Orlando International Airport Expects Record-Breaking Holiday Travel
The winter holiday season has arrived and so have the travelers! Find out how many travelers will pass through Orlando International Airport this holiday season.
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 over11,000 acres it is also one of the largest airports as well.
Winter Holiday Crowds
Orlando International Airport is expecting recording-breaking numbers this travel season. There is an anticipated 3.1 million passengers expected to travel through the airport. This is an increase of 2.6 percent in overall traffic.
The holiday travel season begins on Friday, December 19th and lasts through Monday, January 5th, 2026.
Check out the picture below for the traveler projection:
Saturday, January 3, 2026 is expected to be the busiest days with a total of 196,212 total passengers arriving and departing.
However, even with these projected numbers, none of these days are the airport's busiest day. Check out MCO's busiest day HERE.
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.
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.
WARNING: those traveling with Avelo and Southwest (Gates 100-129) will want to budget even more time as the multi-year refurbishment that includes Gate Link vehicles, tracks, and electrical control equipment is now underway! You can read more about this refurbishment HERE.
Are you traveling to Disney World or Universal Orlando this holiday season? 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
