12/14/2007 - It's A Green Holiday Travel Season at Orlando International Airport

ORLANDO, FL. – Green is the “in” color this holiday season as Orlando International Airport (MCO) embraces its design philosophy and incorporates more green technology into various aspects of airport operations. From near-zero emission producing hydrogen powered shuttle buses to the introduction of new energy efficient LED holiday lights, MCO is more eco-aware this holiday season than ever before.

During the 2007 December holiday travel season, passengers at Florida’s busiest airport may be able to ride the latest in alternative energy technology, four hydrogen powered buses are in operation to move travelers to and from remote satellite parking lots to the main terminal building. These buses are part of a test program in conjunction with the State of Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Chevron, Progress Energy, Ford Motor Company and the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA). The buses operate during daylight hours only.

MCO is also using bio-diesel to power approximately 600 pieces of diesel powered equipment on airport property. From lawnmowers and hedge clippers to tugs and trucks, bio-diesel is reducing the amount of traditional petroleum based fuel consumption by 20 percent.

Working in conjunction with those technologies, hybrid vehicles are also being used successfully in various airport applications. From mail delivery to airport operations and security, MCO continues to look for ways to be both environmentally and economically responsible,

QUICK TIPS FOR HOLIDAY TRAVEL AT ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL

Departures:

• Do not wrap gifts as they will be opened and are subject to search.
• Pack light. Check as much baggage as possible.
• Carry valuables with you in your carry-on luggage.
• Don’t forget your government issued photo identification. Keep it readily available.
• Don’t forget your passport. All international travel requires a passport for exit and entry into the United States.
• Remember the 3-1-1 rule. THREE ounce or less sized containers of liquid or gel that will fit inside ONE quart-sized clear plastic zip-top-bag. And only ONE bag per person.
• Place identification tags on the outside and inside of all luggage.
• TAKE SECURITY SERIOUSLY! TO NOT MAKE JOKES OR LIGHT HEARTED COMMENTS WHILE BEING PROCESSED FOR A FLIGHT.

Arrivals: Tips for a stressless “meet and greet”

• If needed, ask for assistance from the airline for those seniors or minors with special needs traveling alone.
• Establish an exact meeting location. i.e. Near the coffee shop, in the food court, at the airlines baggage claim in the “A” terminal on level 2. (be as specific as possible)
• Wait 30 minutes after the plane’s scheduled arrival for curbside passenger pick-up.
• Use the cell phone lot or convenient Express Pickup while waiting for arrivals.
• Exchange cell phone and contact numbers.
• PRACTICE PATIENCE AND ENJOY YOUR HOLIDAY SEASON.

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For more information, contact Carolyn Fennell at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055.

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