Orlando Aviation Authority Unveils 10-Year Strategic Vision for Orlando Airport

GOAA Unveils Bold 10-Year Vision for Orlando’s Airports

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has unveiled an ambitious new strategic vision to guide the next decade of growth for both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). The plan centers on enhancing the guest experience, supporting the community, and driving economic innovation across Central Florida’s aviation landscape.

Related: Disney World Blocks Labor Strike by Food Service Employees in EPCOT

The new framework, developed under the leadership of CEO Lance Lyttle, is built around four pillars: Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People. Since assuming the role earlier this year, Lyttle has emphasized transforming Orlando’s airports into “world-class gateways” that combine efficiency, hospitality, and sustainability.

“This vision focuses and unites everything we do around one core purpose: delivering an exceptional experience for everyone who passes through our airports,” said Lyttle. “We’re creating spaces that are more welcoming, efficient, and enjoyable, from the parking areas to the gate, so that every step of the journey feels seamless.”

Presented during an October 8 workshop and approved at this week’s board meeting, the plan outlines clear benchmarks through 2035. Chair of the GOAA Board, Stephanie Kopelousos, called the vision “forward-looking and balanced,” noting it aligns growth and innovation with community needs and regional pride.

The plan will be supported by the recently updated $5.9 billion Capital Improvement Program for MCO and an $84.2 million program for ORL, ensuring infrastructure and amenities continue to meet rising travel demand.

Key Goals from the Vision Plan

Customer Experience

• Pursue a coveted 5-star Skytrax rating, placing MCO among the world’s top-ranked airports.
• Activate 60% of ORL’s currently vacant real estate by 2035 to expand aviation services and revenue opportunities.

Community

• Develop a new cargo processing facility and an FAA-approved on-airport AAM (Advanced Air Mobility) vertiport by 2030.
• Grow non-aeronautical revenue by 30% over 2025 levels.

Infrastructure

• Add 8,000 new public parking spaces and expand Airside 2 by 2030.
• Complete a new baggage handling system for Terminals A & B.
• Extend passenger conveyance in Terminal C and complete its second phase by 2035.

People

• Establish a business incubator at MCO by 2030 to foster small-business growth and innovation.
• Increase employee engagement by 20% by 2028, aiming for a 90% satisfaction score.

Additional initiatives include renaming airport terminals for clarity (as Terminals 1, 2, and 3) and restoring key environmental systems such as stormwater infrastructure.

With record passenger volumes and Central Florida’s tourism industry continuing to expand, GOAA’s vision aims to keep MCO and ORL positioned as leading global transportation hubs.

Related: Your Ultimate Guide to the Holidays at Universal Orlando Resort 2025