Peak of Nearly 8 Million to Impact Massive Orlando Airport, Disney World Guests Cautioned

Orlando International Airport is gearing up for one of the busiest weekends of 2024, impacting folks looking to fly in or out from their Walt Disney World Resort trip. Here’s what you need to know.

Orlando International Airport to Receive Peak of Nearly 8 Million Travelers, Walt Disney World Guests Alerted

With many developments underway at the Orlando International Airport, including the introduction of new flight routes and destinations, as well as plans for expanded international travel, the airport’s capacity appears to be reaching its limits. However, particular attention is needed for those planning a trip to Disney World this spring.

Whichever Disney park you visit in the coming days and weeks, including Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom, and EPCOT, you will see an influx in lightning lane individuals, Disney Springs crowds, limited Walt Disney World tickets, a packed water park, high prices for Disney Genie Plus, overcrowded Disney Resorts like the Grand Floridian Resort, and overall congested Disney parks.

A significant surge in passenger traffic is anticipated, setting the stage for a demanding travel experience. According to reports from the Orlando Business Journal, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is poised to witness unprecedented activity during the forthcoming spring break season. Projections indicate that a staggering 7.6 million passengers are expected to traverse through the airport during 44 days spanning from February 23 to April 7, 2024.

Should these forecasts materialize, it would signify an 11% upsurge compared to the previous year’s figures for the same duration of the spring break season. Kevin Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, asserts that such growth is not an isolated event but a continuation of trends observed in 2023. Travelers bound for Disney World in the coming days should brace themselves for heightened activity at the Orlando airport. I want you to know that adequate preparation and patience will be essential amidst the anticipated surge in passenger volume.

How You Can Prepare for This Influx of Travelers if You Are Heading to WDW

Ahead of the influx of travelers expected during Easter weekend, Disney World visitors can adopt a series of strategic steps to optimize their experience:

• Plan Ahead: You can secure preferred accommodations, dining reservations, and access to popular attractions well in advance to ensure you are not disappointed.
• Arrive Early: Maximize time and minimize wait times by planning to arrive at the parks before opening, capitalizing on reduced crowds and shorter lines in the morning.
• Utilize Park Apps: Access real-time updates on wait times, attraction availability, and interactive maps through the official Disney World app, facilitating efficient planning and on-the-go adjustments.
• Stay Informed: Remain abreast of crowd levels, special events, and pertinent park policies or procedural changes via Disney World’s official website and social media platforms.
• Maintain Flexibility: Anticipate potential delays, crowded areas, and itinerary adjustments. Exercise patience and adaptability, exploring less congested attractions or areas during peak times.

• Pack Essentials: Ensure comfort and sustenance throughout the day by packing essentials such as sunscreen, water bottles, snacks, and portable phone chargers.
• Utilize FastPasses (if available): Optimize wait times by leveraging FastPass or virtual queue options for expedited access to popular attractions.
• Consider Alternative Transportation: Mitigate parking congestion and lengthy wait times by exploring alternative transportation methods to and from the parks, such as ridesharing services or shuttles.
• Adhere to Health and Safety Guidelines: Prioritize adherence to Disney World’s health and safety protocols, including wearing masks in indoor settings and practicing social distancing where feasible, to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all guests.

By adhering to these recommendations and planning proactively, Disney World guests can maximize their Easter weekend visit, fostering a memorable and enchanting experience despite the expected surge in crowds.