ORLANDO, Fla. – As of 8 a.m. today, Orlando International Airport (MCO) ceased commercial operations in preparation of Hurricane Milton.

Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) ceased operations as of 10 p.m. Tuesday, October 8. While operations have ceased, the airports are not closed and will remain open to accept emergency aid and relief flights as necessary. Both airports will reopen as soon as possible based on damage assessment.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages and operates both MCO and ORL, continues to stress safety. The following is MCO’s status:

• A total of 806 passenger flights have been impacted today due to ceasing commercial operations.
• The last passenger flight to leave was at 8:02 a.m. with Detroit as the destination. The last cargo flight was at 9:05 a.m.
• Hurricane preparations continue throughout the facility, including securing the Gate Link and Terminal Link trams to and from the airsides, Terminal C and the Train Station.
• All non-essential airport personnel who are not on the ride-out crew have been sent home.
• The Emergency Operations Center is at a Level 1, the highest activation.
• Communications with city, county and state emergency management officials and the National Weather Service in Melbourne are ongoing.

GOAA wants to remind the public that MCO is not an authorized shelter. The airport cannot accommodate local residents during severe weather events. We will continue to monitor the storm and provide additional updates as needed.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) will cease commercial passenger operations at 8 a.m. Wednesday, October 9, at Orlando International Airport (MCO), and 10 p.m. Tuesday, October 8, at Orlando Executive airport (ORL). Crews are increasing their activity with storm preparations as Hurricane Milton barrels toward Central Florida.

While these airports will cease commercial operations, they are not closed to emergency/aid and relief flights and will remain open as necessary. Commercial operations will resume as soon as possible based on damage assessment.

Hurricane preparations throughout the facility, including sandbagging doors and tying down all boarding bridges, are being finalized. Communications with city, county, state and federal emergency management officials and the National Weather Service in Melbourne are ongoing.

GOAA wants to alert the public that MCO is not an authorized shelter. The airport cannot accommodate local residents during severe weather events. We continue to ask passengers to check with their airlines about their flight plans.

The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) is at Level 2, with Level 1 activation at 7 a.m. Wednesday. Staff will continue to monitor Hurricane Milton and make changes as necessary.

Common FAQs about Ceasing Commercial Passenger Operations: What does it mean to cease commercial passenger operations? "Ceasing commercial passenger operations" is an airline industry term to say that passenger airline activities will pause, but the airport is not closed. MCO will remain open only to accommodate emergency, aid, and relief flights as necessary.

Why did you decide to cease commercial operations? This decision was made to prioritize the safety and security of the traveling public. The airport, in collaboration with federal and airline partners, agreed to cease commercial operations to prevent aircraft from operating under unsafe weather conditions for landings and takeoffs.

When do you plan to resume normal operations? Normal operations will resume as soon as possible. Once a damage assessment has been conducted of all airport facilities and immediate safety issues addressed, the airlines will be allowed to resume limited operations, gradually building to a normal flight schedule.

I'm unable to reach my airline. What should I do? If you're having trouble reaching your airline, we recommend checking their official website or social media for real-time updates. You can also try alternate contact methods such as text or chat if available.

What will happen to my car if I leave it in the garage or other airport parking designated area while traveling? Your vehicle can remain parked in any of our designated parking areas until your return. In the event of suspended operations, vehicles will be kept secure. Standard parking fees will still apply when retrieving your car.

Is the Airport built to withstand a hurricane? Orlando International Airport (MCO) is constructed to handle severe weather typical of the Central Florida region, including hurricanes. We regularly assess and update our infrastructure to meet high safety standards for severe conditions.

What is the process for stranded passengers when the airport ceases operations? If flights are canceled and passengers are unable to leave as planned, our team will provide guidance on nearby hotels, transportation, and available shelter options. MCO is not designated as a shelter, so we encourage passengers to have backup lodging plans.

