ORLANDO, Fla. – An airplane. Thousands of pounds of food. One mission: fight hunger in Central Florida. That mission was accomplished on Saturday, August 8, at Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), where the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) took community support to new heights at its 2nd annual “Pack the Plane” event, in partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

Central Florida residents packed a Cessna Citation CJ3+ with 4,638 pounds of food, the equivalent of 3,865 meals, to help families facing hunger across Central Florida. The total bests last year’s results of 2,774 pounds by more than 65% increase.

"Hunger impacts thousands of families throughout Central Florida, and every item donated will stay right here in our community," said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA. "We recognize that being a good neighbor means investing our time, resources, and partnerships to make a positive difference. Thank you to Second Harvest, and every volunteer, donor, sponsor, and community partner who made the event possible."

"We are thrilled to partner for the second year in a row with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority to inspire and engage the community to end hunger,” said Derrick Chubbs, President and CEO of Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida. “As students and families head back to school, this food will help stock their shelves and provide nourishment to learn, work, and thrive."

The donations collected will help distribute food through its network of more than 800 feeding partners serving Brevard, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, and Volusia counties.

The successful collection of food was made possible by collaboration with community organizations and dedicated partners, including Northern Jet, which supplied the aircraft that volunteers filled with donations. The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), Women in Aviation International (WAI), Cirrus, MyFlight, the University of Central Florida, and others were also partners.

The engineering, planning and design firm Kimley-Horn was the top private donator, and GOAA employees also contributed hundreds of pounds of donated items.

The primary beneficiary of the donations is Soldiers’ Angels, a military veteran’s support organization. While fighting hunger is serious business, the event still made room for fun, with family-friendly activities, including aircraft displays, games, giveaways, and food trucks.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Families traveling through Orlando International Airport (MCO) now have two more places to play, explore, and mentally recharge before takeoff.

MCO officially opened two new Family Zones today, one in Terminal A, and one in Terminal B, completing an initiative to strategically place Family Zones in all three of MCO’s passenger terminals. The Family Zones are designed to elevate the passenger experience with amenities that delight guests and make travel more comfortable for families. The new spaces build on the success of the Flybrary, a playful library and reading nook that opened in Terminal C in May.

“It’s exciting to add two more family zones to the lineup today,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer for the Greater Orlando Aviation (GOAA), which operates MCO. “All three spaces represent our ongoing commitment to elevate the passenger experience with amenities that delight guests and make travel easier for families.”

Level 1 of Terminal A is where families can discover a Florida-inspired soft-play environment, created with younger travelers in mind. The space features a colorful Florida themed carpet map, a Florida trivia kiosk, and a variety of soft-play elements designed to provide a safe and fun experience for MCO’s youngest passengers.

Additionally, Level 3 of Terminal B is home to an interactive Family Zone, which invites children and families to step into a digital world of motion-based games that encourage movement and friendly competition. Using digital displays and cameras, the experience provides interactive games where players flap their arms to fly, or strategically sort colorful luggage, all within the safety of a digitally rendered environment.

The interactive gaming area features technology installed by Central Florida-based M3D Technologies, a participant of the University of Central Florida’s Business Incubation Program.

“For parents and caregivers, airport travel can bring a lot of moving pieces: bags, strollers, schedules…and the natural energy of children who are excited to board an airplane.” said Tawana Allen, Chief Customer Experience Officer for GOAA. "Our Family Zones will help meet travelers where they are. They offer a place to pause, reset, and enjoy a moment together before the next leg of their trip."

The Family Zones are part of GOAA's broader strategy to enhance customer satisfaction and support the Aviation Authority's Strategic Vision Elevating MCO & ORL: The Vision Forward.

To learn more about GOAA’s Strategic Vision, please visit flymco.com/elevatingmco.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

MCO remains No. 1 airport in Florida; becomes 7th in nation and 25th in the world

FDOT Support Brings Florida Closer to Advanced Air Mobility Future. Surface Lot Atlantis at Orlando International Airport with the proposed vertistop.

ORLANDO, Fla. – In support of the State of Florida’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) initiatives and future aerial highway network, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board gave airport staff approval to develop a vertistop that will host electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft demonstrations. The action is subject to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval and support from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT).

