The “New Normal” for Flying Through Orlando International Airport

in Travel, Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World

Orlando International Airport

Credit: Paul Hennessy | Barcroft Media | Getty Images

As the Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort continue their reopening measures, Orlando International Airport has taken the initiative to let all would-be visitors know what to expect during their visit.

On May 21, 2020, the TSA “implemented changes to security screening at airports nationwide that reduce the potential for cross-contamination and help prevent the spread” of the virus behind the pandemic. Earlier today, May 22, Orlando International Airport (MCO) shared a video of how those changed will affect their customers passing through on their way to Universal, Disney, or any of Central Florida’s attractions and destinations.

They shared the video over twitter and explained, “We continue to improve and adapt in order to create the safest way to travel for our customers. Here’s an update on some of our procedures to ensure a healthy experience to all.”

You can watch the full video here:

Related: Disney Enforces Use of Face Masks on Disney Springs Reopening Day

Changes at MCO

Message from Orlando International Airport
Credit: Orlando International Airport

Promising to meet customers’ expectations and bring peace of mind to their passengers and staff, MCO will implement the following changes:

  • Temperature Checks
    • Passengers may have their temperature checked with a contactless thermometer.
  • Social Distancing
    • Social Distancing will be enforced in the queues like those for security checks, passenger check-in, and boarding the flight. Markers will be placed on the floor and airport personnel will be on-hand to assist.
    • Passengers will also see social distancing guidelines on escalators as well as suggestions to keep elevators at limited capacity.
  • TSA Process
    • Passengers will be allowed to wear face masks through TSA screening. However, they may be asked to remove it momentarily to confirm identification. Passengers will scan their own boarding passes and all food must be in a plastic bag in order to be cleared.
  • Increased Cleaning & Disinfection Protocols
    • All of the following areas will follow increased cleaning and disinfection.
      • Security screening and checkpoints
      • Elevators and escalators
      • Recycling and Waste Stations
      • Kiosks and Touchscreens
      • Water Fountains
      • Charging Stations
      • Seating Areas
      • Handrails
      • Tables and Food Court areas.
    • Air Conditioning filters will be changed routinely and nightly cleanings will involve carpet cleaning and removal, HEPA-type vacuums, and more in-depth disinfection of public areas.
  • Protective Acrylic Shields
    • The clear protective shields will be installed in the following areas:
      • Car rental counters
      • Check-in counters
      • Food outlets
      • Information counters
      • Gates
      • Hyatt check-in
      • Retail
      • Security Checkpoints.

MCO strongly advises that all passengers wear protective face coverings, but face coverings are also already required on over 24 of the airlines that fly in and out of the airport. Passengers are also now allowed to carry-on up to 12 oz of hand sanitizer and are asked to wash hands frequently. Hand sanitizer stations will also be placed throughout the terminals.

There is no word yet how long these extra health measures will remain in effect, but if you are looking to be one of the first guests to walk back through the gates of Universal Studios Florida, The Magic Kingdom, or any other Orlando-area theme park, this is what MCO will look like when you arrive.

Related: Orange County Mayor Approves Universal Orlando Reopening Dates and Plans

What do you think about MCO’s new safety measures? Do you think they’re necessary? Let us know in the comments!

in Travel, Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World

View Comments (9)