 2024 at Orlando International Airport (MCO) were Flair, with service to Canada; Iberojet with seasonal service to Madrid Spain; and Viva, with service to Merida and Monterrey, Mexico.

Orlando International also announced the launch of direct new service to Munich, Germany, beginning in March 2025, and to Paris, France, beginning in May 2025.

Amidst the new airline activity, which increased the number of world destinations at MCO to more than 170, GOAA unveiled a new look with an appealing brand-new logo, completely rebuilt website and bold innovative app, all significant steps in enhancing digital services and modernizing the airport’s look and feel. It was the first time in 42 years that the airport updated its branding.

The redesign project touched on the Aviation Authority’s commitment to People, Community, Connection and Innovation.

Here are other highlights that GOAA staff celebrated in 2024.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Santa’s sleigh got a little heavier this year, thanks to generous employees at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA).

GOAA employees collected approximately 150 new toys for children who otherwise may not have had a present to open this year. The donated toys benefit Children’s Home Society of Florida, the largest private non-profit child-centered organization in Florida, best known for their work in child welfare services, such as foster care and adoption.

“Our employees understand that it is important to enrich our community through charitable acts, and there’s nothing more enriching than making a child’s day with a new toy on Christmas,” said GOAA CEO Kevin J. Thibault. “We are honored to partner with Children’s Home Society of Florida, which makes a difference in the lives of children and their families across our region every day.”

GOAA’s Human Resources Department organized the drive, which collected toys and other gifts for toddlers through teenagers. Employees placed the toys into collection boxes that were strategically located at eight different sites throughout Orlando International Airport and Orlando Executive Airport complexes. The toys were then gathered by the Children’s Home Society of Florida.

The donated items included toy trucks, coloring books and Lego sets for toddlers and young children to sporting equipment, board games and metal tumblers for older children and teenagers.

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 year-end holiday travel season is here, with Orlando International Airport (MCO) poised to welcome millions to Central Florida for bowl games and celebrations.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board approved a series of major projects at Orlando International Airport (MCO) that will transform passenger areas of Terminals A and B and the airport’s parking garages.

The GOAA Board unanimously approved a $13 million project to install parking guidance system technology throughout MCO’s parking garages. The Board also approved plans for a lineup of new restaurant and retail options. These projects are part of a broader multi-million-dollar, multi-year investment to enhance the overall experience for the nearly 60 million passengers who visit MCO annually, and for future passenger growth.

“These are significant investments we are making at Orlando International Airport, and they really go to the heart of what we are about: creating timeless experiences for our guests who visit from around the world and here in Central Florida,” said Kevin J. Thibault, GOAA CEO. “We are using emerging technologies to create seamless arrival to MCO with the new parking guidance system. Once visitors are here, they will be able to find unique and enjoyable restaurants and stores that are designed with passengers in mind.”

Parking Guidance System

Example of the parking guidance system that will be installed at Orlando International Airport. (courtesy Parking Guidance Systems, LLC)

The GOAA Board awarded Transportation Systems Inc. of Apopka a contract to install an Automated Parking Guidance System for all three of MCO’s parking garages (Garages A, B and C) and Terminal Top.

The parking guidance selected is similar to those found at Central Florida attractions, hospitals, and many large-hub airports. The camera-based system will provide real-time information about parking availability, with color-coded lights pointing drivers to open parking spots. There will also be digital signage on roadways, garage entry points, and throughout the garages showing real-time information about the number of open parking spots available lane by lane.

After a design period, installation is expected to begin by mid-2025 and take approximately 24 months. Garages will remain open as crews install the parking guidance system in phases.

In proactively considering the needs of visitors, the GOAA Board approved a committee’s recommendation for a camera-based parking guidance system that includes license plate reader technology that will allow MCO employees to offer assistance to guests who may need help in locating vehicles.

Once fully installed, the new parking guidance system will provide real-time information on approximately 11,000 spaces located throughout MCO’s four parking garages. There are approximately 23,000 total parking spaces throughout MCO’s campus, including the addition of surface lots Atlantis, Discovery, and Endeavour near the Train Station.

Orlando International leadership previously announced plans to open a Consolidated Rental Car Facility (ConRAC) that would make an additional 4,500 parking spaces available in the existing parking garages by 2032.