The vertistop, a small takeoff and landing pad, will be located at Orlando International Airport’s (MCO) Surface Lot Atlantis near the Train Station. Once developed, the vertistop will support aircraft demonstrations in collaboration with federal and state partners, including the FAA, FDOT, the local air traffic control, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and National Air Traffic Controllers Association (NATCA). The planned development will also provide validation of approach and departure procedures evaluated in high-fidelity airspace simulation assessments.

In March 2026, FDOT was one of eight proposals selected under the FAA’s eVTOL and AAM Integration Pilot Program (eIPP), a three-year initiative to accelerate the safe integration of AAM aircraft into the National Airspace System. The GOAA Board’s action further supports commercializing AAM in Florida.

“It’s exciting to see yet another example of our industry working to establish Florida’s Aerial Highway Network,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “This vertistop will play a key role in the initial phase of Advanced Air Mobility along the I-4 corridor.”

“Today’s action reflects our commitment to preparing Orlando International Airport, and, in turn, airports across our great state, for the future of aviation while keeping safety, collaboration, and the customer experience at the center of every step,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA, which manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive Airports. “We are grateful to our partners at the FAA, FDOT, local air traffic control, NASA, NATCA, and the many public- and private-sector stakeholders helping to advance this work.”

The vertistop will be designed in accordance with FAA guidance, including FAA Engineering Brief 105A, as a landing and takeoff site with minimal infrastructure. MCO’s AAM planning efforts aim to avoid disrupting local aviation traffic by developing procedures that can operate independently from the legacy airport operation. MCO’s large landmass and parallel runway separation create the opportunity to explore eVTOL integration near its passenger terminals. All eVTOL aircraft operating near MCO are expected to utilize advanced surveillance and tracking technologies that enhance situational awareness for both pilots and air traffic controllers, further supporting safe and efficient airspace integration.

The development of a vertistop at Surface Lot Atlantis is an important step to validate the location for future eVTOL commercial operations on-airport and is part of GOAA’s vision to develop an on-airport AAM vertiport by 2030.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle, holding ribbon-cutting scissors, is joined by Virgin Atlantic Vice President of Airports Justin McDonald, right, and GOAA Board Chair Stephanie Kopelousos during the opening of Terminal C’s new wing expansion. Virgin Atlantic crew members, GOAA contractors, and staff were on hand to celebrate.

ORLANDO, Fla. - Orlando International Airport (MCO) marked a major milestone in its ongoing effort to elevate the passenger experience with the opening of a new wing supporting gate expansion in Terminal C and the relocation of Virgin Atlantic operations to the terminal.

A flag-waving crowd cheers during a celebration of America’s 250th birthday during Liberty Weekend at MCO.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Stars, stripes, and spectacle dawned Orlando International Airport (MCO) for this year’s Liberty Weekend celebration, bringing together aviation heritage, patriotism, and recognition of military service, during a special year marking America’s 250th birthday.

An audience of more than 250 and dozens of veterans attended Saturday’s event, paying tribute to MCO’s unique history and military roots and reflecting on generations of service members who have helped shape America.

The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra took centerstage in lineup of selections that celebrated the American spirit and created a memorable soundtrack for the occasion.

Liberty Weekend also included a presentation of the prestigious Colonel Joe Kittinger Award, which recognizes a local veteran whose service and contributions embody the values represented by the legendary aviator and veteran.

This year’s award was presented to Chief Master Sergeant Melvin “Mel” Jenner, a 103-year-old veteran whose lifetime of service and dedication exemplifies courage, commitment, and patriotism.

“Liberty Weekend is more than a celebration, it is an opportunity to honor the history that shaped this airport and recognize the people who shaped our nation,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “Once home to the McCoy Air Force Base, MCO’s heritage is deeply connected to service, sacrifice, and America’s aviation story. Events like Liberty Weekend allow us to preserve that legacy, celebrate our contributions to the nation, and recognize extraordinary veterans like Mr. Jenner.”

Chief Master Sgt Melvin “Mel” Jenner accepts the Col Joe Kittinger Award during Liberty Weekend at MCO. Maestro Chris Confessore and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra are in the background.

