Press Releases

  • Press-release-photo-Virgin-Atlantic-2026-06-12
    Virgin Atlantic Moving to Terminal C at Orlando International Airport

    Beginning Tuesday, June 30, 2026, Virgin Atlantic will transfer all their operations at Orlando International Airport (MCO) from Terminal A to Terminal C, meaning new arrival and departure journeys for passengers.

    Having launched service at MCO in 1992, Virgin Atlantic today operates a daily nonstop service between Orlando and London Heathrow, UK, and Orlando and Manchester, UK, increasing up to twice daily during peak seasons. The airline also operates a seasonal twice weekly nonstop service between Orlando and Edinburgh, Scotland.

    Virgin Atlantic’s move to Terminal C is timed with the opening of Terminal C’s expansion, which will bring four new MARS (Multiple Aircraft Ramp System) gates (250-254). The gate areas are capable of accommodating eight narrow-body gate equivalents or four widebody aircraft. Terminal C opened in 2022 and hosts the majority of international airlines providing service at MCO.

    The move is part of an effort to help balance passenger traffic across the airport complex, providing a more predictable flow at the checkpoints, concessions, and other areas.

    Arriving passengers can enjoy shorter wait times in Customs by using the free Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app. Visa Waiver Program travelers can use MPC after they have previously entered the U.S.

    Arriving U.S. citizens may also use Global Entry, a fee-based program for entry.

    Passengers with rental car and ground transportation reservations should contact their provider directly to confirm pickup information. Onsite rental car companies offer pickup and dropoff availability at Terminals A, B, and C. Passengers may drop off rental cars at any of the three terminals.

    Connecting passengers who arrive at Terminals A and B should follow signs to the Terminal Link tram to access Terminal C.

    Virgin Atlantic customers with questions about upcoming travel should contact the airline directly, which can be found on FlyMCO.com/airlines/.

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    Jun 12, 2026
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  • Press-Release-photo-America250-1-2026-06-09
    GOAA Proudly Celebrates America250 at MCO and ORL

    The grounds at Orlando International Airport feature landscaping to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday.

    ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) is hosting several events through the end of 2026 to celebrate and recognize America’s 250th birthday, with the America250 theme being featured across both Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports. The theme is part of Florida’s observance of America’s 250th anniversary of independence.

    The premier event for the celebration is the Liberty Weekend concert, a free patriotic concert featuring the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. The concert will be held on Saturday, June 27th, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a prelude concert by the Central Florida Community Arts Choir and the Col. Joe Kittinger Award presentation. The Kittinger Award is given to a distinguished military servicemember.

    America250 is the national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, celebrating the nation’s history, values, and future through education, engagement, and service.

    “Our airports, both former military bases, are uniquely positioned to connect our guests with the America250 initiative,” said GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle. “As the country continues to celebrate 250 years of American success, we want to reflect that celebration in our airports, which remain vital to our regional and national success.”

    Other 250-themed events include:

    • Independence Day Celebration. Noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 2, featuring entertainment and activities in the Atrium at Terminals A and B, near the fountain.
    • Patriotic Concert. 3:30 p.m. Thursday, July 2, with Summer Breeze of Florida. The concert will take place near the checkpoint for Gates 1 -59.
    • Art Exhibits. The Fourth Annual #FlyMCO Planespotting Exhibit, featuring red, white, and blue in the skies, will be in Gallery MCO from June 25 through September 10. The Third Annual Words and Wonder Poetry Contest, in partnership with the City of Orlando under the theme “Many Voices, One Sky,” will be on display at the Community Gallery from June 26 through August 31.
    Press-Release-photo-America250-2-2026-06-09

    Guests at Orlando International Airport will notice the following patriotic enhancements to their travel experience:

    • Special messages from Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer on Gate Link and Terminal Link trams
    • Patriotic exterior landscaping
    • Patriotic interior lighting
    • America250 informational and wayfinding signage
    • America250 plane spotting photography and poetry exhibits
    • America250 transportation vehicle wraps
    • America250 construction demising walls
    • Green screen photo experiences, featuring aviation and patriotic themed backgrounds.
    • Special America250 bandanas worn by MCO Paw Pilot therapy dogs

    Guests at Orlando Executive Airport will notice:

    • A special America250 greenery sign visible from the runway approach
    • Red, white and blue lighting
    • Additional exterior enhancements supporting America250 visibility

    America250 initiatives have included concerts and events, which will continue throughout the year. GOAA’s support of America250 also supports GOAA’s organizational objectives to enhance the passenger experience, strengthen community engagement, and showcase aviation’s role in connecting our nation’s communities.

