Orlando International Airport Remains Closed After Hurricane Milton, Damage Assessment Underway

3 hours ago in "Severe Weather impacts to Walt Disney World"

Hurricane Milton
Posted: Thursday October 10, 2024 1:52pm ET by WDWMAGIC Staff

As Hurricane Milton swept through Central Florida overnight, Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) remain closed to both commercial and private passenger operations.

Several crews have been dispatched to assess the damage left in the storm's wake, which brought powerful winds and heavy rainfall to the area.

Damage Assessment Underway

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is currently conducting damage assessments at both MCO and ORL. Crews are inspecting the buildings and grounds to determine if the airport can safely reopen. Leadership at MCO will make the final decision on reopening based on the feedback from these teams.

Expected Opening Time Still Uncertain

Although a NOTAM (Notice to Air Mission) was filed with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) before Hurricane Milton made landfall, indicating a potential reopening time of 6 pm today, airport officials caution the public against relying on this time as a guaranteed reopening announcement. This time does not account for the comprehensive damage assessment, the time required to bring in adequate staff, or preparations to ensure the safety and efficiency of operations.

Important Information for Passengers

  • Do not go to the airport: Both the curbs and access points to MCO will remain blocked until the airport officially reopens.
  • Check with your airline: Passengers are strongly encouraged to contact their airlines directly to get the latest updates on flight schedules and possible delays.

MCO will continue to work closely with airline partners and federal agencies to resume flight operations as soon as conditions allow.

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VacationeerLess than a minute ago

Ooh it looks like they opened an AK EEH 8p-10p on a Friday night! I don’t think that was previously scheduled, right?

Gringrinngghost8 minutes ago

About 5mi south of AKL.

JKick9516 minutes ago

I made one in advance of the storm. I figured they would limit guests.

rtmachine21 minutes ago

I think if us AP's already have a park pass for tomorrow we're good :)

TomboyJanet22 minutes ago

It may take about a decade or two

SoFloMagic25 minutes ago

At least not in the morning. But once all the disaster-expert-for-a-day vloggers leave, we're good to hop on in

TomboyJanet29 minutes ago

Our friend's daughter was so cute she was like "I hope Tinkerbell doesn't get blown away!"

Fido Chuckwagon35 minutes ago

*Unless you have an annual pass.

Fido Chuckwagon36 minutes ago

The WDW park pass calendar currently indicates no park reservations at any park available for AP holders. So I guess the are opening the parks for day ticket guests, but not for AP holders.

jrhwdw37 minutes ago

Thanks! I saw Steve's Post!

Lilofan37 minutes ago

Tomorrow looks like WDW will truly be the happiest place on earth!

Lilofan38 minutes ago

DHS has scheduled shows Fri 830pm, 930pm.

jrhwdw40 minutes ago

Thanks Steve!!!!!!! Looks like no Entertainment suffered!! 😀😃🙂