A veteran of World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, Mr. Jenner flew 46 combat missions over Nazi-occupied Europe as a radio operator and gunner aboard a B-17 bomber. His final wartime mission took place on D-Day, June 6, 1944, as Allied forces advanced across Normandy. Mr. Jenner’s highly decorated military career includes service in the U.S. Chief Master Sgt Melvin “Mel” Jenner accepts the Col Joe Kittinger Award during Liberty Weekend at MCO. Maestro Chris Confessore and the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra are in the background.

Army Air Corps and the U.S. Air Force, where he contributed to major aviation milestones, including support roles during the early era of supersonic flight alongside renowned pilot Chuck Yeager. He also flew missions during the Berlin Airlift, helping deliver critical supplies to a blockaded city.

His final duty station was McCoy Air Force Base, now home to Orlando International Airport, where he supported B-52 bomber operations and rose to become one of the first Chief Master Sergeants in the U.S. Air Force. This achievement reflected both technical excellence and exceptional leadership. Throughout his distinguished career, he received numerous honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross and the French Legion of Honor.

Mr. Jenner is the 12th recipient of the Col. Joe Kittinger Award. Col. Joe Kittinger (1928 – 2022) of Orlando is renowned for his pioneering high-altitude parachute jump from 102,800 feet in 1960, a record that stood for more than 50 years, and marked a milestone in aerospace exploration.

Artist Margaret Ross Tolbert expands her original installation with new large-scale paintings.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Gainesville-based artist Margaret Ross Tolbert is devoted to sharing the magic and mystery of the freshwater springs of the Floridan Aquifer, the state’s geographically unique underground water system, in an expansion of “Orlando Springs” at Terminal C.

In 2011, hundreds of her mosaic paintings were commissioned for “Orlando Springs” in the international arrivals area in Terminal A, Airside 1. The dense arrangement of blue-hued paintings, many painted on-site at Orlando-area springs, welcomed travelers for more than 10 years until international arrivals moved to Terminal C. Now, a fresh vision brings the relocation, reinstallation, and expansion of this imaginative work to a new space.

Tolbert’s artwork engages viewers on a springs journey across two levels in the Terminal C space. As travelers depart the airside via the domestic bridge, an escalator ride takes them up through the mosaics conceptualized to suggest passage through a water line, as if entering the springs. Once ascended, passengers are flanked by two new 30-foot-long paintings on Level 6 that evoke immersion in the underwater world the artist knows so well.

“The paint marks on the canvas are at once testament and code for the drama, perplexity, surprise, and delight I feel and see when underwater,” says Tolbert. “There’s a part of me that wants to say, ‘I didn’t make this up!’”

Indeed, Tolbert’s artistic process and lifestyle involve countless hours spent at Florida springs,observing, experiencing, and documenting from above and within. One of the new paintings is based on Cannon Springs, a small springs on the Ocklawaha River that is only visible during the drawdowns on the Rodman Dam, when the water level drops enough to reveal the aquifer activity.

“It reveals frenzied and jubilant activity when the light hits it. Jets of sand and silt flow up from the force of the water pumping out of cave vents,” says Tolbert. “Bubbles of dissolved oxygen course through the springs. Long strands of vegetation lean in the current. We are all propelled by this current, the soundless force that we sense in this spring.”

The other large-scale addition captures a variety of underwater garden activity, Tolbert explains. “Long strands of eelgrass drift into the center panels of the painting, linking them together. Hints of the dark form of a manatee trawling underwater meadows are superseded by the turquoise of the water’s eye of the springs. Above, cypress seedlings and flower blossoms crowd to the surface. The warm colors of the karst rocks, which hold and transmit the water in the craters and pores, appear intermittently in the painting.”

Completing the installation, a colorful acrylic map on Level 4 highlights the Floridan Aquifer Springsheds & Springs water system and pinpoints locations of Central Florida springs.

“Margaret Tolbert’s expanded ‘Orlando Springs’ installation transforms Terminal C into a space that reflects the beauty, energy, and sense of place that make Central Florida so distinctive,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO, of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates Orlando International Airport. “As we continue to elevate the traveler experience, we are proud to showcase public art that welcomes our guests with a memorable connection to our region’s natural environment.”

