BACKGROUND

When Airside 2 first opened in 2000, it was originally designed with three wings in mind; however, to deliver the project on time and to maximize aircraft maneuverability in accordance with FAA rules, one wing was eliminated from the final vision that we see today.

In 2000, the addition of Airside 2 brought the total Orlando International Airport (MCO) terminal capacity to 24 million annual passengers. Even with the new addition, MCO was already exceeding that capacity with 30.8 million annual passengers at the time.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board at its September 2025 meeting approved the addition of $374M to the 2026 MCO Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), specifically for an expansion of gates at Airside 2.

PROJECT COST: $374 M

PROJECT TIMELINE: Planning begins 2026

PROJECT FACTS:

The approved CIP calls for:

• The addition of at least 7 new gates
• The creation of dual use ramp space between airsides 2 and 4
• Enhancement to the ramp area

This project will continue to allow MCO to meet future growth needs while providing passengers with the latest high-tech amenities they’ve come to know and expect from Orlando International Airport.

Now, as the airside enters its 25th year of continuous operation and the airport continues to see dramatic growth in passenger volume, the earlier decision is being revisited. Planning is underway to build the third and final wing of Airside 2, adding new gates and modern features. The expansion will allow Orlando International Airport to accommodate more passengers and more airlines. Another benefit of the proposed expansion is the added flexibility to enhance the ramp area and increase the number of aircraft overnight parking spaces available, meaning airlines can offer more early morning flight operations and service for our passengers.

The construction project will also include some updating of the Airside 2 hub leading into the new area to better serve and modernize the look and feel of the entire airside for all passengers.