Orlando International Airport is experiencing major ground delays averaging 161 minutes due to staffing issues, affecting all U.S. departures from 10 p.m. to 3 a.m., according to the FAA.
Orlando International Airport hit a new record of 102,064 departing passengers on March 16, as swarms of spring breakers flood Disney World, causing massive crowds and overwhelming the city. Many travelers are heading to Walt Disney World Resort, leading to long wait times for popular rides and overwhelming crowds throughout the parks. The airport has advised travelers to arrive three hours early and has prepared for the influx of passengers by scheduling more staff and moving some airlines to Terminal C to ease travel chaos.
Over 100 flights were canceled at Orlando International Airport due to widespread pop-up thunderstorms and airspace constraints across Florida, with Southwest, Frontier, and Spirit being the most affected carriers. Hundreds more flights were delayed, prompting airport officials and airlines to assist affected passengers and apologize for the inconvenience.
Southwest Airlines canceled over 100 flights at Orlando International Airport due to thunderstorms and airspace constraints, leaving passengers frustrated and some stranded at the airport for over 40 hours. The airline cited challenges created by widespread pop-up thunderstorms and apologized for the inconvenience, but some passengers reported minimal compensation for the delays and cancellations.
Orlando International Airport's Terminal B was closed for hours due to an unattended baggage that was deemed suspicious, prompting a diversion of passengers to Terminal A and the train station. After an investigation, no hazardous or associated threat was found, and normal operations resumed. The closure resulted in flight cancellations, but road traffic to Terminal B has since reopened, with the airport prioritizing the safety of customers and employees.
Orlando International Airport's Terminal B and a main roadway were partially closed due to a "suspicious" bag, prompting an hours-long investigation by law enforcement. The Orlando Fire Department responded to the report of unattended luggage, leading to traffic diversions and unnerving many travelers. No hazard was found, and airport operations resumed before 9 p.m., but the incident left passengers feeling unsettled. Terminal B is home to several major airlines, including American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta, and United.
Orlando International Airport's Terminal B was closed for hours due to an unattended baggage that was deemed suspicious, prompting a large first responder presence. Passengers were diverted to Terminal A and the train station, causing flight delays and cancellations. After a thorough investigation, no hazardous threat was found, and the terminal was reopened. The safety of customers and employees was the airport's top priority, and apologies were issued for any inconvenience experienced.
Orlando International Airport experienced long lines and flight cancellations due to wintry conditions affecting air travel across the country, with over 10,000 flights behind schedule and more than 700 canceled. Travelers faced delays and extended waits, with some resigned to sitting and waiting until their flights were ready to go, while others looked forward to enjoying the snow at their destinations. The situation is expected to change throughout the day, prompting travelers to monitor their flight status and prepare for long lines at MCO.
Spirit Airlines has canceled approximately 100 flights in order to conduct "necessary" inspections on a small section of 25 planes, with the impact on its network expected to last for several days. The majority of the cancellations occurred at Orlando International Airport. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is aware of the airline's decision and will ensure that the inspections are completed before the planes are returned to service.
Spirit Airlines has canceled nearly two-dozen departing flights at Orlando International Airport due to a necessary inspection of 25 planes. The airline stated that the impact on their network is expected to last several days as they complete the inspections and work towards normal operations. Passengers are advised to monitor their email and check their flight status before heading to the airport.
Brightline has partnered with Mears Transportation to offer transportation services between Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World Resort. Mears Transportation's fleet will be incorporated into Brightline's booking service, allowing guests to plan and book their entire journey seamlessly. The partnership coincides with the launch of Brightline services between South Florida stations and Orlando International Airport. Brightline plans to build a station near Disney Springs and Universal's Epic Universe.
The launch of the Brightline train service connecting South Florida to the Orlando International Airport has been delayed again. Despite previous claims of construction completion, Brightline announced that they are still working on certification and testing. Service to and from Orlando will not be available from September 7th to the 21st, with the first available date for purchasing tickets being September 22nd. Passengers affected during this period are being offered refunds, upgrades, and discounts. The train's path through Orlando, including a potential stop near Disney World, is still being determined.
Orlando International Airport is expecting over 1.1 million travelers during the 7-day travel period around Memorial Day, which is about 16% more than last year. The busiest days are projected to be May 27th and May 26th. The airport is opening a new parking lot to accommodate the influx of travelers and recommends checking social media or the website for parking availability and security wait times. The MCO Reserve program is also available for eligible flights. Travelers are advised to wear slip-on shoes and leave jewelry on during screening, and to place electronics larger than a cell phone in their own bin.
Strong winds in Central Florida have caused flight delays and impacted baggage operations at Orlando International Airport. The National Weather Service issued a weather warning for the airport, and wind advisories are in effect for several Central Florida counties. The curbside of level 2 in Terminal C was temporarily closed due to storm damage, but has since reopened. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates.
Brightline has unveiled its new 37,350-square-foot train station at Orlando International Airport, which is expected to connect non-stop trains to Miami in under three hours. The company plans to start selling tickets in May and begin service over the summer.