Orlando Airport Braces for 1 Million Travelers

Flying in or out of Orlando is often the most stressful part of a Disney trip (if you fly instead of drive).

Credit: Disney

Busy Memorial Day Week

Although it is often considered one of the busiest airports in America, it seldom sees traffic like it does on summer holiday weekends. This year the Orlando International Airport (MCO) expects over 1 million travelers during the next week surrounding Memorial Day, May 29, 2023. This is an increase in passenger traffic 16% higher than the numbers seen last year at the same time.

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Memorial Day often marks the beginning of summer and especially the travel season. Likewise, there is expected to be heavy traffic at all Orlando theme parks, including Disney’s Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. The influx of holiday traffic can also impact crowds at non-Disney parks such as Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld, Legoland, and other Central Florida attractions.

Credit: Disney

In anticipation of the busy season Orlando International Airport (MCO) will be opening the West Park Place parking lot to provide additional automobile support to all other airport garages and lots. This parking lot is located on Tradeport Drive and will offer airport travelers an additional 3,100 parking spaces.

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Travel Projections

The anticipated travel projections for the week of Memorial Day are as follows:

161,842 on Thursday, May 25

167,152 on Friday, May 26

169,659 on Saturday, May 27

162,025 on Sunday, May 28

164,719 on Monday, May 29

149,320 on Tuesday, May 30

151,783 on Wednesday, May 31

These predictions come from early indications of growing demand among airlines and seat capacity. This also points to a busier summer season for Orlando, the entry point to all the attractions Central Florida offers its many tourists.

Credit: Disney Tips

If you are traveling through the Orlando Airport in the next week, please remember to give yourself adequate time to go through security, make it to your terminal, and board your plane. Few things will drive a stake through the heart of a fun vacation more than missing your flight.

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