ORLANDO, FL.- Orlando International (MCO) is preparing for an increase in seasonal holiday travel. Nationwide estimates predict an increase of 2.9 percent in air travel this holiday travel period compared to last year. During the 16-day holiday travel season, MCO is expecting, based upon early bookings and airline information, to surpass national estimates with nearly 45 thousand additional passengers this
year over last, bringing the total number of travelers through MCO to 1.4 million during the holiday season.

2009 Christmas / New Year’s Statistics:

• Orlando International expects a 3.2 percent increase in travelers.
• The holiday travel period is 16 days long: Saturday December 19th – Sunday, January 3rd 2010.
• 1,452,704 total travelers are expected to move through Orlando International. That represents a net increase of 44,992 passengers compared to 2008.
• The busiest travel days and anticipated passenger counts are:

  Saturday, January 2, 2010 ------ 103,388
  Sunday, January 3, 2010 ------ 100,841
  Saturday, December 26, 2009 -- 98,214
  Sunday, December 27, 2009 --- 96,306
  Monday, December 28, 2009 --- 92,535

Holiday travel tips and reminders:

• Remember the 3-1-1 rule. THREE ounce or less sized containers of liquids or gel that will fit inside ONE quart-sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag and only ONE bag per person. Check the Transportation Security Administration website for specifics at www.TSA.gov.
• Plan for baggage fees. Some airlines are charging for the first and each subsequent piece of checked luggage. Fees will vary by carrier. Pack lightly as high passenger counts will create heavy luggage volumes.
• Do not wrap gifts as they can be opened and are subject to search.
• Parking is available in the “A” and “B” garages or terminal-top for 17 dollars per day or in the Blue Satellite lot for 10 dollars per day, all taxes included. Remember, no one parks you closer for less than Orlando International.
• Last minute holiday shopping is available throughout the airport. There are approximately 40 stores at Orlando International Airport ranging from chocolate, jewelry, electronics, cosmetics and pet supplies. Some stores also provide shipping services to your destination.
• Valuables such as cameras, jewelry and prescriptions should be packed in carry-on luggage.
• The holidays are a festive and happy time so keep it that way by TAKING SECURITY SERIOUSLY! DO NOT MAKE JOKES OR LIGHT-HEARTED COMMENTS WHILE BEING PROCESSED FOR A FLIGHT.

Main terminal Atrium at Orlando International Airport

PRACTICE PATIENCE AND HAVE A HAPPY 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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