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2d ago

Orlando Airport Projects 3.1 Million Holiday Travelers, Peak Expected Jan. 3–4

AAA forecasts a record U.S. holiday crush, with Orlando leading demand and construction near MCO’s Gates 100–129 flagged as a key pinch point.

Travelers wait in line at a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in Dallas, Texas, US, on Monday, Oct. 20, 2025. US air travel is starting to show signs of strain as lawmakers remain divided over a government shutdown that has stretched into its third week. Photographer: Shelby Tauber/Bloomberg via Getty Images
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Overview

  • Orlando International Airport expects nearly 3.1 million passengers Dec. 19–Jan. 5, up about 2.6% from last year, with Jan. 3 (≈196,212) and Jan. 4 (≈195,960) projected as the busiest days.
  • MCO advises arriving three hours before departure and being at the gate one hour ahead, and it urges use of the MCO app, reserved parking and the free MCO Reserve security booking tool.
  • The Gate Link Replacement affecting Gates 100–129 (Southwest and Avelo) may add under 15 minutes to trips, with shuttle buses replacing trams overnight during some hours.
  • AAA estimates roughly 122.4 million Americans will travel for the holidays and lists Orlando as the top destination, with elevated Disney crowds and sold‑out events reinforcing demand.
  • Other hubs report heavy volumes and early strains as DFW plans for nearly 5 million travelers during its holiday window, JFK issued ground delays for wind, and South Florida saw weather‑related flight delays.