As part of a national effort to improve the travel experience for families, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has officially launched its Families on the Fly initiative at Orlando International Airport (MCO), offering dedicated TSA security lanes designed specifically for parents traveling with children 12 and under.

The program aims to ease the often stressful airport screening process during the busy summer travel season and beyond by recognizing the unique challenges families face—from juggling strollers and diaper bags to keeping children calm and secure through checkpoints.

“We understand that air travel can be challenging, especially for parents managing strollers, diaper bags, and young kids,” said TSA Federal Security Director for Orlando Pete Garcia. “That’s why we’re excited to launch Families on the Fly—a dedicated TSA security lane at every checkpoint, tailored for families with children 12 and under. This program goes beyond convenience; it’s about addressing the unique needs of traveling families to provide a smoother, more supportive experience.”

In addition to Orlando International Airport, Families on the Fly is also being implemented at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport, John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California, and Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu. The TSA plans to expand the program to other select airports in the near future.

The initiative includes:

• ✅ Dedicated Family Screening Lanes

• ✅ Upcoming discounts on TSA PreCheck® enrollment for families

• ✅ Dedicated PreCheck lanes for military service members and their families

The initiative is part of a broader TSA summer campaign aimed at improving hospitality and efficiency across the agency’s 435 U.S. airports. Earlier this month, the TSA also launched its Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease campaign, which provides expedited security access for military personnel and their families at select airports near major military installations.

Travelers flying out of MCO who are active military or civilian Department of Defense personnel can receive free TSA PreCheck by entering their DOD ID number as their Known Traveler Number when booking travel. Children 12 and under may join these individuals in TSA PreCheck lanes without restriction, while children 13-17 must be on the same reservation to access expedited screening.

TSA also continues to offer its TSA Cares program, providing personalized assistance for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special needs.

For more information on Families on the Fly, TSA PreCheck, and other TSA programs, visit tsa.gov or contact @AskTSA via X (formerly Twitter), Facebook Messenger, or by texting questions to 275-872.

To learn more about Orlando International Airport’s family travel resources, visit https://bit.ly/44WO7Bh.

Source: Orlando International Airport Family TSA, MCO Facebook
Photo Source: Facebook.com/flyMCO

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Orlando International Airport, one of the nation’s top 10 busiest airports, serves more than 57 million passengers annually, while Orlando Executive Airport provides critical general aviation access to the region.

Lyttle Brings Decades of Aviation Leadership

Lyttle, who launched his aviation career in 1999 at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport as Chief Information Officer, has held leadership roles in major U.S. airports, including Houston and Seattle. His background includes strategic planning, infrastructure development, and operational management, making him a strong fit to guide Orlando’s growing aviation network.

“Lance Lyttle is a forward-thinking leader with a deep commitment to innovation and a successful record of overseeing the development of new airport terminals in both Seattle and Houston while playing key supportive roles for capital projects in Atlanta,” said Tim Weisheyer, GOAA Board Chairman. “With ongoing projects to enhance the passenger experience, our expanding infrastructure, and our role as a key economic driver for the region, we are confident that Mr. Lyttle will continue to elevate Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports as premier gateways for travelers and businesses alike. We look forward to working together as we embark on this exciting new chapter.”

Lyttle holds a bachelor’s degree in physics and computer science and a master’s degree in management information from the University of the West Indies.

Lyttle’s appointment comes after GOAA’s search for a new CEO, following Kevin J. Thibault’s resignation in December due to a family illness. Thibault, who has led GOAA through record-setting growth, will stay on temporarily to assist with the transition.

“Kevin’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping the future of our airports,” said Weisheyer. “His vision and dedication have positioned Orlando International as a world-class facility, and we respect his decision to prioritize family while expressing deep gratitude for his service.”

Lyttle is expected to take over as CEO as early as April 2025, pending successful contract negotiations.

Board Appointments

In other board action, Stephanie Kopelousos was appointed to complete the term of Vice Chairman, a position previously held by Dr. John L. Evans, Jr.

For more information, contact the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Public Affairs Office at 407-825-2055 or email MCOPIO@goaa.org.

#OrlandoInternationalAirport #GOAA #AviationLeadership #OrlandoGrowth

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“With our experience from the past two holiday seasons, Orlando International Airport is prepared for the robust influx of guests expected this Thanksgiving,” said Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “Our airport staff, security partners and vendors are energized by the challenge of this year’s expected holiday surge.”

After an unusually large increase in passengers in 2023, activity in 2024 will see a slight decline. But this year is still expected to see substantially more passengers than in 2022, which drew 1.75 million total, and previous years.

The busiest day this season is forecast to be the Sunday after Thanksgiving, December 1, which is projected to see a total of 181,688 arriving and departing passengers.

The travel period forecasts:

Airport officials offer passengers advice on how to make their journey go as smoothly as possible, starting with the 3-2-1 rule: Passengers should be at the airport ticket counter 3 hours before their flight; at the checkpoint 2 hours before; and at the gate 1 hour before departure.