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    Jun 9, 2026
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  • Press-Release-photo-Aircraft-demo-2026-05-22
    Orlando International Hosts Electric Aircraft Demo

    ORLANDO, Fla. – Orlando International Airport (MCO) was the site of electric aviation history this week when BETA Technologies, Republic Airways, Brickyard Connection, and Signature Aviation featured a demonstration on how BETA's electric aircraft and charging infrastructure will enable commercial operations across the state.

    The event took place at Signature Aviation's Arnold Palmer Hangar, located on the West Ramp of Orlando International, and showcased the complete system that electric commercial aviation requires: the aircraft, the operators, and the infrastructure to support them. The partners outlined how near-term cargo, medical, and passenger missions will connect Florida's major metropolitan areas with the regional airports that serve them.

    See the GOAA YouTube Channel for video.

    “Orlando International Airport is proud to host this milestone demonstration and to work alongside partners like BETA, Republic Airways, Brickyard Connection, and Signature Aviation as electric aviation moves from promise to practical operations,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “As a Florida gateway, we’re focused on preparing the infrastructure and operating environment that will enable safe, reliable innovation to support near-term cargo, medical, and passenger missions. Today’s event will hopefully help to strengthen connectivity across the state.”

    “Together, BETA, Republic Airways, and Signature Aviation are demonstrating how aircraft, infrastructure, and operators unite in a real-world environment to deliver repeatable missions and a clear path to commercialization for all-electric flight,” said Simon Newitt, head of sales and support at BETA. “BETA has flown more than 135,000 nautical miles in ALIA aircraft across the globe. That operational experience is what positions us to scale deliberately and efficiently for states like Florida, where near-term, short-haul cargo, medical, and passenger demand is strongest.”

    Earlier this month, BETA, Republic and Brickyard completed three days of high-cadence electric flight demonstrations at Kissimmee Gateway Airport following a winter demonstration campaign in Burlington, VT, and Plattsburgh, NY, earlier this year. The companies state the back-to-back hot- and cold-weather demonstrations prove the readiness of electric commercial aviation to support cargo, logistics, passenger, and medical missions connecting Florida's major metropolitan areas with the regional airports that serve them.

    Since announcing their partnership at the 2025 Paris Air Show, BETA and Republic have conducted advanced pilot training, operational integration, and performance evaluations along Florida’s I-4 corridor. Today's event translated that progress into a tangible demonstration of how the ALIA CTOL will operate in routine commercial service, connecting major metropolitan areas with the regional airports that serve them across cargo, logistics, passenger, and medical transport missions.

    About BETA Technologies, Inc.

    BETA (NYSE: BETA) is an aerospace and defense company designing, manufacturing and selling high-performance electric aircraft, advanced electric propulsion systems, components and charging systems to top operators worldwide. BETA has built and flown its family of ALIA aircraft, consisting of both conventional fixed-wing electric aircraft (the “ALIA CTOL”) and electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft (the “ALIA VTOL”), more than 140,000 nautical miles, including multiple trips across the United States. BETA is deploying a network of charging infrastructure to enable the growing industry with more than 100 sites across the United States and internationally. BETA’s intentional approach to developing the enabling technologies necessary to electrify aviation unlocks lucrative aftermarket revenue opportunities over the life of each aircraft. These highly scalable, enabling technologies allow BETA to serve a customer base across cargo and logistics, defense, passenger and medical end markets and unlock cost-effective and safe missions. BETA was named the #1 company on TIME’s list of the World’s Top GreenTech Companies of 2025. Visit www.beta.team for more information about BETA and its products.

    About Republic Airways Holdings Inc.

    Founded in 1974, Republic Airways maintains a combined fleet of more than 300 Embraer 170/175 aircraft, and its airlines offer scheduled passenger service on approximately 1,300 daily scheduled flights to approximately 125 cities in the United States, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean. The airlines provide fixed-fee flights operated under their codeshare partners’ brands: American Eagle, Delta Connection and United Express. The airlines employ more than 8,000 aviation professionals. Learn more at www.rjet.com.

    About Signature Aviation

    Signature Aviation is the world’s preeminent aviation hospitality company, offering exceptional experiences and essential support services to business and private aviation guests. The company’s large-scale infrastructure footprint enables travel, fosters human connection and is a critical global economic driver. Signature operates an industry-leading network of private aviation terminals, with over 200 locations covering key destinations in 27 countries across five continents and is the largest distributor of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in business aviation. The company also offers over 16 million square feet of carbon-neutral, multiuse office and hangar real estate globally, providing unique networkwide benefits and advantages to guests who base their aircraft at a Signature location. For more information, please visit www.signatureaviation.com.

