Orlando International Airport (MCO) is ready for the busy holiday travel season with increased staffing levels, festive decorations and live entertainment. More than 1.7 million passengers are expected during this year’s peak holiday travel season. The numbers reflected in the 16-day travel period are based upon early bookings and airline information which reflects a 4 percent increase over last year’s seasonal numbers. The busiest travel day is anticipated to be Sunday, December 26th when 120,765 passengers are expected, followed by Thursday, December 23rd and Saturday, December 18th when nearly 117 thousand travelers are planning to fly in and out of MCO.
Adding to the holiday spirit, travelers are met with banners spreading messages of “Joy, Peace and Seasons Greetings” along both “A” and “B” third level departure curbs. Once inside the main terminal building, ready to catch their eyes, are giant wreaths in traditional holiday colors highlighted by contemporary metallic ribbons and ornaments. Traversing from the third to second level by means of escalators, travelers can also catch a glimpse of traditional holiday scenes depicting Christmas, Kwanzaa and Chanukah.
Centered majestically, where the fountain normally delights passengers in the Airport Hyatt Hotel atrium, is the airport’s main holiday tree. The tree, standing four stories tall, uses 50 thousand energy efficient LED lights and is traditionally a meeting and photo opportunity point for arriving and departing family and friends at MCO.
Maintaining the airport’s commitment to showcasing the arts, during peak travel times, local cultural performances are scheduled to entertain and help relax stressed holiday travelers. Beginning December 13th and running through the 22nd, airport visitors will be treated to performances by the Orlando Ballet, Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra ensembles, Jones High School Chorus, Latin American guitarist Ravelli and the Messiah Choral Society and Bach Festival Choir.
To ensure that your holiday travel experience is as pleasant as possible, see some travel tips and reminders below.
HOLIDAY TRAVEL TIPS/ REMINDERS
- If possible, print boarding passes prior to arrival at the airport, you can do so beginning 24 hours before your flight.
- Arrive at the airport at least two hours in advance for domestic and three hours in advance for international flights.
- Keep your passport and/or other government-issued picture identification handy as it will be needed at various stages of the check-in and screening process.
- Pack lightly. Some airlines have checked baggage fees based upon weight of luggage.
- Contact your airline prior to arrival at the airport to clarify luggage restrictions and possible fees since charges vary depending on carrier.
- Place identification tags on the outside and inside of both checked and carry-on baggage.
- Dress comfortably, knowing that enhanced security measures are in effect for screening through the security checkpoints. Place all bulky jewelry, belts, cell phones and items from pockets in your carry-on luggage.
- Remember the 3-1-1 carry-on packing rules to expedite your screening process. THREE ounces or less of liquids or gels carried in ONE clear plastic quart-sized, zip-top bag with only ONE bag allowed per passenger.
- Do not wrap gifts, as they will be subject to search.
- Think of kid’s needs. When traveling with children, pack them a small backpack filled with crayons, coloring books, small toys and snacks.
TAKE SECURITY SERIOUSLY! DO NOT MAKE JOKES OR LIGHT HEARTED COMMENTS WHILE BEING PROCESSED FOR A FLIGHT.