New Concessions

Rendering: When complete, MCO visitors will be able to enjoy more than 40 new restaurants, including Otto’s High Drive, and retail shops as part of Phase 1 plans.

Orlando International visitors will soon have even more options to shop, sip, and dine before their flights.

In addition to nationally-recognized restaurants and retailers, MCO visitors will be able to enjoy the best dishes from landmark Central Florida restaurants, including:

• Stasio’s
• Smoke & Donuts
• Kelly’s Ice Cream
• SoDough Detroit Pizza
• Milkhouse
• Jam-Eng
• 4Rivers

Each one is among the list of more than 40 restaurants and retail stores included in the first phase of a program that will transform areas of MCO to provide new experiences and appeal, expanded seating, and highlighting the offerings of Central Florida.

Passengers will be able to enjoy an elevated pre-flight experience, with Central Florida-inspired cuisine and shopping opportunities.

The blend of restaurants and retail shops selected as part of the plan will provide significant exposure for local business owners.

The first phase of the concessions plan approved today will focus on more than 77,013 square feet of restaurant and retail space – an area larger than 16 Boeing 747s.

Design work will begin in the near future, with renovations beginning by mid-2025. Phase 1 of restaurants and retail locations will be operated through agreements with a number of companies, including OTG Concessions Management LLC; Areas MCO 2 JV LLC; SSP America MCO II LLC; The Marshall Retail Group LLC; NewsLink of Orlando NTC I LLC; and VRG Orlando LLC (Village Restaurant Group).

Phases 2 and 3 of the concessions renovation plan are part of a broader project the GOAA Board previously approved to invest more than $65 million to makeover interiors of Airsides 1 and 3 and levels 1 and 3 of Terminals A and B. These renovations include upgrades to flooring, bathrooms, baggage claim, and gate areas.

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.

Musicians Tony Wynn (R) and Cameron Brown (L) kick off the holiday festivities at Orlando International Airport.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Bells are ringing and artists are singing, as the winter holidays arrive at Orlando International Airport (MCO). More than a dozen local artists and ensembles from across Central Florida will entertain MCO guests on select dates through January 1, 2025.

Passengers flying through MCO can experience diverse musical hallmarks during the holiday series with a lineup that includes everything from classic choral performances to smooth jazz.

The series is part of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s broader commitment to serving the community by offering exceptional experiences.

Santa Claus and special guests – including a pair of MCO Paw Pilots – will be on hand for a special Winter Celebration on December 19, from 11 a.m. – 1 pm. Festivities will include giveaways, face painting, music and more.

December 6

• DON SOLEDAD
• Latin Jazz Guitarist
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Gates 1 - 59 Checkpoint

December 9

• MIKE PETROVICH
• Spanish Guitarist
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Gates 1 - 59 Checkpoint

December 10

• MARIACHI ORO INTERNATIONAL
• Traditional Traveling Troupe
• 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
• A&B Terminal / Roaming

December 11

• ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA
• Strings Ensemble
• 2 p.m. – 3 p.m.
• Food Court, Terminal B

December 15

• MAGIC OF BRONZE
• Handbell Ensemble
• 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
• Gates 70 - 129 Checkpoint

December 16

• JOHNNY MAGNUSON
• Saxophonist
• 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Terminal C Level 6

December 18

• VICTORIA SCHULTZ
• Harpist
• 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.
• Terminal C Level 6

December 19

• WINTER CELEBRATION
• Santa, special guests + more!
• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Gates 70 – 129 Checkpoint

December 20

• NOVA ERA
• Classical with a twist
• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Gates 70 – 129 Checkpoint

December 21

• MESSIAH CHORAL SOCIETY
• Community Chorale
• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
• Gates 70 - 129 Checkpoint

December 23

• ROB HAZEN
• Multi-instrumentalist
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Gates 1 – 59 Checkpoint

December 28

• MARC E
• Smooth Jazz on Spanish Guitar
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Gates 1 – 59 Checkpoint

December 30

• RITA KAY
• Singing Guitarist
• 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
• Gates 1 – 59 Checkpoint

January 1, 2025

• THE ORLANDO KLEZMORIM
• Klezmer & Hanukkah
• 3 p.m. – 5 p.m.
• Gates 70 – 129 Checkpoint