Orlando, known worldwide as the theme park capital, also boasts the title of the world’s largest rental car market. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a key hub for many of the city’s rental vehicles, but the growing number of cars is putting strain on the airport’s parking capacity.
In 2023, MCO handled over 57 million travelers, a significant increase from the 50 million passengers in 2022. This surge in passenger traffic is placing more pressure on the airport’s parking facilities, which are frequently full due to the high number of rental cars taking up space in surface lots and garages. To combat this issue, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has proposed a solution, but it comes at a cost to rental car customers.
The Growing Challenge at MCO
- Passenger increase: Over 57 million travelers in 2023 compared to 50 million in 2022
- Parking congestion: Parking garages are often at capacity, partly due to rental car companies occupying large portions of available spaces
- Rental car dominance: Many cars at MCO are rental vehicles, contributing to the parking challenges
To alleviate this congestion, GOAA plans to follow in the footsteps of other major airports by relocating rental car operations to a consolidated off-site facility. Airports such as Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) have already implemented this strategy, easing terminal congestion and freeing up much-needed parking space.
The New Rental Car Facility at MCO
On August 21, 2023, GOAA presented its plan for a consolidated rental car facility as part of the 2024-2025 fiscal year budget. The facility, located near Terminal C, aims to enhance the rental car experience while addressing space limitations in the airport’s parking garages. According to Angela Starke, GOAA’s senior vice president of public affairs and community relations, the new facility will free up approximately 5,000 parking spaces in the existing A, B, and C garages, benefiting both rental car companies and passengers.
How the Project Will Affect Travelers
Although the new facility won’t be operational until 2032, rental car customers will feel the impact of the project much sooner. Starting on November 1, 2024, MCO will increase its Customer Facility Charge (CFC) from $6 to $9 per day to help fund the project. This $3 daily fee increase applies to most airport rental car transactions, with a maximum collection period of seven days. The highest potential increase a customer could see is $21 for a rental period of seven days or more.
Once the increase takes effect, MCO will have the second-highest CFC in the country, trailing only San Francisco International Airport (SFO), where the CFC is set at $10 per day. Though this increase will lead to higher costs for travelers renting cars at MCO, there are still ways to manage and reduce car rental expenses.
Ways to Save on Car Rentals at MCO
While rental car fees are increasing, you can still find ways to save on your next rental at MCO. Consider these tips:
- Bypass toll convenience fees: Use the free Orlando Visitor Toll Pass to avoid the Toll Convenience Fee that rental car companies often charge. You’ll still pay the tolls but won’t have to cover the additional service fees.
- Use price comparison tools: Websites like AutoSlash help travelers compare rental car rates across multiple companies and apply available discounts, including membership savings, coupons, and more.
- Book early: Securing your rental car well in advance often results in lower rates and ensures availability, especially during peak travel periods.
What to Expect in the Future
Travelers renting cars at MCO in the coming years should anticipate both fee increases and construction as the airport progresses with its plans for the off-site rental car facility. Although the convenience of walking directly from the terminal to your rental car may soon be a thing of the past, the new facility will ultimately reduce congestion and improve the overall airport experience.
Final Thoughts
Orlando International Airport’s plan to build a consolidated rental car facility is a long-term solution to the growing congestion caused by rental cars at the airport. While this new facility will free up thousands of parking spaces and ease terminal congestion, the increased rental car fees are likely to affect travelers immediately. Starting November 1, 2024, customers will see a rise in their rental costs due to the higher Customer Facility Charge, but there are still ways to save on rental expenses. Utilizing tools like AutoSlash and taking advantage of programs like the Visitor Toll Pass can help mitigate some of these rising costs.
Ultimately, the new rental car facility will bring lasting benefits to Orlando International Airport, improving the overall travel experience for millions of passengers. Although the construction will take years to complete, the project represents a step toward a more efficient and spacious airport environment. Travelers should prepare for these changes, keeping cost-saving strategies in mind as they plan future trips to Orlando.
