Orlando International Airport (MCO) is suspending operations due to Hurricane Milton

Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) will suspend all commercial passenger and private operations on Wednesday morning, October 9, 2024, in preparation for Hurricane Milton, which is expected to have a significant impact on Central Florida .

This announcement follows a similar move by Tampa International Airport (TPA), which has already been closed to all commercial and cargo operations since Tuesday morning. Tampa is expected to experience additional direct impacts from Hurricane Milton, including life-threatening storm surges and strong winds.

Orlando Airport operations suspended

Starting Wednesday morning, both MCO and ORL will suspend all regular flight operations. While the airport will not be closed completely, it will only be available for emergency, relief and relief flights until normal operations can safely resume. After the storm passes, a damage assessment will be conducted to determine when commercial flights can safely resume.

Travelers arriving or departing the MCO during this period should contact their airline for up-to-date information on cancellations, delays and rebooking options. Many airlines are already adjusting their flight schedules and flight disruptions are expected throughout the week as Hurricane Milton moves ever closer to Florida.

MCO is not an authorized animal shelter

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) also reminded the public that MCO is not an approved shelter in place during the hurricane. The airport does not have the capacity to shelter residents during severe weather, and emergency management officials have set up special emergency shelters throughout the area. Anyone needing shelter should follow local emergency instructions for safe locations to weather the storm.

Safety and reopening plans

The reopening of the airport will be based on the results of the damage assessment carried out after the storm and the condition of the roads leading to the airport. GOAA will work closely with airlines and other partners such as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to ensure the airport is fully operational as quickly as possible.

Impact of Hurricane Milton on Central Florida and Tampa

Hurricane Milton is expected to bring Category 1-2 winds to Central Florida, with peak winds expected to arrive on Wednesday. In addition to strong winds, the region could experience heavy rainfall, which could lead to flooding in some areas. Travelers should monitor local weather forecasts and plan for possible road closures and flooded roads near MCO and other locations.

Meanwhile, Tampa International Airport (TPA) has already suspended all operations and closed its parking garages to the public. TPA is also currently open for emergency flights only and will remain closed until officials can assess the damage following the storm. Passengers traveling via Tampa should check with their airline and be prepared for significant delays.

What travelers should do

• Check flight status: For current flight information, contact your airline. Many flights to and from MCO and TPA are being canceled or postponed, so it is important to stay informed.
• Monitor local shelters: Remember that MCO is not an emergency shelter. Those in need should therefore seek shelter in places designated by local authorities.
• Plan ahead: Be prepared for extended delays at Orlando and Tampa airports as post-storm investigations are underway to determine when regular operations can safely resume.