According to estimates released by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), this Saturday, December 18th will be the busiest travel day of a holiday season that is expected to rival pre-pandemic figures.
A total of 156,925 people are expected to pass through Orlando International Airport (MCO) this Saturday, nearly 4,000 more people than are expected on New Years Day, which will be the second-busiest day of the 19-day holiday period that kicks off tomorrow.
According to the estimates released today, the 2021 holiday season will fall just 3% shy of 2019 figures.
GOAA released the following tips for travel during the holiday period:
- Arrive at least 3-hours before your flight to allow for added parking, ticketing and security screening times.
- Parking could be a challenge, consider being dropped off and picked up on the curb.
- Be prepared for extended waiting periods at any stage along your journey.
- Wear your mask in the terminal and on the plane at all times.
- Pack your patience.
- DO NOT PACK A WEAPON.
- Do not wrap presents going through security. They may be subject to inspection.
- After going through screening, do not forget to retrieve your personal items. Every holiday season thousands of watches and other items are left at TSA checkpoints.
- Consider signing up for the complementary CLEAR checkpoint reservation pilot program which allows you to select your screening time to avoid possible lines at the security checkpoints
MCO has taken several steps to assist with holiday travel such as updated digital signage, gold-vested employees staffed to assist with questions, free COVID-19 vaccination clinic, COVID-19 testing (for a fee), PPE vending machines throughout the airport.
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