
During the peak season of spring break, travelers passing through Orlando International Airport (MCO) have been experiencing significant disruptions in their travel plans, with a surge in delays and cancellations affecting a multitude of flights to and from the Sunshine State. This sudden increase in travel-related setbacks has put a strain on the usual smooth flow of operations at the airport, impacting the flight schedules of various airlines serving the Orlando airport, such as American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and United Airlines.
Related: MCO Takes a Cheap Shot At Popular Walt Disney World Attraction
Florida Airports Rank High for Flight Delays and Cancelations
There is no denying that Florida is one of the country’s most popular destinations for spring break travels. Due to the warm weather, beaches, and theme park destinations, many families choose this state for their much-anticipated vacation days. Unfortunately, a slew of delays due to weather and crowds made it impossible for eager Walt Disney World Resort tourists. In fact, Florida airports were names some of the worst in the country for delays and cancellations this year. Accorrding to one source…
1st Worst: Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – 34.87% of flights delayed, 4.63% canceled
3rd Worst: Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Fla. – 31.06% of flights delayed, 1.52% canceled
6th Worst: Miami International Airport in Miami, Fla. – 29.22% of flights delayed, 0.88% canceled
Preparing for the Worst
As passengers flock to Central Florida for vacations, business trips, or visits to renowned attractions like Walt Disney World or Universal Studios, the challenges posed by these flight interruptions have become more pronounced. Weather conditions, air traffic congestion, and scheduling issues have all contributed to the rise in flight delays, prompting the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority to work diligently to mitigate the impact on passengers. From longer wait times at security checkpoints to extended ground delays, the effects of these disruptions have been felt throughout the airport, requiring a coordinated effort between airlines and airport authorities to manage the situation effectively.
As we all navigate through the uncertainty of flight delays and cancellations, staying informed about their flight status through airline notifications, flight trackers, and airport announcements has become crucial for minimizing inconvenience and ensuring a smoother travel experience. Despite the challenges posed by these disruptions, proactive measures such as enrolling in TSA PreCheck, exploring alternate transportation options, or seeking compensation for eligible delays can help passengers better cope with unexpected changes to their travel itineraries during this bustling season at Orlando International Airport.