Aug 27, 2026
MCO's Beloved Digital Ambassador Makes Her Debut in the Real World
ORLANDO, Fla. – Annie the Astronaut, MCO’s beloved airport ambassador, officially touched down in the real world today at Orlando International Airport (MCO), greeted by airport officials and more than a dozen mascots from Central Florida community partners. To download video of Annie’s debut, please visit this link.
MCO introduced Annie as a live mascot during a special public unveiling event. The debut marks an exciting new chapter for the character, who has welcomed and guided travelers by way of the airport's digital signage for nearly a decade.
"Annie’s astronaut theme pays tribute to Central Florida’s rich aerospace heritage and embodies the excitement, optimism, and sense of possibility that come with every journey," said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages MCO. “Thanks to our External Affairs team and creative partners for bringing Annie to life.”
Created as part of MCO's digital communications ecosystem, Annie the Astronaut was designed to make airport information, wayfinding, security guidance, and passenger messaging more approachable and engaging. Annie, who digitally debuted during the 2017 Thanksgiving travel season, has since become a distinct part of the MCO experience.
In fact, in 2025, MCO opened Annie's Space Sensory Room, a safe and soothing sanctuary designed specifically for travelers with sensory sensitivities and their families. The space features Annie alongside her canine companion, Luna.
Now, with the rendering of a live Annie mascot, MCO can take Annie directly to the Central Florida community.
“By introducing Annie as a live mascot, we’re creating new opportunities for engagement for everyone,” said Kenyatta Lee, GOAA’s Chief of External Affairs. “Through various events and channels, Annie will connect MCO to our passengers and community in a new way.”
The mascot was developed through a collaborative effort involving GOAA teams and creative partners, including Synect Media and Chicago Mascot.
The mascot debut celebration featured photo opportunities, interactive activities, themed giveaways, and special appearances by mascots from the following community partners:
- University of Central Florida (UCF) - “Knightro”
- Orlando City Soccer - “Kingston”
- Universal - “Captain Cacao”
- SeaWorld - “Shamu” and “Coral”
- Osceola Magic - “Swish”
- Orlando Squeeze - “Lil Squeezy”
- Orlando Valkyries - “Val”
- Frontier Airlines - “Grizz”
- MBC Concessions (Chick-fil-A) – Cow
- United States Tennis Association - “Rally”
- Orlando Pirates - “Arthur”
- Orlando Solar Bears - “Shades”
- Orlando Storm – “Kratos”
- SeaWorld - “Shamu” and “Coral”
- Florida Turnpike Enterprise “Sunny”
- Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) - “Sparky”
The live Annie the Astronaut mascot also supports GOAA’s Strategic Vision to enhance customer satisfaction. To learn more about the vision, please visit Elevating MCO & ORL: The Vision Forward.
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.
For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.