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Credit: Inside the MagicIf you are flying in or out of Orlando International Airport starting today, be aware that a new protocol has been put into place, relocating many airlines to the newest location, Terminal C.
If you are flying to Walt Disney World Resort, you are certainly stopping at MCO, Orlando International Airport. Here is where you will get your first glimpse of the theme park magic, with a Disney Store ready to take your money, as well as stores filled with Universal Orlando Resort and SeaWorld merchandise. Right away, MCO greets guests and visitors and lets them know that their vacation stops now.
Even though the Magical Express no longer runs to the Disney resorts, we have not seen a slow down in guests still flying in for their vacation.
As forecasted, Orlando International Airport (MCO) achieved a new high in daily passenger traffic as Spring break travel surged this year. On March 16th, the airport managed over 102,000 travelers, marking the highest single-day passenger volume ever recorded in Orlando.
This milestone follows the airport’s previous record-breaking performance in December during the bustling holiday travel period. Over the past decade, passenger numbers have steadily climbed, rising by nearly 23,000.
On March 16th, a total of 102,064 travelers passed through MCO, representing departing passengers. When factoring in arrivals, the total number of travelers doubled to 204,128, setting a new record for Orlando. This figure surpassed the projected count for the day, which was estimated at 196,920 passengers.
MCO had anticipated an 11% increase in passengers compared to the previous year. The previous daily passenger record was set on December 30, 2023, with 98,521 departing travelers screened at the airport’s security checkpoints. The new record was officially surpassed on March 15th, the day before the latest record-setting achievement.
The airport saw over 7.6 million guests utilize its services in March alone.
Now, as of April 1st, MCO is reminding guests that multiple airlines are relocating to Terminal C, which is important to know as the terminals are not easily connected, and arriving at the wrong one could have you missing your flight. This relocation will terminate the airlines from their previous terminal.
Airlines Relocation Reminder ✈️
As of today, April 1st, 2024, please note that Aeromexico, Avianca, and Copa Airlines have relocated their operations to Terminal C. Should you have any inquiries about your flight, please reach out to the respective airline directly. Thank you.
Airlines Relocation Reminder ✈️
As of today, April 1st, 2024, please note that Aeromexico, Avianca, and Copa Airlines have relocated their operations to Terminal C. Should you have any inquiries about your flight, please reach out to the respective airline directly. Thank you. pic.twitter.com/jLGtu18t7v— Orlando International Airport (@MCO) April 1, 2024
As we mentioned, the Magical Express is no longer available at Walt Disney World, which means a lot more guests are stuck finding their ride to and from the airport. While the Mears Connect service will pick guests up from their resort to return them to the airport at the correct terminal like Disney’s Magical Express once did (for an added cost, of course), those who are self-driving or using ride share to head back to the airport will need to know which terminal their airline is flying out of.
According to Orlando Date Night, “Terminal C is an architectural triumph where technology drives functionality. Designed by Fentress Architects, together with HNTB as architect of record, the new Terminal C comprises 15 gates, security, and ticketing, as well as convenient spaces for shopping and dining. With soaring lines and sweeping vistas, its iconic architecture creates an unparalleled “sense of place,” showcasing the natural beauty, vibrancy, and diversity of Central Florida.”
Plus, if you are a Harry Potter fan, the Universal Orlando Resort store in the terminal has a massive LED screen that runs up the walls and straight through the ceiling, bringing a fire-breathing dragon through the store in a realistic way that will have you jumping for safety, just as Harry did during the Goblet of Fire.
Overall, it is important to be aware of these ongoing changes to ensure you have a stress-free Disney vacation.
MCO has also warned guests about utilizing the 3-2-1 during this busy spring break season, especially as summer break approaches, ““In addition to being fully staffed and having more Customer Experience ambassadors available during critical hours, the 3-2-1 rule also can help ease travel. Arrive at your airline ticket counter at least 3 hours in advance. Head to security processing at least 2 hours prior to departure and arrive at your gate at least 1 hour prior to boarding. Also, always remember to pack your patience and never bring weapons through the security checkpoint.”
Do you plan on flying into Orlando International Airport this year?