Orlando International Airport (MCO) is preparing for one of the busiest travel seasons in its history, with a staggering 7.4 million passengers expected to pass through its terminals during spring break. As the gateway to some of the world’s most popular vacation destinations—like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort—MCO is bracing for record-breaking crowds and has identified the specific days when travel will hit its peak.
Spring break travel at MCO runs from February 22 through April 6, a 44-day period that will see an influx of visitors from around the globe. But certain dates are projected to be especially busy:
The Busiest Travel Days at MCO
- Saturday, March 15 – 197,761 passengers
- Sunday, March 16 – 195,959 passengers
- Saturday, March 29 – 193,908 passengers
- Saturday, March 22 – 193,135 passengers
- Saturday, March 8 – 192,853 passengers
These numbers are unprecedented, and MCO is preparing for a surge that could see longer security lines, crowded terminals, and increased demand for parking and transportation.
Fly MCO took to social media to share the news, “BUSYYYYYYYY and more than 7.4 million travelers will be passing through MCO during this 44-day travel period. Top busiest days:
1) Saturday, March 15 197,761
2) Sunday, March 16 195,959
3) Saturday, March 29 193,908
4) Saturday, March 22 193,135
5) Saturday, March 8 192,853
To learn more about how to properly Pack, Park, Plane to have smooth travels, visit today’s story!
Check out this bag etiquette tips video to keep your packing game strong. Whether it’s a personal item, carry-on, checked bag, or oversized luggage, these fly tips will help you keep Spring Break travels smooth!”
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Why Orlando Will Be Packed
Orlando’s perfect mix of warm weather, beautiful beaches, and world-class theme parks makes it a top-tier spring break destination. With Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and SeaWorld Orlando all offering special spring events and extended hours, the city is set to draw record-breaking crowds.
For Disney fans, the high demand could make it harder to secure Lightning Lane Multi Passes. Meanwhile, Universal’s top attractions like The Incredible Hulk Coaster and Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure are expected to see some of their longest wait times of the year.
Travelers visiting during these peak periods should plan ahead—reserving theme park tickets, dining experiences, and transportation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
How to Make Your MCO Experience Smoother
To help ease the stress of traveling during this chaotic time, MCO recommends following the “3 P’s”:
- Pack Smart: Travel light and ensure your luggage meets TSA guidelines to avoid delays.
- Park Efficiently: Use MCO’s parking reservation system to secure a spot ahead of time—parking lots will fill up quickly.
- Plane Time: Arrive at least three hours before domestic flights and four hours for international departures to navigate security and avoid missing your flight.
Additional tools like the MCO Reserve Program, which allows passengers to schedule TSA screening times, and the MCO Mobile App for real-time flight and terminal information, can make your airport experience much more manageable.
Following a Major Airport Disruption
This spring break surge comes just weeks after a dramatic air traffic halt at MCO, caused by an unexpected event far beyond the airport’s control—a SpaceX rocket failure.
On a Thursday evening, a SpaceX Starship rocket launched from Boca Chica, Texas, only to disintegrate mid-air, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to issue a ground stop at MCO and several other Florida airports due to potential space debris.
The ground stop, announced at 7:30 p.m., lasted about 15 minutes at MCO, but the impact stretched far beyond that. Airports like Miami International Airport (MIA) saw flight departures delayed by more than 30 minutes well into the night. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Palm Beach International Airport also experienced disruptions.
The SpaceX rocket suffered what’s known as a “rapid unscheduled disassembly” after losing several of its engines during ascent, leading to a total loss of control and communication. The FAA has since mandated an investigation into the mishap.
Though no injuries or environmental damage were reported, the brief pause in flight operations created a ripple effect of delays, showing just how vulnerable Florida’s air traffic can be to unexpected incidents.
Get Ready for Record-Breaking Crowds
With Orlando International Airport expecting some of the busiest days in its history and theme parks preparing for packed crowds, visitors heading to Central Florida this spring should plan ahead. Whether you’re off to Disney, Universal, or the beaches, early reservations, smart packing, and a flexible attitude will make your trip far smoother.
Orlando is gearing up for an unforgettable—and incredibly busy—spring break season. Make sure you’re ready for the ride!
