Orlando International Airport Is About To Get a MAJOR Upgrade
Getting around Orlando International Airport (MCO) will soon be a breeze thanks to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s $253 million Gate Link Replacement Project.
Kicking off on December 3, the new renovation project will replace MCO’s aging Gate Link system with state-of-the-art technology and new tram vehicles to create a smoother, faster, and more reliable trip from security checkpoints to the airside.
Photo: MCO
In total, the project will see the installation of four new Gate Link vehicles, which will connect Terminals A and B to Gates 70-129 on Airside 2 and Airside 4.
New Gate Link vehicles are coming. PHOTO: MCO
During the renovations, the transportation supporting infrastructure will also be upgraded, with improvements made to the running surfaces, operating systems, power distribution, vehicle controls, communication networks, and platform screen doors.
The Latest Gate Link Upgrade
Finally, the new vehicles are being manufactured by Mitsubishi. They will look similar to those installed during the 2017 Gate Link Replacement Project, which upgraded the system that transports passengers to Gates 1-59 in Airports 1 and 3.
Photo: Orlando Sentinel
“Orlando International Airport is proud to be the gateway that welcomes millions of visitors to Central Florida and connects our residents to destinations around the world,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO.
Photo: Jerry Driendl / Getty Images
“While this project requires some temporary adjustments, the long-term benefits will enhance safety and ensure our Gate Link system serves passengers reliably for decades to come.”
Operational Changes
As Lyttle notes, there will be some operational changes as the renovations begin.
Photo: Orlando International Airport
Because only one tram will remain in operation during the project, passengers may have to wait a little bit longer to board.
Additionally, MCO is warning that overnight travelers may need to use shuttle buses to get around the airport at times.
MCO
Finally, travelers using a rental car or ground transportation are encouraged to factor an additional 30 minutes into their pickup planning.
Work will continue through the fall of 2027.
“To help ensure a seamless journey for passengers during the project, MCO will have additional guest service ambassadors, clear wayfinding signage, and continuous customer support,” the airport explains.
Orlando International Airport. Photo: Fortune
“Throughout the project, we ask for passengers’ patience and understanding while we enhance the future travel experience.”
FEATURE IMAGE: Fortune
