Orlando International Gives Advice Ahead of Record-Setting Numbers

Orlando International Airport is gearing up for record-setting numbers. Find out if your travel days are impacted and how you can best prepare for them.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport (MCO for short) is a busy airport. Many people traveling to or from Disney World use this airport as it is only about a half hour away.

With Spring Break crowds and Easter holiday travel fast approaching, Orlando International is expected to be a bustling place!

Record Numbers

Orlando International Airport Resumes MODIFIED Operations after Hurricane Nicole — Credit: Monica

Can you believe that Spring Break is Orlando International’s busiest time? It’s even busier than the holidays! This year spring break stretches 44 days, beginning Saturday, February 24th and going until Sunday, April 7th.

“We expect to set a new Spring Break benchmark with more than 7.6 million passengers…This growth is actually a continuation of what we saw in 2023. For the year, we shattered all passenger records with more than 57.7 million travelers.”
– Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (Press release 3/1/24)

They are expecting to see an 11% increase from previous records. Check out the projected busiest Spring Break days below:

Spring break numbers MCO — Photo Credit: OrlandoAirports.net

The busiest day is projected to be Saturday, March 23 with 197,697 travelers.

What Does This Mean for You?

Important Information For Travelers Heading Out of Orlando International Airport — Photo Credit: MCO

Orlando International has offered some advice for travelers going through their airport during this busy time. They recommend the 3-2-1 timeline.

MCO recommends travelers use the 3-2-1 timeline. 3: Be at the ticket counter at least 3 hours prior to your departure time. 2: Head to security 2 hours prior to your departure time. 1: Be at your gate 1 hour prior to your departure time.

Be at the ticket counter at least 3 hours before your departure time. Be sure to head to security 2 hours before your departure time, and be at your gate 1 hour before your departure time.

Are you traveling during this record setting time? Do you use the 3-2-1 timeline? Let us know in the comments below, and be sure to share this post with a friend.

Source: Orlando International Airport Press Release