Press Releases
GOAA Revenue Bonds Receive Favorable Affirmation From Key Rating Agency
ORLANDO, Fla.— The Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA) has reaffirmed its assessment of a series of bonds issued by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. KBRA maintained its AA rating and Stable outlook on a series of General Airport Revenue Bonds (GARB). The favorable evaluation is the result of Orlando International Airport (MCO) continuing to trend upward on its performance arc.
According to KBRA, the AA rating was influenced by:
• MCO’s substantial, long-established leisure and hospitality component of its passenger traffic, coupled with the region’s rapidly growing and diversifying economic base. • MCO’s exceptionally strong utilization profile reflects historically favorable enplanement growth, very little reliance on connecting traffic activity and a diverse carrier mix. • MCO’s position as the second largest origin and destination (O&D) airport in the U.S. and the top O&D airport in Florida. • Monthly enplanement records were set in every month of FY 2023, with record passenger traffic continuing in each of the first three months of FY 2024. • Significant funding derived from non-airline sources.
Another positive factor noted by KBRA was the Authority’s rates agreement with its airline partners, which affords considerable flexibility in undertaking capital projects without the requirement of airline approval.
The Stable Outlook reflects:
• Expectations for continued growth in O&D market activity given the region’s status as a leading global tourism destination. • The success of the Authority’s highly effective management team in airport operations, strategic planning and the implementation of complex capital.
The Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford market is a leading global venue for tourism. With seven of t
Orlando International Airport Salutes African-American Astronauts for Black History Month
ORLANDO, Fla. – Central Floridians hold great pride for the neighboring Space Coast industry, which is expected to expand with almost 100 launches in 2024, topping the record-breaking 72 launches in 2023. The stories and figures behind the exciting industry are worth sharing with Central Floridians and visitors as well.
In recognition of space travel and Black History Month, Orlando International Airport is recognizing the contributions of African-American astronauts in the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) program. The special exhibit, on Level 3 of the Main Terminal, near the security checkpoint for Gates 70-129, salutes 18 astronauts.
The featured astronauts come from cities around the country, propelled into the space industry by education and training as military pilots, engineers, scientists, and physicians. They have made history with their accomplishments and contributions, and they serve as inspiration for future generations. Spanning decades of historical milestones, the exhibit includes pioneers such as Guion S. Bluford Jr., the first African American to travel into space in 1983 aboard the Challenger, and relative newcomers like Jessica Watkins, who now holds the record as the African-American woman with the most time in space, having spent 170 days on the International Space Station in 2022.
“The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority salutes the achievements of these astronauts and countless other African Americans in the aerospace industry who make spaceflights possible,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “We thank them for their extraordinary dreams and dedication.”
The exhibit will be on display through March 7, 2024.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 50 million annual passengers in its Main Terminal and Terminal C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.
Legislative Proposal On Advanced Air Mobility System To Be Heard During State House Subcommittee Meeting
Orlando, Fla. – A proposal that would designate the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) as the test site for Advanced Air Mobility (HB 981) in the state of Florida is scheduled Thursday to go before the state House Transportation & Modals Subcommittee, chaired by State Representative Fiona McFarland, District 73.
The proposal was filed on December 21, 2023, by State Representative Doug Bankson, District 39.
“We appreciate Chair McFarland and State Representative Bankson’s efforts to create thoughtful legislation that will advance Florida as a leader in the development of Advanced Air Mobility,” said GOAA CEO Kevin J. Thibault. “This proposal can help bring about the partnerships and innovation that will be needed to benefit every airport in Florida.”
During the past several years, GOAA has collaborated with local, state and federal partners, including the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as numerous industry manufacturers and operators, on how to integrate the technology that will be needed at airports to make AAM successful. GOAA, in partnership with state, local and the private industry, has been an industry leader in multimodal connectivity and is the only U.S. airport to have higher-speed passenger rail service onsite and adjacent to an airport terminal.
