Orlando International Airport (MCO), Florida’s gateway to Disney World and a top travel destination, is embarking on a massive $652 million project to improve its baggage handling system. The initiative is part of a broader Capital Improvement Plan designed to support the airport’s rapid growth and enhance passenger experience.
Why the Baggage System Overhaul Is Needed
Orlando International Airport served 60 million passengers in 2024, a significant increase from 50 million in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. With passenger numbers growing and a diverse mix of luggage types—such as golf bags, baby strollers, and car seats—the airport’s current baggage system is struggling to keep up.
The existing infrastructure, installed over 20 years ago after the 9/11 attacks, is outdated and no longer efficient for the volume of passengers MCO handles today. Kevin Thibeault, CEO of Orlando International Airport, emphasized that the $650 million investment aims to make baggage handling “seamless,” improving efficiency for both passengers and airlines.
What the Baggage System Overhaul Includes
The baggage system upgrade will include several key improvements designed to speed up luggage processing and improve passenger convenience:
1. Revamping Terminals A & B
- The baggage handling system in Terminals A and B will be upgraded alongside a multi-million-dollar renovation of terminal interiors, which includes new flooring, wall finishes, improved lighting, and upgraded restrooms.
- Construction for the baggage system improvements is set to begin this year, with major milestones expected by 2027.
2. Express Service Providers (ESPs)
- In the short term, MCO will work with Express Service Providers (ESPs) to enhance baggage movement efficiency. ESPs will help redirect inbound bags to off-airport hotels and resorts while managing outbound bags through a Remote Screening Facility.
- A new ESP provider will be selected by summer 2025 to help streamline baggage flow and ease congestion within the terminals.
3. TSA Screening Upgrades
- The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will upgrade its physical screening equipment, IT systems, and baggage encoders within MCO’s baggage handling pods.
- The upgrades will be completed incrementally before the full implementation of the new baggage handling system.
Additional Improvements at MCO
MCO’s Capital Improvement Plan also includes several other key projects designed to improve the overall travel experience:
1. Parking Guidance System
- A $13.5 million Parking Guidance System is being installed in all parking garages and will be fully operational by 2027. This system will help travelers find available parking spaces faster, reducing delays and congestion.
2. Consolidated Rental Car Facility
- A new facility will consolidate rental car operations to reduce traffic on terminal roads, free up space for additional public parking, and improve navigation within the airport.
Expanding Flight Connectivity
As MCO continues to upgrade its infrastructure, the airport is also expanding its flight network. In 2024, MCO welcomed new airlines and routes, including:
- Flair Airlines: Service to four Canadian destinations
- Iberojet: Seasonal service to Madrid, Spain
- Viva Aerobus: Service to Merida and Monterrey, Mexico
Looking ahead, additional services are on the way:
- Discover Airlines will begin flights to Munich (MUC) on March 3rd, 2025.
- Air France will resume flights to Paris Charles De Gaulle (CDG) on May 21st, 2025.
Domestically, MCO is adding routes with major carriers like JetBlue, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta, and Southwest Airlines.
Orlando International Airport’s $650 million baggage system overhaul is a major investment in improving passenger convenience and operational efficiency. Combined with terminal renovations, parking upgrades, and expanded flight connectivity, the project will support the airport’s growth as it handles increasing passenger demand. By 2027, MCO is set to be a more efficient and traveler-friendly hub, meeting the needs of both domestic and international visitors.
