Nov 13, 2025
GOAA Grateful for Federal Partners as Shutdown Ends
ORLANDO, Fla. – With the federal government shutdown ending, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) would like to thank all federal employees who continued their vital work at our airports throughout the shutdown and thank passengers for their patience during this time.
The Federal Aviation Administration’s Emergency Order to reduce flights is still in effect and can be found at the following link: https://www.faa.gov/newsroom/FAA-Emergency-Order-11-6-25.pdf.
Despite the shutdown, operations at Orlando International Airport (MCO) were minimally impacted because federal partners at MCO consistently came to work.
“We are deeply grateful for our partners at the Transportation Security Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection for their professionalism and commitment to come to work during the shutdown,” said GOAA CEO Lance Lyttle. “We are equally thankful to our passengers who were patient as we strived to maintain seamless airport operations.”
In response to the government shutdown, in which many federal employees did not receive paychecks, GOAA opened a food pantry. Since Wednesday, October 15, through Tuesday, November 11, the pantry received more than 1,300 visits by federal employees. Additionally, about 1,000 gift cards were donated, thanks to the generosity of the airport community, business partners, and the Central Florida community.
On Friday, GOAA is also planning to host an Appreciation Luncheon for federal employees to thank them for their dedication to keep travelers moving.
Passengers should be aware that air traffic may not immediately resume normal operations. Some delays and cancellations are still expected while the airlines ramp up operations and increase flights.
We encourage passengers to check with their airlines for the most recent information about their flights and to follow the 3-2-1 rule: Be at the ticket counters 3 hours before your flight; be at the TSA checkpoint 2 hours before your flight; and be at your gate 1 hour before the boarding time listed on your boarding pass.
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.
For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.