Orlando International Airport (MCO) announced that it would begin a massive gate link replacement project. The endeavor is set to start on December 3.

Gate Link Replacement ProjectOrlando International Airport

According to a press release from the airport, the replacement of MCO’s gate link will cost $253 million. The gate link is the tram that connects Terminals A and B. In addition to replacing the tram vehicles, the airport will also upgrade infrastructure, communication systems, and platform doors.

The project will take place in phases, according to the airport. Work is set to begin in December and the project should be complete by fall 2027.

Planning Considerations

A large airport terminal and control tower by a lake, similar to Epcot’s sleek lines, under a clear Disney-blue sky.A large airport terminal and control tower by a lake, similar to Epcot’s sleek lines, under a clear Disney-blue sky.

Anyone planning on traveling through MCO during the project should be aware of potential delays. MCO advises, however, that delays should be only a few minutes, even at peak travel, as one tram will always be operational—though if trams are not available, shuttle buses will be provided.

There will be additional signage and staff to help customers at the airport during the gate link project.

More Changes Coming to MCOTravelers sitting and walking in the bright, updated terminal at Orlando International Airport, a gateway to Walt Disney World.Travelers sitting and walking in the bright, updated terminal at Orlando International Airport, a gateway to Walt Disney World.

Updating the tram system is just part of the multi-year major renovation plan at MCO. Several other major changes are coming to the airport as part of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority’s 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program. The program includes $5.9 billion to modernize and expand MCO’s facilities.

One of the upcoming changes is to pivot the terminal naming systems. Terminals A, B, and C will soon be simplified to 1, 2, and 3.

Per the airport’s October 14 press release, other significant changes include:

Complete Airside 2 gate expansionsIncorporate additional passenger conveyance in Terminal C from Palm Court to Gate C230By 2035, complete Terminal C, Phase 2, constructionSupport all activities and projects necessary to attain a 5-star Skytrax rating, a global rating system that ranks airports on quality of service and other standardsNew hotel in Terminal C“Business Incubator” to increase the number of small businesses working with the airportTechnology that will replace boarding passes with facial scans at security and the gateMobile ordering with upgraded restaurants and stores

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Amanda Finn