Tolbert holds an MFA from the University of Florida and works primarily in oil and mixed media. Her work has appeared in the United States, Europe, and Asia as exhibits, installations, and commissions. She authored two books: Proje-SU (Water Project): Art Science Tradition and Myth from Ancient Water Cultures in Southwestern Turkey (2024) and AQUIFERious (2010).

In keeping with its foundational pillars of Customer Service, Community, Infrastructure, and People, GOAA continues its commitment to a model program of art in public spaces and values the enrichment that public art adds to the customer experience.

Beginning Tuesday, June 30, 2026, Virgin Atlantic will transfer all their operations at Orlando International Airport (MCO) from Terminal A to Terminal C, meaning new arrival and departure journeys for passengers.

Having launched service at MCO in 1992, Virgin Atlantic today operates a daily nonstop service between Orlando and London Heathrow, UK, and Orlando and Manchester, UK, increasing up to twice daily during peak seasons. The airline also operates a seasonal twice weekly nonstop service between Orlando and Edinburgh, Scotland.

Virgin Atlantic’s move to Terminal C is timed with the opening of Terminal C’s expansion, which will bring four new MARS (Multiple Aircraft Ramp System) gates (250-254). The gate areas are capable of accommodating eight narrow-body gate equivalents or four widebody aircraft. Terminal C opened in 2022 and hosts the majority of international airlines providing service at MCO.

The move is part of an effort to help balance passenger traffic across the airport complex, providing a more predictable flow at the checkpoints, concessions, and other areas.

The grounds at Orlando International Airport feature landscaping to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) is hosting several events through the end of 2026 to celebrate and recognize America’s 250th birthday, with the America250 theme being featured across both Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports. The theme is part of Florida’s observance of America’s 250th anniversary of independence.

The premier event for the celebration is the Liberty Weekend concert, a free patriotic concert featuring the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. The concert will be held on Saturday, June 27th, beginning at 6:30 p.m. with a prelude concert by the Central Florida Community Arts Choir and the Col. Joe Kittinger Award presentation. The Kittinger Award is given to a distinguished military servicemember.

America250 is the national commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the United States, celebrating the nation’s history, values, and future through education, engagement, and service.

“Our airports, both former military bases, are uniquely positioned to connect our guests with the America250 initiative,” said GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle. “As the country continues to celebrate 250 years of American success, we want to reflect that celebration in our airports, which remain vital to our regional and national success.”

Other 250-themed events include:

• Independence Day Celebration. Noon to 2 p.m. Thursday, July 2, featuring entertainment and activities in the Atrium at Terminals A and B, near the fountain.
• Patriotic Concert. 3:30 p.m. Thursday, July 2, with Summer Breeze of Florida. The concert will take place near the checkpoint for Gates 1 -59.
• Art Exhibits. The Fourth Annual #FlyMCO Planespotting Exhibit, featuring red, white, and blue in the skies, will be in Gallery MCO from June 25 through September 10. The Third Annual Words and Wonder Poetry Contest, in partnership with the City of Orlando under the theme “Many Voices, One Sky,” will be on display at the Community Gallery from June 26 through August 31.

Guests at Orlando International Airport will notice the following patriotic enhancements to their travel experience:

• Special messages from Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer on Gate Link and Terminal Link trams
• Patriotic exterior landscaping
• Patriotic interior lighting
• America250 informational and wayfinding signage
• America250 plane spotting photography and poetry exhibits
• America250 transportation vehicle wraps
• America250 construction demising walls
• Green screen photo experiences, featuring aviation and patriotic themed backgrounds.
• Special America250 bandanas worn by MCO Paw Pilot therapy dogs

Guests at Orlando Executive Airport will notice:

• A special America250 greenery sign visible from the runway approach
• Red, white and blue lighting
• Additional exterior enhancements supporting America250 visibility

America250 initiatives have included concerts and events, which will continue throughout the year. GOAA’s support of America250 also supports GOAA’s organizational objectives to enhance the passenger experience, strengthen community engagement, and showcase aviation’s role in connecting our nation’s communities.

About Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.