11 Amazing Facts About Orlando International Airport (MCO)

1. What is the significance of the five-year anniversary of MCO Paw Pilot therapy dogs?

Orlando International Airport celebrated five years of its MCO Paw Pilot therapy dogs program, which provides emotional support to travelers. The anniversary was marked with a special event featuring fan-favorite dogs like Bailey, Duke, Eli, Essie, and more.

2. How are Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports preparing for Hurricane Helene?

Both airports remain open while Hurricane Helene approaches, but crews are undertaking storm preparations such as securing outdoor equipment, lowering water levels in area ponds, and removing A-frame signage near certain areas.

3. What new services are being added to MCO in October 2024?

Orlando International Airport is adding several new services in October 2024, including flights to Albuquerque, NM; Amsterdam, Netherlands; Bangor, ME; Cincinnati, OH; El Paso, TX; Evansville, IN; Grand Rapids, MI; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Hartford, CT; Jackson, MS; Kitchener-Waterloo, ON; Lancaster, PA; Lansing, MI; London/Heathrow, England; Long Island, NY; Manchester, NH; New York/Kennedy, NY; Ottawa, Ontario; Phoenix, AZ; Plattsburgh, NY; Portland, ME; Portsmouth, NH; Quebec City, Quebec; Tulsa, OK; Winnipeg, Manitoba.

4. What amenities can passengers find in Terminal C?

Terminal C offers a range of amenities including up to 20 aircraft at 15 gates, facial recognition technology for faster boarding, automated bin return systems in security screening lanes, and an RFID Tote Baggage Handling System for efficient tracking. International arrivals can retrieve their checked bags before proceeding to U.S. Customs and Immigration.

5. Which restaurants and shops are available at MCO?

Passengers can enjoy over 150 shops and restaurants at MCO. Some popular options include Cask & Larder Bar, Cask & Larder Market, Cibo Express, Cinnabon, City Arts Market, Cold Stone Creamery, Cucina & Co., Eola Market, Famous Famiglia, FarmAir Market/To Go, Firehouse Subs, and Food & Beverage Vending.

6. How does the Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program work?

The Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program allows guests to explore, shop, and dine post-security at Terminal C without a boarding pass. This program has become a permanent addition to the airport, making it easier for residents and guests to enjoy the airport's amenities.

7. What cultural events are happening at MCO to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

Orlando International Airport is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month with a special art exhibit and other cultural events. The celebration includes a distinguished collection of artworks from the Central Florida community that highlight the richness and diversity of Hispanic culture.

8. How is the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority managing its budget for 2024-2025?

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority presented preliminary budgets for Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). The total budget for MCO is $941,278,000, reflecting the authority's efforts to align the budget with its goals and financial constraints.

9. What is the significance of Labor Day weekend for MCO?

Labor Day weekend is traditionally a busy period for travel, and MCO expects passenger traffic to increase by 1.4% over the six-day travel period from August 29 through September 3, 2024.

10. How does MCO handle travel demand?

MCO is managing travel demand by investing in robust budgets and infrastructure improvements. This includes enhancing security measures and expanding amenities to meet the growing number of passengers.

11. What new destinations are being added to MCO's route network?

In addition to the services added in October 2024, MCO is also introducing new destinations in November and December 2024, including Cancun, Mexico; Chicago/O'Hare, IL; Columbus, OH; Erie, PA; Cartagena, Colombia; Des Moines, IA; Guadalajara, Mexico; Halifax, Nova Scotia; Harrisburg, PA; Houston/Hobby, TX; London, Ontario; Medellin, Colombia; Milwaukee, WI; Monterrey, Mexico; Moncton, New Brunswick; Ogdensburg, NY; Phoenix, AZ; Portland, ME; Sacramento, CA; Salt Lake City, UT; Tulsa, OK; Wilmington, NC; and more.