    Media Contacts

    BETA:

    Republic Airways:

    Signature Aviation:

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    May 22, 2026
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  • press-release-images-aircraft
    Orlando International Airport Preparing for Busy Memorial Day Weekend

    ORLANDO, Fla. — The unofficial start of the summer travel season begins today with strong holiday passenger traffic expected at Florida’s busiest airport, Orlando International Airport (MCO).

    While early forecasts are about 4 percent below 2025’s record-setting Memorial Day levels, nearly 902,000 travelers are still expected to move through MCO during the holiday travel period.

    This year’s forecast reflects evolving airline operations, including schedule adjustments designed to maximize seating efficiency and changes in service from individual carriers. Even with those shifts, MCO continues to see robust holiday demand as travelers head out for the long weekend.

    Press-release-graphic-MemorialDay-Projections-2026-05-21

    During the six-day travel period, Monday, May 25th, is expected to be the busiest day, with approximately 165,000 passengers.

    “Memorial Day marks the beginning of one of the most exciting times of year for Orlando, and we are ready to welcome the hundreds of thousands of travelers who are choosing MCO as their gateway to Central Florida,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

    Airport officials are encouraging passengers to plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience by being at the security checkpoint 2 hours before a flight and arrive at the gate 1 hour before departure.

    With increased travel expected, parking facilities may fill during peak periods. Passengers are encouraged to plan parking in advance. Reserved Parking remains a convenient option, along with parking at the surface lots (Atlantis, Endeavour, and Discovery) and economy lots (North Park, South Park, and West Park Place).

    Passengers can reserve parking ahead of time through Reserved Parking at MCO or use the Orlando MCO mobile app before arriving at the airport.

    Helpful Memorial Day Travel Tips at MCO:

    • Allow extra time and be patient. Busy holiday crowds may mean longer lines, and a little extra flexibility can help make your trip easier.

    • Stay connected for the latest parking updates. Download the Orlando MCO app or visit our website at FlyMCO for real-time parking and security wait times. You can also follow us on Twitter @MCO or Facebook @FlyMCO.

    • Time your passenger pickups for a smoother curbside experience. Ask your party to call when they are ready to be picked up from the curb, and use the Travel Plaza or the North and South free cell phone waiting areas while you wait. For everyone’s safety, please do not park on the shoulders of airport roadways.

    • Check your bags for prohibited items before arriving. Firearms and other weapons are not permitted through security checkpoints.

    • Please take security procedures seriously. Comments made during screening can lead to delays, so travelers should remain attentive and professional throughout the process.

    • Keep your belongings with you at all times and do not accept items from strangers for transport.

    • Add identification tags to the outside and inside of checked and carry-on luggage to help keep your bags easy to identify.

    • If traveling with a pet or comfort animal, bring a leash. Pets will need to remain on a leash while carriers are screened by TSA.

    For additional guidance, travelers are encouraged to review tips from the Transportation Security Administration before heading to the airport.

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    May 21, 2026
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  • Press-release-photo-wings-and-wheels-event-2026-05-21
    More Than 4,000 Turn Out For Wings & Wheels Family Fest

    ORLANDO, Fla. – Clear skies, curious kids, and plenty of horsepower helped Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) soar to new heights Saturday as more than 4,000 children, parents, and community members from across Central Florida turned out for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s (GOAA) second-ever Wings & Wheels Family Fest.

    From helicopters and airplanes to sports cars, fire trucks, police cars, and specialty equipment, the airport ramp transformed into a larger-than-life playground where families got up close with the machines that move Central Florida by land and air. Guests explored interactive exhibits, climbed aboard vehicles and airports, and even got to meet some pilots, too!

    The free community event featured a wide variety of aircraft, vehicles, and hands-on demonstrations from various community partners.

    View our 2026 Wings and Wheels Recap video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WsAGbwyjGI

    “Wings and Wheels is about opening our doors to the community and showing kids that aviation can be exciting, accessible, and full of opportunity,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “You never know when a moment like sitting in a cockpit, seeing a helicopter up close, or talking with a pilot could inspire a child to pursue a future career in aviation. Events like this help us connect with families while encouraging young people to stay curious, dream big, and explore possibilities they may have never considered before.”

