ORLANDO, Fla. – On Wednesday morning, October 9, Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) will cease commercial passenger and private operations in advance of Hurricane Milton, a move made in coordination with our partners.

The airport is not closed and will remain open to accept emergency/aid and relief flights as necessary. We will resume commercial operations as soon as possible based on damage assessment.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages and operates both MCO and ORL, continues to stress safety. Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for flight updates.

GOAA wants to alert the public that MCO is not an authorized shelter. The airport cannot accommodate local residents during severe weather events. We will continue to monitor the storm and provide additional updates as needed.

ORLANDO, Fla. – Based on forecasts from the National Weather Service in Melbourne, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has activated its Emergency Operations Center to a Level 2 and implemented pre-storm procedures in advance of Hurricane Milton. These activities cover both Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports.

GOAA crews are going through their hurricane checklist and making plans to secure outdoor items, construction sites, and boarding bridges with safety as the top priority.

Airport officials are holding briefings with airlines and other partners along with activating the Aviation Authority’s hurricane emergency response plan.

We encourage passengers to check with their airlines as delays and cancellations are expected. They will provide information about any changes or policies that impact passengers.

The Aviation Authority will take protective measures throughout the coming days and will continue to monitor the storm and provide updates as necessary.

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 more than 57 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. – With sessions that covered construction and engineering to corporate development, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s (GOAA) Small Business Development Department hosted its annual signature event Friday for the business community – “MCO Means Business,” drawing more than 1,000 participants to the Hilton Orlando on Destination Parkway.

Formerly called “How to do Business With GOAA,” the daylong event featured Community Partners, Speed Dating, Breakout Sessions and guest speakers – including Cassius F. Butts, former Presidential Appointee and author of “Exceptional: Being the Exception to the Rule;” and Bridgette Beato, CEO, Lumenor Consulting Group.

“‘MCO Means Business’ is designed for both aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned professionals who are genuinely interested in developing a relationship with the Aviation Authority as we plan for future projects,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of GOAA. “We want all businesses to know what we’re doing at the airport and how they can be part of the excitement.”

A panel, moderated by Belinda Kirkegard, President of the National Entrepreneur Center, gave participants a chance to hear from four business owners representing engineering, mobility services and construction. The panelists told the audience to invest in their dreams and learn how to fail but bounce back from the challenges all small businesses face.

Following the panel and additional breakout sessions, GOAA presented an Industry Forum for its Consolidated Rental Car (ConRAC) facility project. The ConRAC will be an onsite facility, located near Terminal C, that will streamline services to make renting cars more efficient. All rental cars would be located at the ConRAC, which will help to decrease curb congestion and increase safety.

The Small Business Office connects local, small, and historically underutilized businesses to resources and contract opportunities at GOAA by providing personalized, equitable, and diversified solutions to current and future airport businesses, contractors, and consultants.

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Orlando International Airport (MCO) went to the dogs this Monday, as the airport celebrated five “dog-gone” great years of MCO Paw Pilot therapy dogs. The five year “anni-fur-sary paw-ty” took place in the airport’s iconic Hyatt Regency atrium and featured many of the program’s fan-favorite dogs including Bailey, Duke, Eli, Essie, Farley, Finn, Fitzroy, Gandalf, Jora, Kimbee, Livvie, Solly, Thor, Victor, Willy, and Woody.

Guests were encouraged to receive free MCO Paw Pilots swag, play games, take photos with the “pup-arazzi,” and, of course, cuddle and pet their favorite MCO Paw Pilots therapy dogs!

Designed to offer comfort to the traveling public, the MCO Paw Pilots program provides travelers a chance to decompress and cuddle with certified therapy dogs. Therapy dogs are known to help lower blood pressure, heart rate, and anxiety.

The MCO Paw Pilots will continue to delight guests of Orlando International Airport. The public is encouraged to check the airport’s social media for announcements of MCO Paw Pilots appearances in the future.

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 more than 57 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. – Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports remain open while Hurricane Helene makes its way into the Big Bend area of the Florida peninsula.

While the airport remains operational, there are a number of airlines that have made a corporate decision to cancel some flights for the day. The latest information available shows there have been a total of 65 cancellations at MCO, 31 arrivals and 34 departures, as of 4:15 p.m.

Passengers affected by the cancellations are advised to contact their airlines directly for additional flight information.

Currently, MCO’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains activated at a Level 2 status, which calls for actively monitoring the storm and weather forecasts from the National Weather Service in Melbourne.

In anticipation of the storm, MCO had lowered water levels in area ponds and lakes, removed portable signage that could be moved by the winds, reviewed emergency plans, and ensured that all emergency generators were working properly.

No additional updates are planned unless conditions warrant.

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 more than 57 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 down Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region

Orlando, Fla. – While Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports are both open and operational, crews with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority are undertaking storm preps in advance of Hurricane Helene out of an abundance of caution.

These storm preps include securing outdoor equipment, lowering water levels in area ponds, removing A-frame signage near certain parking areas, ensuring emergency generators are working properly, and pruning trees to minimize potential debris.

