MCO brings digital ambassador Annie to life as live mascot

Orlando International Airport is bringing its digital ambassador Annie the Astronaut to life as a live mascot, creating new opportunities to engage passengers and the local community beyond the terminal’s digital screens.

Summary:

Orlando International Airport (MCO) has introduced Annie the Astronaut as a live mascot, expanding the airport ambassador’s role beyond its digital passenger communications.
Annie has appeared across MCO’s digital signage since 2017, helping make airport information, wayfinding, security guidance and passenger messaging more engaging.
The live mascot will create new opportunities for passenger and community engagement, supporting MCO’s focus on customer satisfaction and an enhanced airport experience.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has introduced its airport ambassador ‘Annie’ as a live mascot, in partnership with Synect (Diamond Sponsor of FTE Global, Dallas, Texas, 8 to 10 September 2026). The debut marks an exciting new chapter for the character, who has welcomed and guided travellers by way of the airport’s digital signage for nearly a decade.

“Annie’s astronaut theme pays tribute to Central Florida’s rich aerospace heritage and embodies the excitement, optimism, and sense of possibility that come with every journey,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which manages MCO. “Thanks to our External Affairs team and creative partners for bringing Annie to life.”

Created as part of MCO’s digital communications ecosystem, Annie the Astronaut was designed to make airport information, wayfinding, security guidance, and passenger messaging more approachable and engaging. Annie, who digitally debuted during the 2017 Thanksgiving travel season, has since become a distinct part of the MCO experience. In fact, in 2025, MCO opened Annie’s Space Sensory Room, a safe and soothing sanctuary designed specifically for travellers with sensory sensitivities and their families. The space features Annie alongside her canine companion, Luna. Now, with the rendering of a live Annie mascot, MCO can take Annie directly to the Central Florida community.

“By introducing Annie as a live mascot, we’re creating new opportunities for engagement for everyone,” said Kenyatta Lee, Chief of External Affairs, GOAA. “Through various events and channels, Annie will connect MCO to our passengers and community in a new way.”

The mascot was developed through a collaborative effort involving GOAA teams and creative partners, including Synect Media and Chicago Mascot. The live Annie the Astronaut mascot also supports GOAA’s Strategic Vision to enhance customer satisfaction.