Orlando International Airport (MCO) was one of the many airports in Florida that closed operations ahead of Hurricane Milton. The storm caused widespread devastation across the state, including flooded neighborhoods and damaged structures in communities like Fort Myers, Siesta Key, and Tampa. Even Tropicana Field, home of the Tampa Bay Rays, suffered from the effects of the hurricane.
Following the storm, MCO announced that passenger flights and operations resumed on Friday, October 11. The airport had ceased operations on Tuesday, October 8, in preparation for Hurricane Milton. While commercial operations were put on hold, the airport remained open to accept emergency aid and relief flights as needed. The airport urged the public not to use MCO as a shelter during severe weather events.
Before the storm hit, nearly 1,000 flights were impacted, with the last passenger flight leaving for Detroit. The airport continued hurricane preparations by securing various facilities, including the Gate Link and Terminal Link trams.
In addition to MCO, Melbourne Orlando Airport was also closed due to the storm. A video shared by USA Today showed a 30-foot hole in the ceiling of the airport caused by Hurricane Milton.
While Orlando was in the path of the hurricane, the areas most severely affected were Fort Myers, Tampa, and surrounding areas. The extent of the impact on Orlando is still unclear, but the city did experience the effects of the storm.
As the recovery efforts continue in Florida, Orlando International Airport is working to resume normal operations and provide assistance to those in need. The airport will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.
