Following a multi-day closure due to Hurricane Milton, Orlando International Airport (MCO) announced it will reopen and resume departing commercial flights on Friday, October 11. The airport says they will receive some domestic arrivals tonight. The airport ceased operations at 8 a.m. on Wednesday as the powerful Category 4 storm approached Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Here is the full statement from Orlando International Airport:
Although we’ll receive a few domestic arrivals this evening, no departures or international flights will occur. Please don’t come to the airport for a departing flight tonight. Departures begin tomorrow. Check with your airline for updates.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Disney World
The reopening of Orlando’s primary airport is welcome news for Walt Disney World, which also shut down for a day-and-a-half due to Hurricane Milton. MCO is a major hub for tourists visiting Disney’s theme parks and resorts in the Orlando area.
On Wednesday afternoon, Disney closed its four theme parks and Disney Springs in phases as hurricane conditions intensified. The parks remained fully closed on Thursday but are expected to reopen on Friday.
Gradual Ramp-Up of Flights
MCO officials cautioned that flight schedules will not immediately return to normal levels on Friday. Airlines will gradually add more flights over the coming days as airport operations ramp back up.
Passengers are advised to check with their airline for the latest flight status before heading to the airport. Residual flight delays and cancellations are still possible as airlines reposition aircraft and crews back to Orlando.
Airport Damage Minimal
According to initial assessments, Orlando International Airport thankfully sustained minor damage from Hurricane Milton’s wind and rain. Crews are working to inspect facilities, remove debris, and prepare the airport to reopen.
As Florida’s busiest airport resumes operations, it marks a significant step in Central Florida’s recovery from the impacts of the hurricane. MCO’s reopening will allow thousands of stranded tourists to return home and bring a much-needed influx of visitors back to the region’s popular attractions like Walt Disney World.
Stay tuned to MainGatePass.com for continued updates. Always refer to local authorities for guidance on storm preparations and evacuations.
