
Orlando International Airport (MCO), grappling with outdated equipment and a surge in passenger volume, is embarking on a major upgrade to its baggage system. Envisioned as a move to streamline baggage processing and improve the traveler experience, MCO is pouring over $650 million into the overhaul. FOX 35 Orlando reported frustration as passengers experienced delays, with one crowd witnessing a carousel coming to a grinding halt and airport employees resorting to manually distributing bags. "They shut it off," another man said. "Unclogged it, and I think they're having trouble restarting it.
According to ClickOrlando, this initiative is part of a larger effort to not only refresh the technology but also to polish the customer experience. Dan Giordano, who has a wealth of hospitality expertise, brings forth optimism about the renovation, stating, "We want to make it easy, accessible, friendly, fun, and exciting." Caught in the teeth of growth, the current system, a relic from the post-9/11 era, simply can't handle the airport's expanded landscape.
The modernization focuses on the baggage claim areas of Terminals A and B, with promising features designed to pamper weary travelers. These enhancements are expected to cost $652 million and are estimated to tame the beast of 7,000 more bags each day than the previous year.
Despite the anticipation of a smoother experience, travelers must exercise patience. The completion of the project remains a distant sight, with a five-year horizon. In an interim solution, MCO will outsource some bags, particularly from cruise passengers, to enhance flow and alleviate congestion. For those with an eye on the future and who wish to follow the airport’s transformation, a dedicated website, Elevating MCO, has been launched, offering updates and insights.