A recent survey in USA Today reveals that Orlando and Central Florida remain on the top of the list of travel destinations for Americans, despite COVID-19. In fact, the report shows that our region is gaining in popularity for potential American travelers.

The number of travelers at Orlando International Airport (MCO) reflects this gradual renewed interest in June passenger traffic numbers. Overall traffic was down 79.5 percent for the month compared to last June, however it is up 12 percent from May when traffic was down 91.5 percent.

MCO is not alone, the airline industry group Airlines for America reports that their gauge of how crowded planes are .

“As we monitor the gradual increase in traffic volumes,” says Phil Brown, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, “we are cautiously optimistic that the public is more confident traveling to Orlando and realizes the extent to which we are providing a safe and healthy environment for their benefit.”

June Statistical Data:

  • Domestic traffic was down 76.23 percent for the month compared to last June with a total of 874,823 passengers at MCO.
  • International traffic was reduced by 99.8 percent in June with only 1,178 total international travelers.
  • Overall traffic was off 79.54 percent with a total of 876,001 passengers in June.

Mid-year Statistical Data:

  • At the halfway point of the calendar year, domestic traffic is down 49.38 percent with 11,204,952 passengers at MCO.
  • International volume has fallen 61.42 percent with 1,412,945 travelers arriving and departing Orlando International.
  • Overall traffic for the first six months of 2020 is off 51.09 percent with 12,617,897 passengers.

Beginning Nov. 6, on peak demand days United will operate twice daily nonstop flights from Orlando to Boston and New York/LaGuardia and a once-daily flight to Cleveland, Ohio.

On Dec. 17, the Cleveland service will increase to twice daily peak day service and the Boston and New York/LaGuardia routes will operate twice daily all week. The new schedule will operate through January 10, 2021.