May 21, 2026

Orlando International Airport Preparing for Busy Memorial Day Weekend

ORLANDO, Fla. — The unofficial start of the summer travel season begins today with strong holiday passenger traffic expected at Florida’s busiest airport, Orlando International Airport (MCO).

While early forecasts are about 4 percent below 2025’s record-setting Memorial Day levels, nearly 902,000 travelers are still expected to move through MCO during the holiday travel period.

This year’s forecast reflects evolving airline operations, including schedule adjustments designed to maximize seating efficiency and changes in service from individual carriers. Even with those shifts, MCO continues to see robust holiday demand as travelers head out for the long weekend.

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During the six-day travel period, Monday, May 25th, is expected to be the busiest day, with approximately 165,000 passengers.

“Memorial Day marks the beginning of one of the most exciting times of year for Orlando, and we are ready to welcome the hundreds of thousands of travelers who are choosing MCO as their gateway to Central Florida,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

Airport officials are encouraging passengers to plan ahead for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience by being at the security checkpoint 2 hours before a flight and arrive at the gate 1 hour before departure.

With increased travel expected, parking facilities may fill during peak periods. Passengers are encouraged to plan parking in advance. Reserved Parking remains a convenient option, along with parking at the surface lots (Atlantis, Endeavour, and Discovery) and economy lots (North Park, South Park, and West Park Place).

Passengers can reserve parking ahead of time through Reserved Parking at MCO or use the Orlando MCO mobile app before arriving at the airport.

Helpful Memorial Day Travel Tips at MCO:

  • Allow extra time and be patient. Busy holiday crowds may mean longer lines, and a little extra flexibility can help make your trip easier.

  • Stay connected for the latest parking updates. Download the Orlando MCO app or visit our website at FlyMCO for real-time parking and security wait times. You can also follow us on Twitter @MCO or Facebook @FlyMCO.

  • Time your passenger pickups for a smoother curbside experience. Ask your party to call when they are ready to be picked up from the curb, and use the Travel Plaza or the North and South free cell phone waiting areas while you wait. For everyone’s safety, please do not park on the shoulders of airport roadways.

  • Check your bags for prohibited items before arriving. Firearms and other weapons are not permitted through security checkpoints.

  • Please take security procedures seriously. Comments made during screening can lead to delays, so travelers should remain attentive and professional throughout the process.

  • Keep your belongings with you at all times and do not accept items from strangers for transport.

  • Add identification tags to the outside and inside of checked and carry-on luggage to help keep your bags easy to identify.

  • If traveling with a pet or comfort animal, bring a leash. Pets will need to remain on a leash while carriers are screened by TSA.

For additional guidance, travelers are encouraged to review tips from the Transportation Security Administration before heading to the airport.

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.