To date, GOAA has spent close to $20M to plan for and accommodate onsite amongst its 12,000-acre campus for AAM integration on-airport and to support other emerging aerospace technologies. Those activities include the following:
• Aviation-Centric Economic Development Study • Land Management and Site Preparation • Environmental Assessment Site Completion • Airspace Review, Concept Site Plans and 3-D Renderings • Advanced Planning and AAM Industry Stakeholder Outreach • Utility Planning • Airport Layout Plan Update Coordination
As defined in the proposed legislation, Advanced Air Mobility is an air transportation system that primarily uses powered-lift aircraft to carry passengers or cargo in an urban or regional setting. Developing a network of Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft and vertiport facilities will provide residents and visitors access to a rapid and flexible mode of local transportation. AAM could also serve as a platform for medical transportation, emergency services, law enforcement and disaster relief.
According to industry experts, the integration of AAM into today’s National Airspace System has the potential to reduce carbon emissions, reduce noise impacts, create new jobs, provide air service to underserved communities and create opportunities for new and diversified revenue streams for airports.
Orlando International Offers Reserved Parking To Passengers
ORLANDO, Fla. – Innovation is connecting you to a prime parking space at Florida’s busiest airport. Beginning today, passengers at Orlando International Airport (MCO) can guarantee a parking spot through MCO’s new Reserve Parking program.
For an instructional video, please click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WaGOrXQXizU
“This is a perfect example of our strategic plan in action, which focuses on innovation to meet demand and our customers’ needs,” said Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “Having the option to secure parking in advance can help more passengers to experience a seamless journey.”
As MCO continues to welcome record numbers of travelers, parking has been at a premium. A portion of the passenger increase is attributed to local residents. With the local population growing, more Central Florida residents are using the airport. Based on survey data, local residents make up 30% of airport passengers, a jump from 20% a decade ago. This increase has emphasized the need for more parking.
In December, MCO opened three new surface lots to respond to parking needs. The lots are accessible with E-Pass and SunPass Plus. SunPass customers must be enrolled with Easy Pay, and a transponder must be used to enter and exit the lots. In total, the airport has more than 2,000 new parking spaces compared to last year.
The reserve parking program works by allowing passengers to log in to Reserved Parking at MCO or use the MCO mobile app in advance of their arrival to the airport, punch in their vehicle information, make a payment and receive a QR code for easy access to Level 4 of Parking Garage C.
Currently the program is only operational in Garage C on Level 4. Space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis for approximately 715 spots during the rollout of this program. The cost is $32 per day.
If the program is successful, there are plans to replicate it in other parking facilities at the airport, including Terminal Top parking, North Park Place, South Park Place and West Park Place economy parking lots.
Those wishing to reserve a space will be able to do so up to 365 days in advance of their arrival at MCO. All reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance and anyone cancelling their reservation less than 24 hours in advance will be subject to a 50% forfeiture fee. The program is open to all travelers, including Brightline train passengers. There are no designated electric vehicle spaces in the program at this time.
Orlando International Airport is Home to Recipient of 2024 'Women Who Move The Nation' Award
Orlando, Fla.- The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) has announced the 10 women who will be honored this year for their outstanding leadership and exemplary dedication to the transportation industry, and Yovannie Rodriguez, the Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), is included on this year’s list.
The 13th Annual “Celebrating Women Who Move the Nation” (CWWMN) Awards Ceremony will be held on April 10, 2024, at the Smithsonian Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC. This highly anticipated event uplifts women across modes and sectors of transportation who have positively contributed to the industry.
“I am beyond honored to be recognized as one of the distinguished women by the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials,” said Rodriguez. “This award validates not only my ongoing efforts to promote and advance transportation in Central Florida but also highlights the efforts GOAA has made as an organization to become an intermodal hub that uses technology and innovation to connect the world.”
“We could not be more proud of Yovannie and her national recognition as a female transportation leader who moves the nation,” said Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA. “Her dedication, professionalism and accomplishments reflect the high standards of leadership we have established as an organization and also shines a light on our efforts to be the global leader in the evolution of mobility.”
