As part of a bold long-term vision to better serve a rapidly growing region, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board approved a transformative $5.9 billion Capital Improvement Program for Orlando International Airport (MCO), which includes $1.2 billion for a parking and rental car expansion program.

Consistent feedback from Central Florida residents and visitors shows strong support to increase capacity and convenience for parking. That demand continues to surge as the region expands. Since 2020, Central Florida has been one of the fastest-growing population centers in the nation, a trend reflected in rising passenger numbers and record use of on-airport parking facilities.

Earlier discussions for parking solutions included a $2.4 billion Consolidated Rental Car Facility (ConRAC) that would not have been completed until 2033. The proposed ConRAC has been deferred so that more cost-effective projects could take shape sooner, though building a ConRAC in the future is still an option to explore.

Early planning is underway on two projects to help meet future parking needs: The Terminal A Garage and Rental Car (RAC) Expansion and the New Terminal C Garage and Rental Car (RAC) Expansion projects. Collectively, these projects align with GOAA’s goal of increasing public parking by 8,000 spaces.

TERMINAL A GARAGE AND RENTAL CAR (RAC) EXPANSION PROGRAM

PROJECT TIMELINE GOAL: Opening in 2030

The Terminal A Garage and Rental Car (RAC) Expansion project envisions building a multistory structure adjacent to the existing Terminal A Garage, providing public parking spaces and spaces for rental car operations.

PROJECT FACTS

This expansion project will allow the airport to meet current and projected demand for MCO’s Terminals A and B. This project will:

• Make customer service areas bigger, better, and easier to use.

• Add Premium Reserved and Valet parking spots for faster, more convenient parking.

• Improve behind-the-scenes baggage screening to help bags move more quickly and reliably.

• Create more space for rental car pick-up and drop-off inside the airport’s parking garages.

• Upgrade rental car service areas so vehicles can be cleaned, fueled, and ready for customers more efficiently.

• Offer a more seamless rental car return process that allows travelers to drop off both their car and checked luggage in one easy step.

NEW TERMINAL C GARAGE AND RAC EXPANSION PROGRAM

PROJECT TIMELINE GOAL: Opening in 2030

The New Terminal C Garage and Rental Car (RAC) Expansion envisions construction of a new multi-story structure with public parking spaces on all levels.

PROJECT FACTS

This expansion project will allow the airport to meet current and projected demand for MCO’s Terminal C, including the planned Phase 2 expansion. This project will:

• Expand ready/return parking in the terminal garage.

• Add Quick Turnaround area at the Heintzelman Road Rental Car (RAC) vehicle storage lot.

• Develop bag drop alternatives as part of the rental car return process.

• Include additional amenities such as RAC Premium Service Program (PSP), and dedicated space at Terminal C for commercial ground transportation and rental car vehicle pick up for customers.

Developing these concepts will not only bring a tailored solution to parking challenges at MCO but will also decrease curb congestion, enhance road safety, and give passengers more options.

Current projects include installing a new Parking Guidance System to help drivers quickly locate open spots and converting the Terminal Top Parking Garage into dedicated Reserved Parking. Learn more about those projects here.