Disney, Universal Parks Brace for 2 Million Visitors as Major Airport Faces Difficulties

in Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World

A large crowd inside of Orlando International Airport inside of a photo frame with the Magic Kingdom Cinderella Castle in the background.

Credit: Inside The Magic

Orlando International Airport is bracing for the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend for over 2 million visitors, including Disney World and Universal Orlando guests.

Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in front of Cinderella Castle at Disney World
Credit: Disney

Related: Disney Cruise Ship Makes Emergency Docking After Medical Evacuation

Orlando International Airport During the Holidays

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in Florida, known for its significant passenger traffic, especially during the holiday season.

Like many other airports, Orlando International experiences a surge in passenger numbers during the holiday season, particularly around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. This influx of travelers can lead to longer lines at check-in counters, security checkpoints, and baggage claim areas.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) expects a 17% increase in passengers during the Thanksgiving travel period. The airport is anticipating over 2 million passengers during the 12-day travel period. According to the TSA, the busiest travel days for Thanksgiving 2023 are: 
  • Tuesday, November 21: 2.6 million people
  • Wednesday, November 23: 2.7 million people
  • Sunday, November 26: 2.9 million people
Some say that the airport is bustling, but the rush of Thanksgiving travelers is orderly and well-managed.
Crowds flooding Orlando International Airport
Credit: News 13

Related: Disney World Robs DeSantis of Future Presidential Bid

For this Thanksgiving Holiday, it would appear that MCO is gearing up for over 2 million visitors, including Disney World and Universal Orlando guests. We know that not all these people will head to the theme parks. Many folks will be heading to places like Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Islands of Adventure, Universal Studios Florida, CityWalk, and Disney Springs.

Parking facilities are already filling up, and the Orlando International Airport has already sent out a warning to all guests traveling this week and weekend:

It’s been a busy holiday travel period and our parking facilities are consistently reaching full capacity. Prior to your travels, please visit our website for parking status, prices and locations.

But MCO is more than ready and capable of handling these large Holiday crowds. The airport event sent out handy Thanksgiving traveling tips for folks who will be traveling:

It’s #Thanksgiving travel time – please keep these tips in mind:

Aerial photo of Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando Resort.
Credit: @Bioreconstruct on X, formally Twitter

Related: Walt Disney Company Fires CEO Without Warning, History Made

To reiterate the above traveling tips, do the following before heading out the door as you head to the airport for your Disney or Universal vacation.

Travel Tips:

  • Arrive Early: Allow extra time for check-in, security screening, and other pre-flight activities.
  • Check Flight Status: Monitor your flight status online or through the airline’s app for real-time updates.
  • Pack Smart: Be aware of TSA regulations and pack accordingly to expedite the security screening process.

For updates on TSA wait times, flights, and more click here to check out the official MCo website.

Will you be traveling to see family or friends this Thanksgiving? Are you heading to the Disney World parks or the Universal Orlando parks?

Let Inside The Magic know in the comments down below! And have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

in Universal Orlando, Walt Disney World

Comments Off on Disney, Universal Parks Brace for 2 Million Visitors as Major Airport Faces Difficulties