Team members have also held briefings with airlines and other airport partners as well as activated the Aviation Authority’s hurricane emergency response plan.

Safety is a priority and preservation of facilities are important during storm events.

The Aviation Authority will take protective measures throughout the coming hours and will continue to monitor the storm through the National Weather Service in Melbourne and coordinate airport activities accordingly.

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 more than 57 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 down Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region

ORLANDO, Fla. – Travel demand is driving another robust budget for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA). On Wednesday, the GOAA board unanimously approved airport operating budgets that will fund continuing efforts to maintain optimal levels of customer service as the Aviation Authority maintains financial responsibility.

The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year Budget for Orlando International Airport (MCO) is $941,278,000, which is a nearly $110 million increase in revenue over last year’s budget. It includes no local tax dollars and derives the greatest portion of funding from airline charges, airport user fees, and parking & ground transportation.

Key elements of the MCO budget include: • An increase in Cost Per Enplaned passenger (CPE) from $9.28 to $11.92 for participating airlines • An $8.92M increase in Parking & Ground Transportation revenue • An increase of $46.8M in Terminal Premises rentals • A $3.1M increase in Rental Car revenue • A $10.4M increase in Concessions revenue

The budget for Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) is $10,692,000, an increase of $4,984,000 more than last year. ORL’s proposed budget reflects increases in aviation-related revenue and capital outlay expenses.

NEW FIRE CHIEF APPROVED Following the retirement announcement of the Aviation Authority’s first female Fire Chief Brenda Bishop, the Board approved her replacement. Deputy Fire Chief Timothy Mentzer will take over as Chief of MCO’s Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) department.

He joined the Aviation Authority as a Firefighter/Paramedic in January of 2004 and was promoted to Deputy Fire Chief in May 2023. He will assume his new duties when Bishop officially retires on October 4, 2024.

ARFF provides fire suppression, aircraft, and structural, emergency medical services (EMS) with transport capabilities and special team operations. The department is staffed by 107 total positions.

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 more than 57 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. – Citing family health concerns, the Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Kevin J. Thibault tendered his resignation to the GOAA board effective January 31, 2025.

In his letter to GOAA Board Chairman Tim Weisheyer, Mr. Thibault said:

“Thank you and Immediate Past Chairman Mr. Carson Good for the support you’ve given me over the past two years. I wish you and all the GOAA team all the best.” Mr. Thibault also referred to how he enjoyed his role as CEO. “As a transportation professional, to serve as a state transportation secretary and now as the Chief Executive Officer of the 7th largest airport in the United States has truly been the epitome of a professional career well served. When you look back at what has been accomplished in the past two years, I am confident that this airport is positioned for continued greatness in the years to come.”

The announcement comes after two-plus years at the helm of the Aviation Authority, which has seen dramatic improvements and growth at both Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports. During this time, passenger traffic went from 50 million passengers to more than 58 million at MCO and cemented its position as the busiest airport in the state of Florida. It also ranks the 7th busiest in the United States and the 18th busiest in the world.

“Kevin has been an exceptional leader and a tireless advocate for our airport and our community,” said Tim Weisheyer, GOAA Board Chairman. “His tenure has been defined by a tireless dedication to excellence and will leave an indelible mark on the Aviation Authority. The Board fully respects his decision to put family first, but we will miss his vision and commitment that enhanced our reputation as a world-class global gateway.”

Prior to joining the Aviation Authority, Mr. Thibault served as Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), where he was responsible for coordinating the planning and development of a safe, viable, and balanced transportation system, including multimodal facilities. Throughout his 19 years with FDOT, Mr. Thibault consistently focused on the importance of partnerships to deliver the transportation needs of the state.

The crowning accomplishments of his GOAA tenure were the successful openings of the $2.8 billion Terminal C, which stands adjacent to the Brightline train station, along with the development and implementation of a new Strategic Plan, renewing the mission, vision and values of the Aviation Authority as well as identifying new strategic priorities aligned with four pillars: People, Connection, Community and Innovation.

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 more than 57 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 down Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

Orlando, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a special art exhibit and other cultural events that will be happening throughout the airport.

Kicking off the celebration, Gallery MCO will feature a distinguished collection of artworks from the Central Florida community that highlight the richness and diversity of the Hispanic culture. The exhibit, which runs through the end of Hispanic Heritage Month, features more than 20 pieces by Hispanic artists from various countries, including Peru, Venezuela, and Cuba.

This showcase is presented in partnership with the Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County with support from Duke Energy as part of their "Pioneers of Change" initiative.

In addition to the art exhibit, GOAA will host several events including musical performances by the Don Soledad Trio on September 13 and Mariachi Oro Internacional on September 20. Travelers can enjoy a Dominoes game area on September 27, and GOAA employees will take part in their own celebrations with a karaoke event on October 4.

A special feature on our Hispanic employees will be revealed on the Aviation Authority’s social media channels on Oct. 11, showcasing unique perspectives and stories.

GOAA is excited to bring this celebration of Hispanic culture to travelers and staff, reinforcing its commitment to honoring the diverse backgrounds that make up the vibrant Orlando community.

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 more than 57 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 down Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.