Mar 10, 2026

Orlando International Airport in the Midst of the Busiest Period for Spring Break Travelers

ORLANDO, Fla. - Orlando International Airport (MCO) is in the midst of its Spring Break rush, a period that consistently brings some of the highest passenger volumes of the year. The airport, currently in the peak stretch of a 46-day travel window that ends April 7th, will see its busiest days between March 12th and March 16th.

“Central Florida enjoys a unique ranking as a favorite Spring Break destination because it is attractive to a wide range of audiences” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “We have popular theme parks, golfing, a growing food scene, sporting competitions, and other attractions, while also being blessed with beautiful weather that escapes other parts of the country at this time of year.”

During the Spring Break travel period, nearly 53,000 flights will operate into and out of MCO. The busiest day is projected to be March 15th with an estimated 212,000 travelers at MCO.

In total, more than 7.4 million passengers are expected, which is an 8 percent increase over 2025 – itself a record year.

Projected Peak Spring Break 2026 Passenger Counts

Spring-break-projection-counts-graphi-cart-2026-03-11

As always, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport three hours in advance of their flight and to be at the security checkpoint two hours before departure time. Travelers are also encouraged to practice the three P’s - Pack, Park, Plane:

Pack as lightly as possible.

Park in any available garage/lot or use Reserved Parking for a guaranteed spot.

Plane Don’t miss it! Give yourself plenty of time to get through security and to your plane.

Other tips:

  • MCO Reserve. Passengers can book a time slot to go through a TSA security checkpoint. Visit the FlyMCO website for reservations.

  • Cell Phone Lots. Instead of circling the airport, use the free North or South Cell Phone Lots to wait for your passenger. These convenient lots offer Wi-Fi and restrooms.

  • Pack Right. Not sure what bag to take or what to pack? Our video offers some high-flying tips to help you decide.

  • MCO App. Your personal MCO Assistant is close at hand for the best in-terminal navigation experience and more.

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.