Orlando International Airport (OIA), Florida’s # 1 airport is making a name for itself in a variety of ways, from recently serving as a transportation hub to help connect thousands of Haitian-American evacuees who arrived at Sanford International, to solidifying its position as the airport with the most non-stop domestic service.
Recently, more than 2,300 Haitian earthquake victims are safe and are benefiting from a collaborative community effort in Central Florida. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), the American Red Cross, the Florida Department of Children and Families, Lynx, Orlando Sanford International Airport and dozens of volunteers teamed together to help following arrival at Sanford International by military and commercial aircraft. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is serving as a transportation hub to help connect weary Haitian-Americans with continuing air, bus or train service to destinations across the country. Despite the traumatic circumstances, the earthquake victims remain calm and courteous as they prepare for the next stage of their journey at MCO.
“B” TERMINAL RENTAL CAR QUICK-TURNAROUND AREA OPENS:
While the car renting public may never set foot in the new rental car quick-turnaround area (QTA), they will notice an immediate difference in enhanced customer service. The 41 million dollar construction project designed to bring 96 percent of rental car activities back onto airport property is more than half way complete. The “A” terminal portion, the larger of the two, is still under construction while the “B” side began limited operations before the holidays. The project expands the QTA where rental car companies will be capable of storing hundreds of vehicles while also processing dozens of cars simultaneously including interior cleaning, washing, fueling and light maintenance.
ALLEGIANT AIR LANDS AT OIA:
Beginning February 1st Allegiant Air begins service to ten destinations from Orlando International Airport. The additions help to solidify Orlando International as the airport in Florida with the most non-stop domestic service reaching 88 markets. Allegiant will be located in the “A” terminal with service originating from airside one. Allegiant’s initial schedule is for 29 flights per week from MCO.
RECYCLING PROGRAM TAKES ROOT AT MCO:
The second phase of a program to bring expanded recycling to Orlando International Airport is underway. In phase one the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority employee office annex building was targeted for a pilot program. Now, in phase two, the public will notice new, teak-wood recycling containers around the main terminal building. The clearly marked containers will allow passengers to recycle plastic, paper and aluminum products. Recycling bins are located next to the security checkpoint areas, adjacent to the moving sidewalks and on the curbs of the second and third levels of the terminal building. Expecting the program to be a success, future phases are already being considered.
The latest 2009 Zagat Airline Survey recently named Orlando International Airport as one of the top five airports nationwide for overall airport quality.
Source: GOAA