Each year, COMTO honors the nation’s top transportation leaders in advance of Women's History Month. Thus far, 142 women have received the recognition. The honorees encompass a diverse spectrum of multimodal transportation, spanning both the public and private sectors. These women embody excellence in their various areas of influence and affiliations. According to COMTO, the significance of their contributions to advance and fortify our nation's infrastructure is unparalleled.
2024 COMTO Women Who Move the Nation Honorees • Yovannie Rodriguez, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer, Greater Orlando Aviation Authority • Monica Backmon, CEO, Northern Virginia Transportation Authority • Donna Berry, Deputy Director of Project Delivery and Chief Engineer, California Department of Transportation (CDOT) • Veronica Davis, Director, Transportation and Drainage Operations, City of Houston Public Works • Dr. Shelley Francis, Co-Founder, Managing Partner, EVNoire • Gloria Frank, Chief of Police, Port Authority New York, New Jersey • Carmencita Mitchell, Chair, Palm Tran Service Board, Palm Tran Service Board and Palm Beach State College • Rear Admiral, Ann C. Phillips, Administrator, U.S. Maritime Administration • Charlotte Shaw, Executive Director/CEO, MAX Transit, Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority • Janice R. Thomas, Deputy Executive Director, External Affairs, METRA
“We are thrilled to commemorate and acknowledge this year’s awardees for their diligent and unwavering dedication to the multimodal transportation industry. These women bring a diverse set of skills and perspectives to the industry that helps to foster innovation, embrace inclusivity, and navigate the ever-changing landscape of our world with remarkable resilience and adaptability,” said Tanya Adams, Chair, Board of Directors, COMTO and Senior Vice President, Inclusion and Diversity, WSP USA.
“Uplifting women in leadership roles propels the wheels of progress in the transportation industry,” said April Rai, President & CEO COMTO. “Recognizing their contributions is an intentional act of appreciation, inspiring the next generation of transportation leaders to emulate their strength, resilience, and perseverance. It is a privilege to honor these 10 women who embody these qualities and so much more.”
The Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO), founded in 1971, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing underrepresented groups in the transportation industry. With 39 chapters in the U.S. and Canada, COMTO's mission is to ensure opportunities and maximum participation in transportation for minorities, veterans, people with disabilities, and certified minority, women, or disadvantaged-owned businesses through leadership training, professional development, scholarship and internship funding, advocacy, partnership building and networking opportunities. For more information, please visit www.comto.org.
GOAA Board Exploring Automated Parking System
ORLANDO, Fla.— In a continuing effort to maximize the airport parking experience and improve traffic flow, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board approved a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Parking Guidance System at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Similar systems have been successfully deployed at a number of Central Florida attractions and health care facilities.
The Board’s RFP is seeking companies to provide software, hardware, equipment, installation, support, and maintenance for an Automated Guidance System for the Aviation Authority’s parking facilities. The Parking Guidance System will monitor vacancies in real-time, provide colored indicators to identify available spaces and provide pertinent parking information to roadway signage and online applications.
Subject to the final scope of the project, a small business participation goal of 10 percent will be included for the installation services portion of the award. The value of this procurement is estimated at $9,600,000 for software, hardware, installation, commissioning, warranty, and seven years of support and maintenance. The contract is scheduled to be awarded in June of 2024.
An additional passenger convenience item was also approved by the Board. A contract for Curbside Traffic Management Services was awarded to Allied Universal Security Services to ensure the courteous, safe and expeditious movement of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic at Orlando International Airport’s Terminal A, B, and C curbs.
The five-year contract will commence on or about March 1, 2024, and will include a commitment by Allied to honor GOAA’s small business goals. Minority and Women Business Enterprise (MWBE) participation will make up 25 percent of the contract. That component will be worth an estimated $8 million of the not-to-exceed contract total of $32,185,329.00.
