Orlando International Airport Holiday Travel Update

Press Release

ORLANDO, FL. – The Christmas/New Year travel period is five days into the 19-day time frame and Orlando International Airport (MCO) is on track with early projections, making this one of the busiest holiday periods in airport history. So far this holiday season, traffic is up more than 8 percent over last year with approximately 720,000 travelers already moving through MCO.

“With near record traffic expected and the potential for bad weather in the north, we must stress to passengers that they not be lulled into thinking the airport is not busy,” says Kevin Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “Arrive at the airport early. Allowing yourself extra time reduces your stress level in handling unexpected delays along the way from parking to ticketing to security.”

MCO is still expecting 3 million passengers during this holiday travel time. The busiest day is expected to be Monday, January 2nd with approximately 163,000 travelers.

Preliminary Holiday Stats:

  • Friday, December 16 – 145,300
  • Saturday, December 17 – 157,000
  • Sunday, December 18 – 149,500
  • Monday, December 19 – 142,300
  • Tuesday, December 20 – 125,300

Travel Reminders/Tips:

  • Do NOT bring weapons in carry on luggage to the security checkpoint. You will most likely miss your flight and could face up to a $15,000 fine by the TSA.
  • Allow yourself at least three hours of time before your flight to account for added roadway traffic, parking, ticket processing and TSA security screening.
  • Check Orlando International Airport social media platforms or website at www.orlandoairports.net
  •  for the latest parking updates and directions.
  • Remember you can do last minute shopping, even on Christmas Day, at numerous airport concessions.
  • Practice patience, you are not alone. You are part of 3 million travelers expected at Orlando International this holiday season.