Orlando International Airport expands Terminal C to boost CX

Orlando International Airport has expanded Terminal C with a new gate wing and welcomed Virgin Atlantic to the terminal, increasing capacity, improving passenger flow and supporting future growth.

Summary:

Orlando International Airport has opened a new wing at Terminal C, adding flexible MARS gates to increase capacity and support future growth.
The expansion coincides with Virgin Atlantic’s relocation to Terminal C, improving operational efficiency and balancing passenger flows across the airport.
The additional capacity will support 10 to 12 million passengers annually while preparing the airport for major renovations to Terminals A and B.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has marked a major milestone in its ongoing effort to elevate the passenger experience with the opening of a new wing supporting gate expansion in Terminal C and the relocation of Virgin Atlantic operations to the terminal.

“This new wing is an important step in our vision to deliver the very best experience for every guest who travels through Orlando International Airport,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which manages Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports. “By expanding Terminal C and welcoming Virgin Atlantic to its new home, we are adding capacity, improving flexibility, and creating a more balanced flow of passengers across all terminals.”

The new Terminal C gates are designed as Multiple Aircraft Ramp System (MARS) gates, similar to the existing gates at Terminal C, allowing them to accommodate up to eight narrow-body aircraft positions or four wide-body aircraft. The gates also feature common use equipment that will enable flexible operations by a variety of airlines for both domestic and international service.

Virgin Atlantic’s move from Terminal A to Terminal C aligns with the opening of the expanded wing area and gives the airline a home in MCO’s newest terminal. The relocation supports more efficient international arrivals and departures while helping distribute passenger activity more evenly across the airport campus. The expansion increases Terminal C’s capacity, helping the airport to accommodate 10 to 12 million passengers annually while slightly reducing passenger traffic in Terminals A and B. With nearly 58 million passengers travelling through MCO in 2025, the additional capacity is expected to support a smoother, more predictable passenger flow at checkpoints, concessions, baggage claim, and other high-traffic areas.

The added capacity comes as the Aviation Authority prepares for major renovations in Terminals A and B. Planned improvements include updated and expanded restrooms across all four airsides, as well as refreshed interiors at Airsides 1 and 3 with new finishes, lighting, and other enhancements.