    The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority wishes to give a special thank you to the 2026 exhibitors, including:

    • AdventHealth
    • Orlando Flight School
    • Audacy Radio
    • Orlando Ghostbusters
    • Breeze Airways
    • Orlando Health
    • Cirrus
    • Orlando International Airport (MCO)
    • DeLorean Club of Florida
    • Orlando Police Department
    • Dream Cars 4 Kids
    • Osceola County Fire Rescue
    • Flight Sim Wings
    • Osceola County Sheriff’s Office
    • Florida Forest Service
    • Peter John’s Ice Cream (Food Truck)
    • Florida Highway Patrol
    • SeaWorld Orlando / Aquatica
    • Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
    • Sheltair
    • Gaucha (Food Truck)
    • Signature Aviation
    • JetBlue Airways
    • Spectrum News 13
    • Keepsake Photo Booth Rentals
    • Toys for Tots
    • Lee’s Famous Cheesesteaks (Food Truck)
    • Twisted Food (Food Truck)
    • MyFlight
    • U.S. Transportation Security Administration
    • OneBlood
    • Velocity Rally
    • Orange County Fire Rescue
    • Walt Disney World Resort
    • Orange County Public Library
    • WESH NBC 2
    • Orange County Public Schools
    • WOFL FOX 35
    • Orange County Sheriff’s Office
    • Women in Aviation
    • Orlando City / Orlando Pride Soccer
    • WUCF PBS-TV
    • Orlando Executive Airport (ORL)
    • …and more!
    • Orlando Fire Department

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    May 21, 2026
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  • Press-release-photo-ZipAir-2026-05-21
    ZIPAIR Returns with Nonstop Flights to Tokyo

    ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) today announced during its monthly Board meeting that ZIPAIR will once again offer nonstop passenger service between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Tokyo’s Narita International Airport (NRT), with three additional open passenger charter flights scheduled for August 8, 13, and 18.

    The additional flights are in response to the tremendous success of ZIPAIR’s inaugural nonstop service between the two cities earlier this year. The February/March flights marked a historic milestone as the first nonstop open passenger charter operation between Florida and the Asia Pacific region.

    Bookings will be available beginning in mid-June.

    The new flight offerings will continue to build efforts to establish regular scheduled service between two of the world’s most visited destinations.

    “The excitement surrounding ZIPAIR’s first flights exceeded expectations and sent a clear message that travelers want this connection,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages MCO. “The return of service is an exciting milestone and another sign that Orlando continues to strengthen its position as a truly global gateway.”

    The nonstop flights represent more than 30 years of efforts to establish regularly scheduled service between Orlando and Tokyo.

    “The success of ZIPAIR’s inaugural flights validated years of work and collaboration among our Air Service Development team and valued tourism and community partners,” said Vicki Jaramillo, Chief Commercial Officer for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “Travelers have embraced this service, and we are optimistic that this momentum will continue to create opportunities for future growth.”

    During the past few years, international traffic at MCO has grown, resulting in approximately 1.4 million more international visitors in 2025 than in 2023.

    As Florida’s busiest airport, the 9th busiest in the U.S., and the world’s 25th busiest, MCO could be on the brink to welcome even more international visitors in 2026.

    ZIPAIR operates out of MCO’s Terminal C. For more information or tickets, please visit ZIPAIR.

    Board Approves Grant Agreement for Roadway Improvement

    Additionally, during Wednesday’s meeting, the GOAA Board approved to accept a Public Transportation Grant Agreement (PTGA) for Orlando International Airport (MCO) from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

    This is an FDOT grant agreement providing pass-through funding from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).

    The $2.5 million grant will support improvements to Jeff Fuqua Boulevard and Station Loop Road at MCO as part of efforts to improve roadway efficiency.

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    May 20, 2026
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  • Press-release-MCO-ACI-CX-2026-05-13 1
    Orlando International Airport Earns Prestigious ACI Level 2 Customer Experience Accreditation

    ORLANDO, Fla.- Orlando International Airport (MCO) has earned the prestigious Level 2 Airport Customer Experience Accreditation from Airports Council International (ACI), achieving a major milestone that recognizes MCO’s commitment to creating a world-class journey for every traveler.

    MCO is now among 16 U.S. airports, and the only one in Florida, to earn ACI’s Customer Experience Accreditation. The Level 2 accreditation acknowledges MCO’s clear customer experience strategy, data-driven planning, collaboration across airport departments, and the tools that help identify opportunities to enhance the passenger journey.

    In its pursuit to obtain the highest level of accreditation, MCO’s Customer Experience team continues to enhance services based on authentic passenger feedback, including surveys and the Traveler Advisory Group (TAG) program, among other efforts.

