Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) will suspend all commercial passenger and private operations on Wednesday morning, October 9, 2024, in preparation for Hurricane Milton, which is expected to bring significant impacts to central Florida.
This announcement follows a similar move by Tampa International Airport (TPA), which has already closed to all commercial and cargo operations as of Tuesday morning. Tampa is expected to experience more direct impacts from Hurricane Milton, including life-threatening storm surge and high winds.
Orlando Airport Operations Suspended
Starting Wednesday morning, both MCO and ORL will cease all regular flight operations. While the airport will not fully close, it will be available only for emergency, aid, and relief flights until it is safe to resume normal operations. A damage assessment will be conducted after the storm passes to determine when commercial flights can safely restart.
Travelers who are scheduled to fly in or out of MCO during this time should contact their airlines for the latest updates on cancellations, delays, and rebooking options. Many airlines are already adjusting their schedules, and flight disruptions are expected throughout the week as Hurricane Milton moves closer to Florida.
MCO Not an Authorized Shelter
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has also reminded the public that MCO is not an authorized shelter during the hurricane. The airport does not have the capacity to house local residents during severe weather events, and emergency management officials have designated specific shelters throughout the area. Those in need of shelter should follow local emergency instructions for safe locations to ride out the storm.
Safety and Reopening Plans
The airport will reopen based on the results of the damage assessment conducted after the storm, as well as the condition of roadways leading to the airport. GOAA will work closely with airlines and other partners, such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), to ensure the airport is fully operational as soon as possible.
Hurricane Milton’s Impact on Central Florida and Tampa
Hurricane Milton is expected to bring Category 1-2 winds to central Florida, with peak winds forecasted to arrive on Wednesday. In addition to strong winds, the region could experience heavy rainfall, leading to potential flooding in some areas. Travelers should monitor local weather forecasts and plan for possible road closures and flooded streets near MCO and other locations.
Meanwhile, Tampa International Airport (TPA) has already suspended all operations and closed its parking garages to the public. TPA is also only open to emergency flights at this time and will remain closed until officials can assess the damage after the storm. Passengers traveling through Tampa should check with their airlines and prepare for significant delays.
What Travelers Should Do
- Check Flight Status: Contact your airline for the latest flight information. Many flights in and out of MCO and TPA are being canceled or rescheduled, so it’s essential to stay updated.
- Monitor Local Shelters: Remember, MCO is not a shelter, so those in need should seek shelter at locations designated by local authorities.
- Plan Ahead: Be prepared for extended delays at both Orlando and Tampa airports as post-storm assessments are conducted to determine when regular operations can safely resume.
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