Warning: Spring Break Crowds Have Arrived at Orlando International Airport
Spring Break crowds have arrived at Orlando International Airport. Find out when the busiest travel days are expected.
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.
At over 11,000 acres it is also one of the largest airports as well. MCO announced a multi-year refurbishment. This will include its Gate Link vehicles, tracks, and electrical control equipment. Check out how this will affect your next flight HERE.
Spring Break Crowds
Spring Break is one of the busiest travel periods. It is a 46-day travel period that will end on April 7th. Orlando International Airport is expected to see its busiest days during March 12th and March 16th! The airport could even surpass their busiest day ever during this time.
March 15, 2026 is anticipated to be the busiest day of travel during Spring Break. An expected 212,000 travelers will travel through the airport.
There will be nearly 53,000 flights that will travel in and out of the airport during this year's Spring Break. The airport also anticipates more than 7.4 million passengers to travel through the airport during Spring Break.
The busiest day projected during the Spring Break travel period is March 15th, which is expected to have 212,000 travelers through the airport!
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. Global Entry has recently resumed operations as well!
Another 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
Will you be traveling through Orlando International Airport during the busy Spring Break 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!