Another reminder: Parking will be at a premium. Passengers should take advantage of the Reserved Parking program and remember there are three surface lots available this year.

Passengers can log in  to Reserved Parking at MCO or use the newly-enhanced Orlando MCO mobile app in advance of their arrival to the airport.

The three surface lots, recently renamed Atlantis, Endeavour and Discovery, are located in front of the Train Station. These lots, along with the Overflow parking area, offer approximately 2,000 spaces on airport property. Atlantis, Endeavour and Discovery are only accessible with E-Pass and SunPass Plus. SunPass customers must be enrolled with Easy Pay, and a transponder must be used to enter and exit the lots.

Even with these additional spaces, and availability in the garages, Terminal Top, and the North, South, West and Overflow lots, parking may reach capacity. Passengers are asked to consider using a rideshare program, taxi service or have someone drop them off.

Additional Holiday Travel Tips at MCO: 

• Be patient. Large crowds may cause lines or delays throughout your journey.
• To receive the latest parking updates, download the new Orlando MCO app, or visit our website at FlyMCO. You can also follow us on Twitter @MCO or Facebook @FlyMCO.
• Do not arrive early to pick up a passenger. Have your party call you when they are ready for pickup from the curb, not before. Please use our Travel Plaza and North and South free cell phone waiting areas while waiting. Do not park on the shoulders of airport roadways, which are patrolled by OPD.
• Do NOT bring guns or weapons through security. Check your bags for prohibited items before coming into the terminal.
• TAKE SECURITY SERIOUSLY! DO NOT MAKE JOKES OR LIGHT-HEARTED COMMENTS WHILE BEING PROCESSED FOR A FLIGHT.
• Do not leave bags or packages unattended or accept items from strangers for transport.
• Place identification tags on the outside and inside of checked and carry-on luggage.
• If traveling with a pet or comfort animal, bring a leash. The pet will need to be on a leash while the animal carrier is properly screened by the TSA.

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“This rebranding journey reflects our growth and commitment to the community,” said GOAA Board Chairman Tim Weisheyer. “Our new logo and digital platforms are designed to resonate with travelers and stakeholders alike, representing a forward movement for our airports.

The logo was unveiled during “TAKEOFF 2024,” an event to celebrate the Aviation Authority’s impact and contributions, which featured Ambassador “Sully” Sullenberger III as the keynote speaker. Sullenberger became internationally renowned when, as a pilot, he and his crew safely guided a commercial plane to an emergency water landing, known as the “Miracle on the Hudson.”

The new GOAA website and enhanced app are designed to modernize the Aviation Authority’s digital presence and align with the rebranding, with the website promising to deliver a faster, more secure, and user-friendly experience for all airport visitors.

“Marking the transition from our iconic Rolling ‘O’ logo to a vibrant new visual identity that reflects the dynamic spirit of our community and enhances the travel experience for our passengers is a significant milestone in our journey,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). “This rebranding initiative is grounded in our commitment to our four core pillars: People, Community, Connection, and Innovation, and it cleverly touches on each.”

There is also a new website address for the Orlando International Airport (flyMCO.com). Website users will now use flyORL.com for Orlando Executive Airport. 

To enjoy the new app experience, you will need to download it in the App or Play Store. The enhanced MCO app delivers all the features that make travel easier and more efficient with indoor turn-by-turn navigation, security checkpoint wait times, and flight status notifications. Parking information provides users with current availability and access to our Reserved Parking system.

These updates are designed to make it easier for passengers to navigate airport services, stay informed, and enjoy their journey.

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With each button, travelers have a chance to celebrate special occasions, share their love for MCO, and take home a unique keepsake that highlights their experience in Orlando. Whether it’s a first trip, a birthday celebration, or simply the joy of traveling, this program offers a memorable way to mark the occasion and carry a piece of MCO wherever they go.

The first round of buttons is a limited-edition collection, available only until MCO’s rebranding is unveiled with a fresh new logo. Following the rebranding reveal on November 13, a new line of commemorative buttons will be introduced.

These special-edition buttons are available at the following Information Booths, from 4:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., daily:

The “Memories Created in Orlando” button program aligns with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s Mission to offer exceptional experiences, collaboration, and creativity as we seamlessly connect Florida and the world.

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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, 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.

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“Thank you and Immediate Past Chairman Carson Good for the support you’ve given me over the past two years. I wish you and all the GOAA team the very best,” Thibault wrote. Reflecting on his tenure, he added, “As a transportation professional, to serve as both a state transportation secretary and now as the Chief Executive Officer of the 7th largest airport in the United States has truly been the pinnacle of my career. Looking back at the progress made, I am confident this airport is positioned for continued greatness.”

