Walt Disney World has once again extended its waiver of cancellation and change fees due to Hurricane Milton. This change comes as travel disruptions into Florida continue to mount.
The updated policy now covers check-in dates from Thursday, October 10, through Wednesday, October 16. This extension gives guests more flexibility to adjust their plans in consideration of the significant disruption to travel into Florida. Orlando International Airport (MCO) will not reopen until Friday, October 11.
What’s Covered
The waiver applies to most room-only reservations and vacation packages. Guests can modify or cancel these bookings online without incurring fees. This includes the ability to change travel dates at no extra cost.
Exceptions and Special Cases
Some reservations require additional assistance:
- Packages with air transportation
- Bookings that include third-party services
- Reservations with travel protection
Guests with these types of bookings need to call Disney Central at (407) 934-7639 for help with modifications or cancellations.
Effects of Hurricane Milton
Hurricane Milton, which made landfall as a Category 3 storm near Siesta Key, Florida, has had significant impacts on the Orlando area. As the storm moved inland, it brought heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the threat of tornadoes to central Florida. Orlando faced the risk of flash flooding, with the National Weather Service warning of potential flooding in various parts of central Florida. The city experienced power outages, with over 3.3 million Florida residents losing electricity by Thursday afternoon.
While the Orlando area was spared from the worst of the storm surge that affected coastal regions, it still faced dangerous conditions, including downed trees, damaged infrastructure, and impassable roads. The Orlando International Airport (MCO) suspended commercial operations on Wednesday, October 9, in anticipation of the hurricane’s arrival, disrupting travel plans for many visitors and residents.
Walt Disney World’s Preparation and Response
As the storm approached, Disney closed several vulnerable accommodations, including Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground and the Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. The theme parks and Disney Springs were shut down on Wednesday afternoon and remained closed on Thursday. Disney’s response also included:
- Suspending Walt Disney World Transportation services
- Canceling outdoor events and shows, including Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party
- Providing refunds for prepaid experiences and extending expiration dates for partially used multi-day tickets
- Maintaining limited dining options for resort guests
- Offering surprise character appearances and complimentary movies in hotel rooms to entertain guests during the closure
Disney World announced plans to reopen its theme parks, Disney Springs, and other areas on Friday.
Stay tuned to MainGatePass.com for continued updates. Always refer to local authorities for guidance on storm preparations and evacuations.
