ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Thousands of Puerto Ricans continue to struggle after Hurricane Fiona hit the island earlier this week.

ORLANDO, Fla. — People in Central Florida are preparing to take in any evacuees from Puerto Rico. Staff from Rep. Darren Soto’s office stood at the arrivals gate of Orlando International Airport on Wednesday. Watch: Central Florida organizations begin collecting aid for Puerto RicoThey welcomed people from the island with pamphlets listing all the resources available to them. “As a fellow Puerto Rican, this breaks my heart,” said Roxy Santiago. ©2022 Cox Media Group

The first flights touched down Tuesday at Orlando International Airport’s newest terminal.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The number of international travelers is up at Orlando International Airport. Here’s what to expectAirport officials said the number of passengers was up nearly 185% in July over this time last year. International volume continued to climb as more global travelers took to the skies and made Orlando their destination of choice. In fact, for the calendar year to date, international travel is up nearly 300% over 2021. See: Hurricane Fiona: Photos, videos capture destruction in Puerto RicoOfficials said international traffic jumped 184.80% with 539,972 total international arrivals and departures for the month of July.

The new $3 billion terminal, Terminal C, will open with 15 gates for domestic and international fights. READ: Orlando International Airport gives update on Terminal C openingIt will house 10 automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. Terminal C is expected to serve an additional 10 to 12 million travelers a year. READ: New Orlando terminal is $2.8 billion bet on Florida tourismAnother huge change jetsetters can expect: how they get their luggage. Eight other airlines will soon be added to Terminal C.READ: These airlines will move to OIA’s new Terminal C once it opensVideo: Orlando International Airport gives update on Terminal C opening Officials with Orlando International Airport gave up update Tuesday on their massive Terminal C expansion.

More international passengers are making their way through Orlando International Airport, which has seen a nearly 300% increase in international travel over 2021, according to GOAA.

ORLANDO, Fla. — (AP) — Visitors to the new terminal at Orlando International Airport may want to wear sunscreen, shades and a floppy hat. With 40.3 million passengers last year, Orlando International Airport was the busiest airport in Florida, according to Airports Council International. Officials at Orlando International Airport said the new terminal is one of the most technologically advanced in the U.S. Suitcases and other baggage at Terminal C will be deposited in large, chip-embedded tubs that are tracked through radio frequency technology. Airport officials believe that will open up Orlando International Airport to Europe-bound passengers from South Florida who may have previously used Miami International Airport.

Visitors to the new terminal at Orlando International Airport may want to wear sunscreen.

Expect a few showers and storms to develop through the afternoon

Sunwing Airlines will offer flights to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Toronto, Ontario and Winnipeg Manitoba.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. The Orlando Utilities Commission has proposed the sale of a large piece of land near Orlando International Airport. OUC got the property in 2007 from Southern Co. - Jetport LLC as “part of a settlement and termination agreement for a power generation development project that was planned to be at the Stanton Energy Center,” according to the agenda item. Read: New Winter Park bagel shop offering free bagelsClick here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website. Video: OUC deploys artificial reef with 400 tons of concrete (WFTV)©2022 Cox Media Group

Flight cancellation and delay rates were up this summer compared with 2019.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Barnie’s Coffee & Tea Co. has two new locations brewing in Central Florida. The Orlando-based coffee roaster will also give its flagship Winter Park location a facelift. The company said the new locations will be at the University of Central Florida and the new Terminal C at Orlando International Airport. Barnie’s at OIA’s Terminal C is expected to open to travelers this fall. Read: 9 not-so-basic facts about pumpkin spiceThe renovated cafe on Park Avenue in Winter Park is expected to be complete in early February 2023.

Whatever you choose to bring through security and onto the plane now goes into a bin at the new Terminal C security checkpoint. Everything. So there's less chance that laces or straps will get wrapped in the x-ray machine rollers.

Walt Disney World has shared a first look at a new store set to open at the new state-of-the-art Terminal C at Orlando International Airport.

