It’s a common sound in the Nonahood: the rushing of wind soaring overhead as airplanes come racing in and out from Orlando International Airport (MCO) over Lake Nona. Orlando continues to be one of the top tourist destinations for both domestic and international travelers, meaning that MCO receives a lot of foot traffic on an annual basis.
Though this noise and all the hustle and bustle that comes with living next to one of the busiest airports in the United States is a commonality, what is much lesser known is Orlando International Airport’s recent naming as “Large Airport of the Year” by CAPA Centre for Aviation. Chief Executive Officer Phil Brown accepted this gracious award at the CAPA’s Aviation Awards for Excellence ceremony in Berlin.
“This award reflects the value of customer service excellence that is achieved through strategic planning, innovative use of technology, and strong relationships with our airline partners and community,” said Frank Kruppenbacher, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority chairman. “We thank the community for helping us achieve this recognition.”
The “Large Airport of the Year” award is a distinction that recognizes an airport that serves more than 30 million annual passengers and stands out against the competition for their use of increased technology, exceptional service, and innovative development.
MCO was this year’s standout in all categories, due in part to the immense number of passengers serviced, 46 million, along with an increase in various international routes from MCO, including 14 destinations in Europe, 31 in Latin America/Caribbean, 15 in Canada and one in the Middle East. MCO also claimed the title this year because of their recent implementation of Customs and Border Protection’s biometric entry and exit program for arrival and departure of all international travelers. Last, but certainly not least, the continued development of the brand new South Terminal Complex, set to open in 2021, made Orlando International Airport a standout contender.
This is also the second year in a row that MCO has been named by J.D. Power “Highest in Customer Satisfaction for Mega Airports.” This honor comes from recognition in terminal facilities, airport accessibility, security check, baggage claim, check-in/baggage check, food and beverage, and retail. Orlando International Airport remains the 11th busiest airport in the United States and serves as Florida’s main gateway for millions of the region’s 72 million annual visitors and business travelers.
“As the premier global gateway into the nation’s most-visited destination, Orlando International Airport is proud that our more than 46 million annual passengers think so highly of us,” stated the airport’s executive director, Phil Brown. “We strive to value and delight our customers, and we appreciate their recognition of our service.”
