News Summary
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority has approved a comprehensive 10-year expansion plan for Orlando International Airport, aiming to enhance passenger experiences and increase capacity. With a projected 15% growth in passenger traffic, the airport will add over 8,000 parking spaces, implement advanced technology like facial recognition, and introduce new outdoor spaces. The ambitious $6 billion investment will also streamline baggage handling and improve access, while preparing for future air taxi services by 2030.
Orlando, Florida – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has approved a comprehensive 10-year expansion plan for Orlando International Airport (MCO) aimed at enhancing the passenger experience and increasing capacity. Following a substantial 15% growth in passenger traffic between 2022 and 2023, with forecasts expecting an annual growth rate of 2-3%, the airport is taking significant steps to prepare for future demand.
Key elements of the expansion include the addition of over 8,000 new parking spaces to alleviate congestion, as well as advanced features such as parking spot reservations and a guided parking system. These innovations are designed to streamline the parking process for travelers, enabling them to locate spots quickly and easily.
In response to evolving travel needs, the airport is implementing changes to early and self-luggage drop-off services. Passengers will soon be able to check in at any ticket counter located within the airport, providing greater flexibility and efficiency. Furthermore, the airport will adopt facial recognition technology to replace traditional boarding passes, enhancing security processes and facilitating faster transactions.
To improve the overall experience, Orlando International Airport will also introduce new outdoor and entertainment spaces. Plans are underway for a bar and lookout area, bolstering the airport’s appeal for travelers. An ambitious goal is set to increase the participation of small businesses by 40% through the establishment of a new business incubator mentor program.
Another major aspect of the expansion is the construction of a new Baggage Handling System in both Terminals A and B. This system aims to streamline luggage processing, making it more efficient. Additionally, the airport will rename the existing terminals to Terminals 1, 2, and 3 for improved clarity.
In a move towards future transportation solutions, plans are in place for an on-airport AAM vertiport for air taxi services, expected to be operational by 2030. This facility is projected to significantly reduce travel times to nearby cities, including Tampa. The airport has also recently opened a new pedestrian bridge that enhances access between Terminal C, the Train Station, and the Terminal Link. This pedestrian bridge is equipped with bidirectional moving walkways to improve accessibility.
Mobile ordering services and upgraded dining and retail options will also be introduced as part of the enhancements. The total estimated cost for the airport’s ambitious expansion plan is around $6 billion, a noteworthy investment aimed at elevating the traveler experience.
The ongoing Phase 1 expansion of Terminal C will accommodate additional aircraft, ensuring that the airport can meet the growing demand for air travel. Infrastructure improvements are focused on creating a more welcoming and efficient environment, with enhancements planned from parking facilities to gate experiences. A third set of walkways is expected to be completed by 2026, coinciding with the opening of new rental car lobbies.
With this extensive expansion plan, Orlando International Airport is poised to enhance both its operational capacity and the overall passenger experience, addressing current needs while preparing for future growth.
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Additional Resources
- WDW News Today
- Wikipedia: Orlando International Airport
- Click Orlando
- Google Search: Orlando International Airport expansion
- Fox 35 Orlando
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Orlando International Airport
- WFTV
- Google News: Orlando International Airport 2025
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.