WINTER PARK, Fla. — The city of Winter Park and Friends of Casa Feliz will dedicate an official marker to commemorate the old mansion as a historic site. Watch: Orlando International Airport to give update on Terminal C openingThe ceremony will happen at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday. Casa Feliz, or “happy house,” is an old farmhouse that was saved from the wrecking ball in 2001. Watch: For restaurants, hiring remains ‘a challenge’ beyond pandemic recoveryThe site is now sued by Winter Park as an event space for the city. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

ORLANDO, Fla. — There is still time to get rid of old campaign yard signs by recycling them. Watch: Orlando International Airport to give update on Terminal C openingTuesday is the last day the City of Orlando will accept signs from last month’s primary election. There are six drop-off spots throughout Orlando. Watch: Orange County woman accused of voter fraud in 2020 election to face judge TuesdayMore information about election sign recycling can be found here. Read: Uvalde school year starts amid fear and unfinished securityClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Some looking for work have a chance to join Central Florida’s world-famous hospitality industry. Watch: Orlando International Airport to give update on Terminal C openingMarriott Vacations Worldwide is hiring up to 150-hourly positions at its nine Central Florida resorts. There will be an in-person hiring event Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.Watch: For restaurants, hiring remains ‘a challenge’ beyond pandemic recoveryThe event will be held at the Sheraton Vistana Resort, near Walt Disney World. Watch: Secretary of Labor: Teachers need more in their contract negotiationsMarriott has openings for all hours of the day, and the company said they will pay for training for new hires. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando International Airport is getting ready for one of its biggest moves yet. Photos: Orlando International Airport to give update on Terminal C openingExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Orlando International Airport to give update on Terminal C openingOfficials said the $3 billion facility will offer new amenities and feature state-of-the-art technology. Read: Orlando International Airport announces concessions offerings for new Terminal CSome of the new features include facial recognition at the gates and automated screening lanes at Transportation Security Administration checkpoints. Airport leaders said that to start, the new terminal will help serve an additional 10 to 12 million travelers a year. Read: These airlines will move to OIA’s new Terminal C once it opensChannel 9 has a crew working to gather more details and will provide updates on Eyewitness News.

This year, nearly 20% more travelers were expected to travel through Orlando International Airport over Labor Day weekend than during the same period in 2021, according to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

ORLANDO, Fla. — It has been a busy Labor Day holiday weekend at the airports in Central Florida. Watch: Florida troopers expect busy roads in Central Florida for Labor DayNearly 120,000 people are expected to fly in and out of Orlando International Airport on Monday. Photos: Holiday travel surges at Central Florida airports over Labor Day weekendExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Holiday travel surges at Central Florida airports over Labor Day weekendThere were smaller crowds for security lines Monday morning and things have been running smoothly. OIA leaders have estimated that more than 760,000 people will pass through the airport during the Labor Day travel period. Read: 9 tips to travel safely this Labor Day weekendParking has also not been an issue at OIA with spots still available as of Monday afternoon.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando International Airport said it expects 20% more travelers than last year, including 128,000 passengers on Sunday. And that’s just during this six-day Labor Day travel period. Read: Labor Day travel surge expected at Orlando International Airport this weekendMore than 764,000 thousand travelers are expected to fly through OIA between last Thursday and this Tuesday. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Orlando International Airport spotlights impact of Biden’s infrastructure billFor Jalena Post and her family, winging it means a sleepover at the airport ahead of their 6 a.m. flight home. Read: “We’re getting real close”: New terminal at Orlando International Airport nearing completionThe roughly $2.8 billion expansion includes 15 new gates and will raise passenger capacity at the airport from 47 million to 60 million.

Airport officials said the traditional end of the 2022 summer travel season brought almost 20% more travelers than last year.

ORMOND BEACH, Fla. — A former hospital could become the site of new homes in Ormond Beach. Watch: FAA investigating after close call between small plane and jetliner at Orlando International AirportThe oceanside hospital closed after Hurricane Irma in 2017. There is a plan to build 15 homes on the site and to use a lot across the street to build a new hotel. Watch: Labor Day travel surge expected at Orlando International Airport this weekend“So, anything like that over the next few years will help the city of Ormond Beach and beachside bring more people and more revenue and people to the beach,” said Dave Lamotte. Watch: Florida’s failing insurance market contributing to rent crisisThere’s a neighborhood meeting on Sept. 14 to discuss the potential project.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating a close call at Orlando International Airport. Watch: Plane crash at Orlando Executive Airport that killed 1, injured another under investigationThe incident occurred last month and involved a single-engine Cessna and a Delta Air Lines Boeing 757 that crossed paths shortly after taking off from nearby runways. The Cessna pilot noticed the 757 and steered clear. Watch more in the video above. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s going to be a busy Friday at airports in Central Florida as people start traveling for the Labor Day weekend. Read: 9 tips to travel safely this Labor Day weekendCrews at Orlando International Airport are preparing for 140,000 people to pass through on Friday. Airport leaders are telling people to show up early because it’s going to be packed. Watch: International travel to Central Florida reaching pre-pandemic levels, experts sayAccording to airport officials, the six-day Labor Day travel period will exceed 2021 traffic by nearly 63,000 passengers, or 19.6%. A new report from the Department of Transportation shows passenger complaints were up 35% in June compared to the prior month.

