Orlando International Airport (MCO) is preparing for the coming of Hurricane Milton. Today, the airport announced that it would be suspending operations for commercial flights on Wednesday morning because of the hurricane.
The following statement was shared by MCO ahead of the arrival of Hurricane Milton:
On Wednesday morning, October 9, Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) will cease commercial passenger and private operations in advance of Hurricane Milton, a move made in coordination with our partners.
The airport is not closed and will remain open to accept emergency/aid and relief flights as necessary. We will resume commercial operations as soon as possible based on damage assessment.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages and operates both MCO and ORL, continues to stress safety. Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for flight updates.
GOAA wants to alert the public that MCO is not an authorized shelter. The airport cannot accommodate local residents during severe weather events. We will continue to monitor the storm and provide additional updates as needed.
MCO is the main airport most guests visiting Walt Disney World Resort will fly through. The closure will impact the plans of guests going to and from Orlando. If you are scheduled to fly in or out of Orlando in the coming days (starting on Wednesday), please consult with your airline to see what your options are. Walt Disney World Resort will also accommodate a change in plans due to the hurricane.
At this time, Walt Disney World Resort is “currently operating under normal conditions.” Disney continues to monitor the path of the storm as it continues to “prioritize the safety of our Guests and Cast Members.”
Currently, Orlando and the surrounding areas are all under a Hurricane Warning. The National Weather Service says that this means that “hurricane-force winds are expected somewhere within this area within the next 36 hours.”
This is a serious weather event that should not be taken lightly. If you are staying at the Walt Disney World Resort during this time, please follow the instructions of Disney cast members and other officials. This is for everyone’s safety.
Daps Magic will continue to monitor the progress of Hurricane Milton and provide updates as they become available.