Thibault’s resignation follows more than two years of leadership at Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). Under his guidance, MCO saw passenger traffic grow from 50 million to over 58 million, solidifying its position as the busiest airport in Florida and the 7th busiest in the U.S..

GOAA Board Chairman Tim Weisheyer praised Thibault’s contributions: “Kevin has been an exceptional leader and tireless advocate for our airport and community. His dedication to excellence has left an indelible mark, and while we respect his decision to put family first, we will greatly miss his vision and leadership.”

Before joining GOAA, Thibault served as Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) for 19 years, focusing on delivering multimodal transportation solutions through strategic partnerships. During his GOAA tenure, his most notable achievements include the opening of the $2.8 billion Terminal C, which is adjacent to the Brightline train station, and spearheading the development of a new Strategic Plan, built on the pillars of People, Connection, Community, and Innovation.

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The annual performance by the Orlando Philharmonic will be held at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 29, on Level 2, Departures, of Terminal C at Orlando International Airport. The musical program will include patriotic favorites and American classics. The Aviation Authority invites the community to attend the free event.

Prior to the concert at 6:30 p.m., the Central Florida Community Arts Choir will sing a selection of familiar tunes during a prelude performance. At 6:45 p.m., the Colonel Joe Kittinger Award will be presented to a distinguished local veteran for service and contributions to aviation, the country and the Central Florida community.

Those attending the event will receive three hours of complimentary garage parking. For ease of parking, please follow the blue roadway signs to the Terminal C parking garage. When entering Parking Garage C, pull a parking ticket. Attendees will be given a validated ticket at the event. Validation does not apply to valet parking, E-PASS/SunPass or Reservation Parking.

Join the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority for a night of unity and joy as we celebrate the nation’s birthday in style. 🇺🇸✨

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The 13^th Annual “Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation” (CWWMN) Awards Ceremony will be held on April 10, 2024, at the Smithsonian Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC. This highly anticipated event uplifts women across modes and sectors of transportation who have positively contributed to the industry.

“I am beyond honored to be recognized as one of the distinguished women by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials,” said Rodriguez. “This award validates not only my ongoing efforts to promote and advance transportation in Central Florida but also highlights the efforts GOAA has made as an organization to become an intermodal hub that uses technology and innovation to connect the world.”

“We could not be more proud of Yovannie and her national recognition as a female transportation leader who moves the nation,” said Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA. “Her dedication, professionalism and accomplishments reflect the high standards of leadership we have established as an organization and also shines a light on our efforts to be the global leader in the evolution of mobility.”

Each year, COMTO honors the nation’s top transportation leaders in advance of Women’s History Month. Thus far, 142 women have received the recognition. The honorees encompass a diverse spectrum of multimodal transportation, spanning both the public and private sectors. These women embody excellence in their various areas of influence and affiliations. According to COMTO, the significance of their contributions to advance and fortify our nation’s infrastructure is unparalleled.

2024 COMTO Women Who Move the Nation Honorees

• Yovannie Rodriguez, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority

• Monica Backmon, CEO, Northern Virginia Transportation Authority
• Donna Berry, Deputy Director of Project Delivery and Chief Engineer, California

Department of Transportation (CDOT)

• Veronica Davis, Director, Transportation and Drainage Operations, City of Houston

Public Works

• Dr. Shelley Francis, Co-Founder, Managing Partner, EVNoire
• Gloria Frank, Chief of Police, Port Authority New York, New Jersey
• Carmencita Mitchell, Chair, Palm Tran Service Board, Palm Tran Service Board and

Palm Beach State College

• Rear Admiral, Ann C. Phillips, Administrator, U.S. Maritime Administration
• Charlotte Shaw, Executive Director/CEO, MAX Transit, Birmingham Jefferson

County Transit Authority

• Janice R. Thomas, Deputy Executive Director, External Affairs, METRA

“We are thrilled to commemorate and acknowledge this year’s awardees for their diligent and unwavering dedication to the multimodal transportation industry. These women bring a diverse set of skills and perspectives to the industry that helps to foster innovation, embrace inclusivity, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of our world with remarkable resilience and adaptability,” said Tanya Adams, Chair, Board of Directors, COMTO and Senior Vice President, Inclusion and Diversity, WSP USA.

“Uplifting women in leadership roles propels the wheels of progress in the transportation industry,” said April Rai, President & CEO COMTO. “Recognizing their contributions is an intentional act of appreciation, inspiring the next generation of transportation leaders to emulate their strength, resilience, and perseverance. It is a privilege to honor these 10 women who embody these qualities and so much more.”

The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO), founded in 1971, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing underrepresented groups in the transportation industry. With 39 chapters in the U.S. and Canada, COMTO’s mission is to ensure opportunities and maximum participation in transportation for minorities, veterans, people with disabilities, and certified minority, women, or disadvantaged-owned businesses through leadership training, professional development, scholarship and internship funding, advocacy, partnership building and networking opportunities. For more information, please visit www.comto.org.

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