As demand for housing across Central Florida continues to boom, one local city is pausing plans for construction of new subdivisions as leaders revamp zoning codes.

Pilots across the country and at Orlando International Airport are planning to protest, ahead of a busy travel weekend.

A fire sprang up at a Burger King located with the Orlando International Airport Wednesday evening, according to airport officials.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Fire Department at Orlando International Airport is investigating the cause of a fire at one of their retaurants that filled the immediate area with smoke Wednesday evening. While investigating, our Fire Department was able to extinguish the fire initially found at Burger King. — Orlando International Airport (@MCO) August 31, 2022They haven’t commented on exactly what caused the fire. Officials say operations at the affected gates will be able to resume once the smoke is cleared from the area. VIDEO: Fire sparks at Orlando International Airport Burger King A fire broke out at a restaurant in Orlando International Airport Wednesday evening.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Airline workers from the Transport Workers Union gathered at Orlando International Airport to speak about unruly and abusive passengers, after the number of incidents has skyrocketed over the past two years. Workers from Southwest, Allegiant and JetBlue handed out bracelets, cards and fliers that read “Assault Won’t Fly,” part of their campaign to educate passengers to try to get laws passed to better project employees. READ: Man attacks woman at knifepoint in OIA bathroom, police say“They just go crazy now,” flight attendant Raychel Armstrong said. Congressman Darren Soto is one of the lawmakers behind a House bill called the Protection from Abusive Passengers Act. READ: These airlines will move to OIA’s new Terminal C once it opensVideo: OIA awarded $50M in federal funds to enhance Terminal C OIA has been awarded $50 million for its expansion of the new 15-gate terminal.

A multi-agency investigation uncovered an international smuggling operation out of Winter Haven that brought drugs into Central Florida, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.

A vehicle became "disabled" Thursday afternoon following reports of a lightning strike near Interstate 95 in Mims, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. The Orlando International Airport leadership set big goals for its 10-year discussion — including the possibility of an on-site K-12 school. Read: 3 including mother and child injured by lightning strike in Winter Springs, authorities sayThe Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, the governing entity of the airport, went through a wishlist of wants for the airport over the next decade during its Aug. 17 meeting. Read: Missing child found inside Florida teacher’s homeClick here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 South Terminal C Channel 9 got a sneak peek at Orlando International Airport's new South Terminal C project on Monday.

Recent data shows July was hotter than normal across the entire globe.

Central Florida Community Arts is hosting a Beatles and Beach Boys tribute concert at Northland Church at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 26.

Michelle and Anthony Canton's motto is "Life is short! Eat the Cookie!"

Tenderloin, strip, rib eye, porterhouse—the words alone of the choicest cuts of cow, aged to tenderized perfection and served under bordelaise, béarnaise, or au poivre, are enough to get a meat lover salivating and making their next reservation for a night at a steakhouse.

When photographed next to a human hand, you can see the Atlas Moth's size is roughly 10 inches across.

Orlando International Airport is raising its prices for garage parking.

Video: Orlando International Airport leaders may increase parking costs for travelers Your trip from Orlando International Airport could get more expensive. (James Tutten, WFTV.com)ORLANDO, Fla. — It will soon be more expensive to park at Orlando International Airport. READ: OIA awarded $50M in federal funds to enhance Terminal CThis marks the first increase for those lots in 15 years. READ: Orlando International Airport spotlights impact of Biden’s infrastructure billGarages A, B and C would all go up to $21 a day. READ: Here’s more on Orlando airport’s next expansion plansVideo: OIA awarded $50M in federal funds to enhance Terminal C OIA has been awarded $50 million for its expansion of the new 15-gate terminal.

Video: Orlando International Airport leaders may increase parking costs for travelers Your trip from Orlando International Airport could get more expensive. (James Tutten, WFTV.com)ORLANDO, Fla. — Your trip from Orlando International Airport could get more expensive. WATCH: Orlando International Airport spotlights impact of Biden’s infrastructure billAirport leaders will decide Wednesday afternoon whether to charge visitors more to park their cars. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 South Terminal C Channel 9 got a sneak peek at Orlando International Airport's new South Terminal C project on Monday. The airport said these proposed increases are necessary because it costs more to operate the parking facilities.

