If you’ve got a Disney vacation coming up, your travel plans may be affected before you even set foot in the parks. OK, so most people try to get through the airport part of their vacation as quickly as possible because, duh, who wants to be stuck in an airport? But this announcement from the Orlando International Airport might result in some longer travel times, so be prepared.
Orlando International Airport
The Orlando airport has officially decided to replace its Gate Link vehicles, tracks, and electrical control equipment, which means a LONNNG construction period is on the way. Obviously, this will impact transportation around the airport for travelers, so let’s take a look at what to expect.
You know that little monorail-esque vehicle that takes you from one terminal to another at the Orlando Airport? You know, the one where Mayor Buddy Dyer makes his little speech? Well, those are about to be refurbished. Here’s a little fun fact for you: the Gate Link vehicles have transported travelers over 5 million miles (equivalent to approximately 200 times around the Earth). With the construction coming to the tracks, vehicles, and electrical room, the Orlando Airport warns that this will affect travel between Terminal A/B and Gates 70-99 and Gates 100-129.
MCO airport
Due to the size of the project, it will take place in phases. This is an essential upgrade to ensure future reliability and enhance the experience for all travellers. Each Gate Link vehicle will need to be taken out of service. The project will begin on December 3rd, 2025.
MCO Airport Security
So what does this mean for you? Well, these will be the affected gates during the following periods:
Gates 100-129
- December 2025 to December 2026
- This will impact the airlines Avelo and Southwest
Gates 70-99
- December 2026 to October 2027
- This will impact the airlines Air Canada, Air Transat, Bahamasair, BermudAir, Delta, Flair, Frontier, LATAM, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country, Viva, Volaris, and WestJet
Orlando International Airport
While this is happening, it may be necessary to take the Gate Link to the other Gate Area, and then you can be transported between Gate Areas by bus. This means you should be allowing yourself an extra 15–20 minutes when arriving or departing Orlando Airport from these gates. The good news is that there will be directional signage and information to help you out. The Orlando Airport warns, “Please allow additional time when arriving or departing MCO from these gates, and follow the directional signage, and information from our airport ambassadors.”
Southwest at MCO
If you’re traveling to Disney for the fall season, this won’t impact you. So all you Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party guests and EPCOT’s Food and Wine Festival goers won’t have anything to worry about! However, all you holiday travellers should be prepared, as construction starts in December.
Christmas decor in the Magic Kingdom 2024
Make sure you plan accordingly with this construction period going on at the Orlando Airport. We’ll be keeping an eye out for any more news regarding this process.
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Why on earth would they start this during the busy holiday season????? More bad decisions in the Orlando tourist area……
I still not sure if i need to buy my park tickets & then add lighting passes, or can I buy them both at the same time? We aren’t arriving unti Jan, but I’d like to get this all taken care of as soon as i can. Thanks
Hi Dan. You will not be able to book your Lightning Lanes until 7 days before your trip if you’re staying at a Walt Disney World Resort or 3 days in advance if you are staying off property so it won’t be possible to buy them both right now.
Mayor Buddy Dyer better still greet me when i arrive after the work is done! lol!