News Summary
Orlando International Airport and Kissimmee Gateway Airport are set to receive significant renovations funded by $72 million in infrastructure grants. Key developments include the expansion of Terminal C at MCO, enhancements to the apron, and improvements at Kissimmee Gateway Airport. As Orlando sees a surge in passenger traffic, these upgrades aim to enhance operational capacity and passenger experience, ensuring the airports remain equipped for future growth.
Orlando Announces Major Renovations for Airports with $72 Million Infrastructure Grants
Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Kissimmee Gateway Airport are set to undergo significant renovations, thanks to a total of $72 million in new infrastructure grants. MCO will receive almost $15 million to expand Terminal C, which will see a spacious increase of over 203,000 square feet and the addition of a pedestrian connector bridge. Furthermore, an investment of $12 million will be made to expand the Terminal C apron by more than 138,000 square yards to facilitate increased aircraft operations.
Kissimmee Gateway Airport will benefit from a $1.5 million allocation dedicated to reconstructing lighting on Taxiway A, which has reached the end of its useful life. These enhancements are part of a larger effort to improve facilities and services at both airports, catering to the rising number of travelers.
Rising Passenger Traffic at Orlando International Airport
In 2024, Orlando International Airport handled over 57 million passengers, affirming its status as the seventh-busiest airport in the United States. This figure surpasses that of Miami International Airport by nearly 4 million passengers. MCO serves as the primary gateway for tourists visiting Central Florida’s renowned theme parks, making these renovations crucial for managing the continued growth in passenger traffic.
Recent Developments and Future Plans
Terminal C, which opened in September 2022, was a significant investment at nearly $3 billion and featured modern upgrades, including an advanced baggage handling system and ample natural lighting. However, the improvements don’t stop there. The airport is planning refurbishments for the interiors of Airsides 1 & 3, as well as Terminals A & B, with an estimated cost of nearly $72 million. This refurbishment will entail new flooring, wall finishes, ceilings, lighting enhancements, and expanded restroom facilities.
By winter 2025, an additional eight gates will join the existing fifteen at Terminal C, increasing capacity to meet the demand. Future plans also include the construction of a third terminal, Terminal D, which is designed to accommodate an impressive annual capacity of up to 60 million passengers and will be constructed adjacent to Terminal C.
Timelines and Objectives for Renovations
Construction for the main terminal refurbishments is expected to commence in 2025, with a goal for substantial completion by 2028. Part of the upgrades will involve relocating restroom facilities at the Airsides to enhance the overall passenger experience. Furthermore, MCO aims to replace vendor concessions with businesses that focus on Florida themes to enrich the travel experience for visitors.
Additional Expansions and Economic Impact
In a parallel development, United Airlines is embarking on a $315 million expansion project at Orlando International Airport. This endeavor will include a new maintenance campus featuring two hangars and a warehouse to support approximately 1,000 employees. The expansion efforts at MCO highlight a broader trend of economic growth in the area, ensuring that the airport can meet both current and future demands.
With ongoing renovations and expansion plans, Orlando International Airport is positioning itself to handle increasing passenger volumes while enhancing the overall travel experience. These developments are instrumental for Orlando’s economy as it continues to attract tourists from around the globe.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Orlando’s Culinary Landscape Shines in MICHELIN Guide
Sanford, Florida Embraces Golf Carts for Eco-Friendly Travel
Historic Winter Storm Hits Florida with Record Snowfall
Orlando International Airport Sees Surge in Holiday Travel
Florida Leads US Migration Trends in 2025
Severe Thunderstorms Disrupt Memorial Day Travel Plans
Orlando Prepares for Memorial Day Weekend Travel Surge
Thunderstorms Disrupt Flights at Orlando International Airport
Orlando Magic Partners with SAS to Enhance Fan Experience
Tuskegee Airman to Receive Col. Joe Kittinger Award
Additional Resources
- Simple Flying: Orlando International Airport Expansion Latest
- Wikipedia: Orlando International Airport
- Click Orlando: Orlando International Airport Announces $72M in Renovations
- Google Search: Orlando International Airport renovations
- WFTV: Orlando International Airport Plans $50 Million Renovation
- Google Scholar: Orlando International Airport expansion
- Aviacionline: United Airlines Begins Construction of a New $315 Million Maintenance Center in Orlando
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