A father and his 2-year-old daughter were removed from a Frontier Airlines flight traveling from Orlando, Florida, to Atlanta, Georgia, on Sunday, August 7, according to news reports.

Safer airport workers mean safer airplane passengers, say experts

A trial is scheduled for Thursday morning following the arrest of ex-NFL player Zac Stacy at the Orlando International Airport last year, in which he was accused of attacking the mother of his child in her Central Florida home.

A school bus leaving Tavares High School was rear-ended on State Road 44, according to Lake County Schools.

The Transportation Security Administration, their contractor Idemia and airport leaders at Orlando International Airport announced a new plan Tuesday to try to make the enrollment process for TSA pre-check easier and faster.

El Potro Grill & Bar, a Mexican restaurant chain in Orlando, is gearing up to officially open a new location in the Belle Isle Shopping Center on Friday, according to a news release.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando International Airport continues to see a rebound in passenger traffic for the fifth consecutive month of 2022. According to airport officials, nearly 4.4 million domestic and international passengers traveled through OIA in May, an increase of 17%. International traffic also saw an increase, with 465,811 passengers arriving and departing. Read: Orlando International Airport announces concessions offerings for new Terminal CAirport officials said that the recent easing of international COVID-19 travel restrictions could further increase international numbers for the remainder of 2022. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 South Terminal C Channel 9 got a sneak peek at Orlando International Airport's new South Terminal C project on Monday.

(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, File) (Chris O'Meara)JetBlue Airways has agreed to buy Spirit Airlines for $3.8 billion and create the nation’s fifth-largest airline if the deal can win approval from antitrust regulators. The agreement Thursday capped a months-long bidding war and arrives one day after Spirit's attempt to merge with fellow budget carrier Frontier Airlines fell apart. Spirit Airlines regularly ends up as the worst, or close to the worst, when airlines are ranked by the rate of consumer complaints. JetBlue and Spirit will continue to operate independently until the agreement is approved by regulators and Spirit shareholders, with their separate loyalty programs and customer accounts. If the deal doesn’t close due to antitrust reasons, JetBlue will pay Spirit a reverse break-up fee of $70 million and pay Spirit shareholders $400 million, minus any amounts paid to the shareholders prior to termination.

(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, File) (Chris O'Meara)JetBlue Airways has agreed to buy Spirit Airlines for $3.8 billion and create the nation’s fifth-largest airline if the deal can win approval from antitrust regulators. The agreement Thursday capped a months-long bidding war and arrives one day after Spirit's attempt to merge with fellow budget carrier Frontier Airlines fell apart. JetBlue and Spirit will continue to operate independently until the agreement is approved by regulators and Spirit shareholders, with their separate loyalty programs and customer accounts. If the deal doesn’t close due to antitrust reasons, JetBlue will pay Spirit a reverse break-up fee of $70 million and pay Spirit shareholders $400 million, minus any amounts paid to the shareholders prior to termination. Spirit and Frontier announced their plan to merge in February, and Spirit's board stood by that deal even after JetBlue made a higher-priced offer in April.

Budget Airlines Consolidation FILE - A line of Spirit Airlines jets sit on the tarmac at Orlando International Airport on May 20, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. Spirit Airlines shareholders could pick a preferred buyer for their airline Wednesday, July 27, 2022, when they are scheduled to vote on one of the offers for the budget carrier. Shareholders appear to be leaning against the bid preferred by Spirit’s board, a merger offer from Frontier Airlines that is currently worth more than $2.6 billion. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, File) (Chris O'Meara)JetBlue has agreed to buy Spirit Airlines for $3.8 billion in a deal that would create the nation's fifth largest airline if approved by U.S. regulators. The agreement Thursday comes a day after Spirit's attempt to merge with Frontier Airlines fell apart.

Budget Airlines Consolidation FILE - A line of Spirit Airlines jets sit on the tarmac at Orlando International Airport on May 20, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. Spirit Airlines shareholders could pick a preferred buyer for their airline Wednesday, July 27, 2022, when they are scheduled to vote on one of the offers for the budget carrier. Shareholders appear to be leaning against the bid preferred by Spirit’s board, a merger offer from Frontier Airlines that is currently worth more than $2.6 billion. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, File) (Chris O'Meara)JetBlue is buying Spirit Airlines for $3.8 billion, creating the nation's fifth largest airline. JetBlue will acquire Spirit for $33.50 per share in cash, including a prepayment of $2.50 per share in cash payable once Spirit stockholders approve the transaction.

