Planning to travel to Walt Disney World this Thanksgiving? Get ready for some busy times at Orlando International Airport (MCO). More than 1.9 million passengers are expected to pass through MCO from November 22 to December 3, 2024. While numbers are slightly down from 2023's record high, it's still a peak season for holiday travel.
2024 Passenger Traffic Outlook
Orlando International Airport forecasts a total of 1.92 million passengers during the 12-day Thanksgiving travel period.
The busiest day will be Sunday, December 1, with an estimated 181,688 travelers. Historically, this is the day when many vacationers head home after the Thanksgiving weekend.
Compared to 2023, passenger numbers are down slightly. Last year, Thanksgiving travel set a record at MCO, which saw nearly 1 million departures alone. MCO says this slight decline is due to factors like reduced flight availability and ongoing aircraft delivery delays.
Estimated Busy Days
Based on MCO's projected numbers, expect heavy traffic on these key dates:
- Wednesday, November 27: Estimated 82,265 departures.
- Thursday, November 28: Estimated 47,330 departures.
- Sunday, December 1: Peak day with a combined 181,688 arrivals and departures.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Orlando International Airport is urging travelers to be well-prepared during the Thanksgiving rush. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
Follow the 3-2-1 Rule:
- 3 hours before flight: Arrive at the airport ticket counter.
- 2 hours before: Clear the security checkpoint.
- 1 hour before: Be at your departure gate.
Parking and Transportation:
- Parking will be tight: Expect high demand, even with garages and the Terminal Top lots. Surface lots Atlantis, Endeavour, and Discovery are available, but they're E-Pass/SunPass only. Consider reserving parking in advance via MCO's Reserved Parking program.
- If possible, use rideshare, taxis, or have someone drop you off to avoid parking hassles.
- Reserved Parking Program: Use the Orlando MCO mobile app to reserve a parking space ahead of time. Spaces are likely to fill up quickly, especially during peak travel days.
What to Expect This Year
Even though 2024 is forecasted to be slightly less busy than 2023, the airport is still anticipating substantial crowds. As a traveler to Walt Disney World, planning ahead will be key to navigating MCO without too much hassle. Airport staff, security, and vendors are well-prepared for the rush, but you can do your part by arriving early, being patient, and considering alternate transportation if possible.
Thanksgiving is always a busy time at Orlando International, and with the parks drawing visitors from all over, it's a good idea to keep these tips in mind for a more relaxed start to your holiday.
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