Am I allowed to remain at the airport? MCO is not equipped to serve as a long-term shelter for passengers during extreme weather events. For safety, we advise travelers to relocate to secure shelter locations outside of the airport. For information on emergency shelter sites and evacuation details, please visit the Orange County emergency management resources.

Will any employees remain on-site during the storm? Yes, certain essential personnel, known as “ride-out crews,” remain on-site during severe weather to protect airport facilities, manage emergency response efforts, and support operational recovery once conditions improve. These team members possess specialized expertise in areas such as airport operations, maintenance, and safety. While they don’t receive unique storm-specific training, they regularly participate in emergency preparedness exercises and are highly skilled in their critical roles.

How does the airport prepare for hurricanes? MCO has an established emergency plan that is reviewed and practiced multiple times each year to ensure all personnel are well-prepared for any potential weather-related incidents. Preparedness is a top priority for us to ensure passenger and staff safety.

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The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 57 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

ORLANDO, Fla. – On Wednesday morning, October 9, Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) will cease commercial passenger and private operations in advance of Hurricane Milton, a move made in coordination with our partners.

The airport is not closed and will remain open to accept emergency/aid and relief flights as necessary. We will resume commercial operations as soon as possible based on damage assessment.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages and operates both MCO and ORL, continues to stress safety. Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for flight updates.

GOAA wants to alert the public that MCO is not an authorized shelter. The airport cannot accommodate local residents during severe weather events. We will continue to monitor the storm and provide additional updates as needed.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Based on forecasts from the National Weather Service in Melbourne, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has activated its Emergency Operations Center to a Level 2 and implemented pre-storm procedures in advance of Hurricane Milton. These activities cover both Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports.

GOAA crews are going through their hurricane checklist and making plans to secure outdoor items, construction sites, and boarding bridges with safety as the top priority.

Airport officials are holding briefings with airlines and other partners along with activating the Aviation Authority’s hurricane emergency response plan.

We encourage passengers to check with their airlines as delays and cancellations are expected. They will provide information about any changes or policies that impact passengers.

The Aviation Authority will take protective measures throughout the coming days and will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates as necessary.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 57 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

Orlando, Fla. – With sessions that covered construction and engineering to corporate development, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s (GOAA) Small Business Development Department hosted its annual signature event Friday for the business community – “MCO Means Business,” drawing more than 1,000 participants to the Hilton Orlando on Destination Parkway.

Formerly called “How to do Business With GOAA,” the daylong event featured Community Partners, Speed Dating, Breakout Sessions and guest speakers – including Cassius F. Butts, former Presidential Appointee and author of “Exceptional: Being the Exception to the Rule;” and Bridgette Beato, CEO, Lumenor Consulting Group.

“‘MCO Means Business’ is designed for both aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals who are genuinely interested in developing a relationship with the Aviation Authority as we plan for future projects,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of GOAA. “We want all businesses to know what we’re doing at the airport and how they can be part of the excitement.”

A panel, moderated by Belinda Kirkegard, President of the National Entrepreneur Center, gave participants a chance to hear from four business owners representing engineering, mobility services and construction. The panelists told the audience to invest in their dreams and learn how to fail but bounce back from the challenges all small businesses face.

Following the panel and additional breakout sessions, GOAA presented an Industry Forum for its Consolidated Rental Car (ConRAC) facility project. The ConRAC will be an onsite facility, located near Terminal C, that will streamline services to make renting cars more efficient. All rental cars would be located at the ConRAC, which will help to decrease curb congestion and increase safety.

The Small Business Office connects local, small, and historically underutilized businesses to resources and contract opportunities at GOAA by providing personalized, equitable, and diversified solutions to current and future airport businesses, contractors, and consultants.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando International Airport (MCO) went to the dogs this Monday, as the airport celebrated five “dog-gone” great years of MCO Paw Pilot therapy dogs. The five year “anni-fur-sary paw-ty” took place in the airport’s iconic Hyatt Regency atrium and featured many of the program’s fan-favorite dogs including Bailey, Duke, Eli, Essie, Farley, Finn, Fitzroy, Gandalf, Jora, Kimbee, Livvie, Solly, Thor, Victor, Willy, and Woody.