Both of these actions underscore the Aviation Authority’s commitment to make the passenger journey as seamless as possible and promote GOAA’s pillars of People, Connection, Community and Innovation.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 50 million annual passengers in its Main Terminal and Terminal C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region
Orlando International Airport's Ageless 'Traveler' Refreshed for His Ongoing Journey
ORLANDO, Fla. – For almost four decades, visitors to Orlando International Airport have enjoyed gazing upon the spectacle affectionately known as “The Sleeping Man” a.k.a. “The Traveler” by artist Duane Hanson. He’s been sitting in his display case on Level 3 of the Main Terminal, undisturbed by time kept on the cracked Seiko watch on his wrist. Recently, the iconic sculpture underwent a refresh and restoration, which was done in public view, much to the amazement of passersby.
Art conservator Diana Galante crawled into the acrylic display case, which was opened for the project, and performed a thorough dusting as well as touching up some imperfections in the paint on the beloved bronze sculpture.
“I loved working on this project,” said Galante. “Duane Hanson’s artworks are so accessible to the public, but also technically masterful. As an art conservator, it’s my job to preserve artwork for the future, which I did by meticulously cleaning the surfaces, then stabilizing and filling losses to the paint. It’s not often I get to be part of the installation.”
Like other large-scale artworks commissioned for the airport, “The Traveler” continues to serve as an intentional and memorable wayfinding design element for visitors and passengers. The unforgettable lifelike sculpture still begs the question, “Is he real?” with viewers watching him intently to see if the figure - dressed in blue shorts, a coral top and running shoes - moves or blinks. When “The Traveler” was unveiled in October 1985, the model who posed for the piece – a neighbor of Hanson’s -- was in attendance, sitting next to the finished sculpture. When the model abruptly stood up and walked away, it caused quite a stir among the staff and visitors.
Originally installed near a bar in the Main Terminal with no covering, “The Traveler” required several refurbishments over the years by Hanson and his stylist, due to the interactions of passengers from around the world, including those who threw coins at him for good luck. While the interaction was appreciated, “The Traveler” was eventually encased in acrylic in its current location, where he continues to delight and intrigue passengers.
Internationally acclaimed artist and sculptor Duane Hanson (1925-1996), who worked from his studio in South Florida, is known for his hyperrealistic sculptures portraying working-class figures dressed in everyday clothes that charm onlookers into believing they are viewing real people.
Using polyester resin, Bondo, bronze or fiberglass, Hanson’s technique involved casting living people and then painting the figure with all the imperfections and veins of actual skin. Hanson also used photography to develop his vision, shooting Polaroids of his models, looking for the pose that felt most real.
“My art is not about fooling people,” Hanson once said. “It's the human attitudes I'm after – fatigue, a bit of frustration, rejection. To me, there is a kind of beauty in all this.”
GOAA’s social media team helped to document the process:
Facebook: https://fb.watch/pwYE5579IY/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/C1-EusIO2lx/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
X: https://twitter.com/MCO/status/1745512486139306000
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7151278167737958400
Minority Business Development Agency, Department of Commerce Collaborate with GOAA to Expand Opportunities for Small, Minority Businesses
ORLANDO, Fla. – Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, hosted a fireside chat yesterday with U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce for the Minority Business Development Agency Donald R. Cravins, Jr., focusing on minority and small businesses and their contributions to help local and global economies thrive.
“It’s encouraging to see a major economic generator like the Orlando International Airport, managed by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, embrace diversity not only within its organizational ranks but also in its interest in working with minority business enterprises and underserved businesses,” Under Secretary Cravins said. “The Minority Business Development Agency’s ultimate mission is to expand access to what businesses need to grow: capital, contracts, networks and markets.”
“The Minority Business Development Agency is proactive in helping minority and underserved businesses be prepared for when opportunities come along,” said Mr. Thibault. “The Aviation Authority has nearly 40 years of commitment to nurturing minority and small businesses through various programs, so we look forward to this opportunity that gives every business a chance to become successful.”