    “This accreditation promotion reflects our commitment to ensuring every aspect of the passenger journey is carefully designed to make every traveler feel welcome at Orlando International Airport,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages MCO. “We are committed to continued investment in our passengers, our people, our community, and our facilities so MCO remains among the best airports in the world.”

    Orlando International Airport welcomed nearly 58 million guests in 2025.

    The ACI Airport Customer Experience Accreditation program recognizes airports making measurable enhancements that improve passenger satisfaction and create more seamless, enjoyable, and memorable travel experiences for guests around the world.

    The accreditation effort aligns closely with GOAA’s Elevating Vision, which focuses on four key pillars: Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People.

    MCO continues to invest in innovative and welcoming experiences for travelers, including the recently opened Flybrary in Terminal C, the first of three new Family Zones scheduled to open at the airport this year.

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    May 13, 2026
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  • Press-release-photo-Wings-with-the-Flybrary-2026-05-07
    Orlando International Airport Stretches Wings With New Flybrary Area

    ORLANDO, Fla. – A playful library and reading nook, perfect for storytime and fun, welcomed its first young readers today at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Dubbed the Flybrary, it’s the first of three Family Zones that will open at MCO this year.

    “As young readers travel though our airport, the Flybrary invites them to take flight with new adventures.” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “Orlando International Airport has made Community a foundational pillar, and we believe a good community partner honors stakeholders by providing new and exciting spaces to explore and learn.”

    The Flybrary’s aesthetics align with MCO’s design concepts by bringing Central Florida’s outdoors to the indoors. From the bookshelves resembling trees, stools resembling tree stumps, and carpet resembling water and plant life, the Flybrary evokes the natural beauty of the region.

    Floating above it all is a special vintage Lake Eola swan boat that pays tribute to Billy the Swan, Lake Eola, and downtown Orlando’s iconic swan population. The swan boat was specially restored for display in the Flybrary.

    The real Billy the Swan is recognized as being one of the first swans to be imported to downtown Orlando, before gaining an infamous reputation for his aggressive behavior.

    Nevertheless, Billy’s feisty attitude made him a hit with Orlando’s residents and his story reminds us that even the quirkiest characters can become legends.

    The opening of the Flybrary, a concept first embraced by MCO’s Comfort Team, is helping to fulfill a GOAA vision: to elevate the passenger experience with amenities that delight guests.

    “With the Flybrary, we are continuing to raise the customer experience here at MCO,” said Chief Customer Experience Officer Tawana Allen. “This project helps to improve the comfort level of our guests and allows them to experience Lake Eola’s popular swan boats in a different way.”

    The Flybrary is located post-security in Terminal C, Level 2, near Gate 240 and is open to guests during regular Terminal C operations. Nontraveling guests can also access the Flybrary by applying for an Experience MCO Visitor Pass here: https://flymco.com/experience-mco-visitor-pass-program/

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    May 7, 2026
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  • Press-release-photo-Spirit-Closing-2026-05-02
    Spirit Airlines Ceases Operations

    ORLANDO, Fla. - The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates Orlando International Airport (MCO), has been notified that Spirit Airlines has canceled all flights and has begun to wind down operations effectively immediately

    Spirit has been a valued partner at MCO for 33 years. Our thoughts are with Spirit’s 160 Orlando-based employees and the many passengers who are impacted by this action.

    Spirit is encouraging passengers to not show up at the airport. The Spirit website directs passengers to information about obtaining refunds, locating missing luggage, and other answers they may need.

    Airport leadership has been in contact with Spirit management at MCO and will offer support, where possible, during this difficult transition. Spirit Airlines is in arrears at GOAA. An exact amount of what the airline owes is being calculated.

    In March 2026, Spirit had approximately 496,000 passengers at MCO. During the next week, Spirit Airlines was scheduled to operate 237 flights out of MCO to 46 different domestic and international destinations.

    Following conversations with the U.S. Department of Transportation, American Airlines, United, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Allegiant, Frontier, Avelo, and Breeze have all agreed to support impacted Spirit passengers in different ways. Passengers should refer to each individual airline website for additional specifics.

    To assist travelers as they rebook flights, we have posted vital information on our FlyMCO website that shows alternative flights for various destinations. Our partner Visit Orlando has provided a link to Orlando-area accommodations offering special rates.

    Additional questions may be directed to the airline by emailing SpiritComms@FTIConsulting.com.

    About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

    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 nearly 58 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.


    For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.


    May 2, 2026
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