When Will the Holiday Crowds Arrive at Orlando International Airport?
Many people will be traveling for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Find out when Orlando International Airport expects its busiest days!
Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO for short) is a busy airport. Many people traveling to or from Disney World or Universal Orlando use this airport as it is only about a half hour away.
MCO is consistently listed in the top 10 busiest airports in the United States due to the number of travelers visiting Central Florida. At over 11,000 acres it is also one of the largest airports as well.
We are happy to report that Orlando International Airport has resumed normal operations now that the flight reduction issued by the FAA has been lifted.
Expected Thanksgiving Crowds
The Thanksgiving travel period is 12 days longs. It begins today, Friday, November 21st and ends on Tuesday, December 2nd. MCO is expecting to see nearly 1.9 million travelers! Check out the expected travelers below:
Sunday, November 30th is expected to be the busiest day of the travel period with 177,400 passengers. Saturday, November 29th is anticipated to be the second busiest day with 175,855 travelers.
However, even with these projected numbers, none of these days are the airport's busiest day. Check out MCO's busiest day HERE.
Disney is even expecting higher crowds with Lighting Lane Premier Pass and other Lightning Lane options selling out.
What Does This Mean For You?
Orlando International recommends that travelers use the 3-2-1 timeline, especially when busier times are expected
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.
The 3-2-1 timeline is as follows: 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.
More helpful tips are to have TSA Precheck or MCO Reserve to help you speed through the TSA security checkpoint. A newer option for families is the "Families on the Fly" program. Also, be sure to have the Real ID for easier screening process.
And the most important thing that Airport officials recommend packing during this busy time…patience.
Are you traveling through MCO during the Thanksgiving travel period? let us know in the comments below, and be sure to share this post with your friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Heather loves all things Disney! She loves visiting her "home" as a Disney Vacation Club Member or participating in a runDisney event!
Source: flymco.com