During the morning discussion, attended by GOAA Board members Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, Board Treasurer Belinda Kirkegard and Congressmen Darren Soto and Maxwell Frost, Mr. Thibault and Under Secretary Cravins stressed the importance of collaboration. Other guests included local business leaders and representatives from several Chambers of Commerce.
The Aviation Authority’s largest construction project in history was Terminal C, which opened in 2022. There was an estimated $570M awarded for construction to small businesses and nearly 6,000 jobs were created. In addition, there were at least 130 small business construction subcontractors hired within Central Florida as a result of the project, reflecting support for minority partners.
Under Secretary Cravins shared that the MBDA, which recently became a permanent federal agency, had recently rolled out a number of initiatives, including a Capital Readiness Program, which launches incubators for emerging industries and socially and economically disadvantaged business owners.
Orlando International Airport Takes A Bow Following A Year Of Awards And Recognitions
ORLANDO, Fla. — This may be the season of giving, but Orlando International Airport (MCO) has been fortunate to have been on the receiving end of notable accolades spanning the entire year. Various organizations, publications and groups have recognized MCO for its achievements, facilities and personnel. While the awards ranged from the prestigious to the esoteric, the Board and staff of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) celebrate every one.
With a focus on delivering a unique travel experience for more than 56 million annual passengers, Orlando International was proud to be recognized by the World Travel Awards as North America’s Leading Airport. Other awards for overall excellence included: Best Airport for Recreation by Global Traveler magazine and Best Family-Friendly Domestic Airport from WhereverFamily.com.
Terminal C, the largest project in airport history, received a host of engineering, construction and design awards:
• Project of the Year by Airport Business Magazine. The award was based on innovation, vision, impact and collaboration with key partners including HNTB, Fentress Architects, Burns Engineering, Hensel Phelps, and Turner Construction. • Top Project of the Year — Engineering News-Record (ENR) Southeast. • Excellence in Construction Project of the Year from the Central Florida Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). • Eagle Award in Infrastructure from the Central Florida Chapter ABC. • A+ Award from Architizer, an organization that spotlights architects and designers.
Another key sector where MCO stood out was sustainability. With attention to energy usage and water management practices, along with adhering to stricter building and materials standards, GOAA was lauded for its efforts with the following distinctions:
• Benjamin J. Siwinski Sustainability Award for Terminal C • U.S. Green Building Council (USBC) Sustainability Technology Award — Terminal C • USBC Marquee Green Building Legacy Award — Train Station • Green Apple Environment Awards International Bronze Award for Terminal C
2023 has also been a year of accomplishments for Aviation Authority leadership. GOAA Chief Executive Officer Kevin Thibault was recognized as one of Orlando Business Journal’s 2023 C-Suite Honorees. He was also named one of Orlando Magazine’s “50 Most Powerful People of 2023.” Routes World, an international organization that supports the air transport industry, presented Chief Development Officer Vicki Jaramillo with the 2023 Individual Leadership Award. The GOAA Finance team, led by Chief Financial Officer Kathleen Sharman, received the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association. Gary Trotta, Assistant VP of Operations at Orlando Executive Airport, was named to Airport Business Magazine’s 40 Under 40 list.
There were also a handful of atypical, yet still appreciated, recognitions:
• Best Carpet — Orlando Weekly • Best Digital Signage for Public Spaces — Digital Signage Experience (DIZZIE) • Favorite Airport Shopping — trazeetravel.com, a publication written for and by travelers ages 25-40 • Best Sit-Down Restaurants for Travelers - No. 2: Cask & Larder — USA Today • Best Workplaces for Commuters — Center for Urban Transportation Research
And most recently, at the Airports Council International North America annual conference for Communications, Marketing and Customer Experience, MCO staff received first place honors in the Print Communications category for producing a commemorative book celebrating the opening of Terminal C.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving more than 50 million annual passengers in its Main Terminal and Terminal C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region