Flight Reductions Hit Orlando International Airport as Government Shutdown Disrupts Airline Operations

Flight schedules at Orlando International Airport (MCO) are being noticeably affected following the FAA's emergency order to reduce operations nationwide in response to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

Southwest Airlines

As of today, 29 flights have been canceled at MCO. The most affected carrier is Southwest Airlines, which accounts for nearly half of all cancellations. Here's the current breakdown:

• Southwest Airlines: 12
• JetBlue: 5
• Frontier Airlines: 4
• Breeze Airways: 2
• Delta Air Lines: 2
• United Airlines: 2
• American Airlines: 2

Tomorrow, Saturday, November 8, another 29 cancellations are already listed:

• Southwest Airlines: 15
• JetBlue: 3
• Frontier Airlines: 4
• United Airlines: 2
• American Airlines: 2
• Delta Air Lines: 1
• Breeze Airways: 1

Southwest, JetBlue, and Frontier are showing the largest impact so far, aligning with their higher daily flight volumes at MCO.

In a new statement today, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) confirmed that Orlando International is included in the list of 40 U.S. airports affected by the FAA's order limiting flight activity in the National Airspace System. The airport says this reduction is aimed at maintaining safety while addressing staffing challenges at federally operated facilities.

"The reduction in flights is likely to impact passengers, and we ask travelers to check directly with their airlines regarding delays and cancellations," MCO said. "Orlando International Airport will be fully staffed to assist passengers as much as possible during this time."

GOAA added that contingency plans are in place in case of reduced staffing from TSA, CBP, or FAA, and the airport remains in constant communication with federal agencies.

Passengers are encouraged to:

• Check directly with their airline before traveling.
• Use the FlyMCO website or Orlando MCO app to track flight status and security wait times.
• Use the MyTSA app or National Airspace System Status site for broader system updates.

Despite the cancellations, MCO's terminals, parking, and security checkpoints remain fully operational, with airport staff assisting passengers throughout the day.