Guests were encouraged to receive free MCO Paw Pilots swag, play games, take photos with the “pup-arazzi,” and, of course, cuddle and pet their favorite MCO Paw Pilots therapy dogs!

Designed to offer comfort to the traveling public, the MCO Paw Pilots program provides travelers a chance to decompress and cuddle with certified therapy dogs. Therapy dogs are known to help lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety.

The MCO Paw Pilots will continue to delight guests of Orlando International Airport. The public is encouraged to check the airport’s social media for announcements of MCO Paw Pilots appearances in the future.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 57 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

Orlando, Fla. – Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports remain open while Hurricane Helene makes its way into the Big Bend area of the Florida peninsula.

While the airport remains operational, there are a number of airlines that have made a corporate decision to cancel some flights for the day. The latest information available shows there have been a total of 65 cancellations at MCO, 31 arrivals and 34 departures, as of 4:15 p.m.

Passengers affected by the cancellations are advised to contact their airlines directly for additional flight information.

Currently, MCO’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains activated at a Level 2 status, which calls for actively monitoring the storm and weather forecasts from the National Weather Service in Melbourne.

In anticipation of the storm, MCO had lowered water levels in area ponds and lakes, removed portable signage that could be moved by the winds, reviewed emergency plans, and ensured that all emergency generators were working properly.

No additional updates are planned unless conditions warrant.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 57 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from down Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region

Orlando, Fla. – While Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports are both open and operational, crews with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority are undertaking storm preps in advance of Hurricane Helene out of an abundance of caution.

These storm preps include securing outdoor equipment, lowering water levels in area ponds, removing A-frame signage near certain parking areas, ensuring emergency generators are working properly, and pruning trees to minimize potential debris.

Team members have also held briefings with airlines and other airport partners as well as activated the Aviation Authority’s hurricane emergency response plan.

Safety is a priority and preservation of facilities are important during storm events.

The Aviation Authority will take protective measures throughout the coming hours and will continue to monitor the storm through the National Weather Service in Melbourne and coordinate airport activities accordingly.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 57 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from down Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region

ORLANDO, Fla. – Travel demand is driving another robust budget for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA). On Wednesday, the GOAA board unanimously approved airport operating budgets that will fund continuing efforts to maintain optimal levels of customer service as the Aviation Authority maintains financial responsibility.

The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget for Orlando International Airport (MCO) is $941,278,000, which is a nearly $110 million increase in revenue over last year’s budget. It includes no local tax dollars and derives the greatest portion of funding from airline charges, airport user fees, and parking & ground transportation.

Key elements of the MCO budget include: • An increase in Cost Per Enplaned passenger (CPE) from $9.28 to $11.92 for participating airlines • An $8.92M increase in Parking & Ground Transportation revenue • An increase of $46.8M in Terminal Premises rentals • A $3.1M increase in Rental Car revenue • A $10.4M increase in Concessions revenue

The budget for Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) is $10,692,000, an increase of $4,984,000 more than last year. ORL’s proposed budget reflects increases in aviation-related revenue and capital outlay expenses.

NEW FIRE CHIEF APPROVED Following the retirement announcement of the Aviation Authority’s first female Fire Chief Brenda Bishop, the Board approved her replacement. Deputy Fire Chief Timothy Mentzer will take over as Chief of MCO’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) department.

He joined the Aviation Authority as a Firefighter/Paramedic in January of 2004 and was promoted to Deputy Fire Chief in May 2023. He will assume his new duties when Bishop officially retires on October 4, 2024.

ARFF provides fire suppression, aircraft, and structural, emergency medical services (EMS) with transport capabilities and special team operations. The department is staffed by 107 total positions.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 57 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.