Orlando International Airport (MCO) will celebrate 30 years of providing a world class travel experience next month.
Officially dedicated on October 2, 1981, with the completion of a new $300 million terminal facility, MCO has experienced significant and steady growth in responding to the strong economic development of the region in both visitor and business traffic.
Whereas in 1981, MCO received just over 6 million passengers, by 2011, this number had grown to 35.6 million. Over the course of three decades, the airport has also doubled in size, expanding its acreage from 7,000 to 14,000, while increasing the number of gates from 48 to 96.
“The regions diverse economy helped spark the need for a world-class airport capable of growing and delivering a quality travel experience”, said Phil Brown, Executive Director of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.
To celebrate its Pearl Anniversary, Orlando International Airport will host a Community Day on Sunday, Oct. 2, 2011 from 2-5 p.m. Visitors will be treated to live entertainment, a sidewalk sale by airport merchants, giveaways from participating airlines and free parking.
Orlando International Airport employs over 18,000 workers on airport property.
