Orlando, located in Central Florida, is the 24th-largest metropolitan area in the United States and the third-largest in Florida. Known worldwide for major attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, the region draws millions of visitors each year and is served by the state’s busiest airport.
Orlando International Airport ranks as the 13th-largest airport in the United States, handling roughly 44.6 million passengers annually. Many travelers arrive to experience the “Theme Park Capital of the World,” with the area’s tourist attractions bringing in tens of millions of visitors. The airport’s central location—within about a two-hour drive of more than 60 percent of Florida’s population—helps support the broader region and contributes significantly to the local economy, generating over $31 billion in regional revenue.
Originally the site of McCoy Air Force Base, Orlando’s airport saw record passenger traffic in recent years and continues to expand. In January 2018, MCO served more than 3.9 million travelers, an increase of about 8 percent compared with the previous January, and projections indicate the airport is on track to exceed 45 million annual passengers. Daily traffic averages roughly 123,796 passengers, with more than 40 airlines operating flights to more than 80 domestic and over 50 international destinations.
To accommodate growing demand, airlines added significant seat capacity. Carriers including Frontier, Spirit, Southwest, JetBlue and Azul increased available seats by about 250,000 as of November, expanding options for travelers. In March, several airlines launched or expanded routes to domestic and international destinations, such as Virgin Atlantic service to Belfast (BFS), Delta Air Lines flights to Amsterdam (AMS) and Southwest Airlines service to Oakland, California (OAK).
Beyond capacity and route growth, Orlando International focuses on enhancing the passenger experience through a cohesive airportwide design initiative called The Orlando Experience. Notable features include a 1,560-foot video wall behind the check-in area and additional video displays throughout the terminals, creating an immersive environment for travelers. In December, the airport introduced a series of vibrant “welcome mats,” colorful floor-to-ceiling installations that reflect Central Florida’s spirit and help orient arriving guests.
The emphasis on service and facilities has earned recognition: Orlando International Airport was ranked No. 1 for overall customer satisfaction in the 2017 J.D. Power North American Airport Satisfaction Study. The ranking evaluated performance across six categories—terminal facilities, airport accessibility, security check, baggage claim, check-in/baggage check, and food, beverage and retail—and MCO led its size classification by a wide margin.
Major infrastructure investment is also underway with the South Terminal Complex, a $2.1 billion project that began in 2017. Once completed over a multi-year timeline, the STC will be one of Central Florida’s largest public works projects. Phase one includes a 2.7-million-square-foot terminal serving both domestic and international flights, 16 new airline gates and an expanded landside terminal to improve passenger flow and operations.
To support growing passenger volumes and reduce congestion, January saw the opening of a new “C” garage and an Automated People Mover Complex. These additions help ease parking and roadway pressure in the north side of the airport and streamline access to terminals.
With continuous expansion, infrastructure upgrades and a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Orlando International Airport is positioned for ongoing growth while maintaining a high level of service for travelers to and through Central Florida.