Video: Orlando International Airport spotlights impact of Biden's infrastructure bill The conference highlighted President Joe Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure bill. (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando International Airport hosted a major new conference in its new Terminal C on Friday afternoon. WATCH: OIA awarded $50M in federal funds to enhance Terminal CThe conference highlighted President Joe Biden’s bipartisan infrastructure bill. The White House infrastructure coordinator was joined by Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, Sen. Vic Torres and unionized airport workers. Photos: Orlando International Airport spotlights impact of Biden’s infrastructure billExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Orlando International Airport spotlights impact of Biden’s infrastructure billThey spoke about how the bill will benefit Central Florida and the Sunshine State as a whole.

Starting Sunday, Brightline crews will ramp up test runs along a portion of newly double-tracked rail corridor in Brevard County — with trains accelerating up to 79 mph, according to News 6 partner Florida Today.

Video: OIA awarded $50M in federal funds to enhance Terminal C OIA has been awarded $50 million for its expansion of the new 15-gate terminal. (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. Orlando International Airport CEO Kevin Thibault has his sights set on the next stage of the air hub’s expansion — something that starts with the September debut of the new Terminal C and beyond. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 South Terminal C Channel 9 got a sneak peek at Orlando International Airport's new South Terminal C project on Monday. Video: Hawaiian Airlines to suspend flights to and from Orlando International Airport Hawaiian Airlines plans to suspend service at Orlando International Airport.

Orlando International Airport is set to improve visual communications at its new Terminal C facility with the implementation of video walls and digital displays, according to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando International Airport has announced which airlines will move to Terminal C.The terminal will open over a two-week period, with international operations beginning Sept. 19 and domestic operations beginning Sept. 26. The following airlines will be moving to the terminal later this year:READ: ‘C’ you soon: Here’s when Terminal C at OIA opensAer LingusAzulBreeze AirwaysBritish AirwaysEmiratesGolIcelandairJetBlueLufthansaNorseREAD: OIA awarded $50M in federal funds to enhance Terminal CLast week, the airport was awarded $50 million for its expansion of the new 15-gate terminal. The project will increase capacity, provide ADA-compliant facilities and more. It will also generate 400 construction jobs, 500 permanent airport jobs and an estimated 2,000 regional jobs. READ: Orlando International Airport announces concessions offerings for new Terminal COrlando International Airport (MCO) has announced the airlines moving to Terminal C later this year.

Video: Hawaiian Airlines to suspend flights to and from Orlando International Airport Hawaiian Airlines plans to suspend service at Orlando International Airport. (James Tutten, WFTV.com/WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — After more than a year of serving the Orlando area, Hawaiian Airlines plans to suspend service at Orlando International Airport. The move comes after Hawaiian Airlines decided to realign their network to help meet demand for the recent resurgence of international travel. WATCH: Victims identified after deadly rollover crash at Orlando International AirportThe final departure from Orlando is set for Sept. 7, and the final return flight will be Sept. 8. WATCH: Thousands of travelers pack Orlando International Airport on the 4th of JulyClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

Once again we are pinpointing storms into the afternoon on Sunday.

Carolyn Fennel, senior director of public affairs for Orlando International Airport, said the airline cited staffing issues and current fuel prices as reasons for the suspensions.

Video: Victims identified after deadly rollover crash at Orlando International Airport There were major delays Saturday morning at the Orlando International Airport after two people were killed in a crash. (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — There were major delays Saturday morning at the Orlando International Airport after two people were killed in a crash. WATCH: Deadly crash near OIA causes delays for travelers heading to the airportOrlando police said the crash happened around 2:30 a.m. on Jeff Fuqua and Semoran boulevards. Hours later, traffic at the airport was causing major delays for travelers trying not to miss their flights. Photos: Victims identified after deadly rollover crash at Orlando International AirportExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Victims identified after deadly rollover crash at Orlando International AirportChannel 9 could see some people stuck in traffic getting out of their cars and trying to walk to the airport.

A fatal crash near Orlando International Airport Saturday morning forced the closure of lanes and slowed traffic on Jeff Fuqua Boulevard heading toward OIA, according to the Orlando Police Department.

The New Jersey woman who appeared in a viral video riding a motorized suitcase through Orlando International Airport while being pursued by a police officer has entered into a plea agreement with prosecutors, court records show.

Terminal C Terminal C at OIA. (wftv)ORLANDO, Fla. — Money from President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help further fund the Terminal C expansion at Orlando International Airport. OIA has been awarded $50 million for its expansion of the new 15-gate terminal. READ: ‘C’ you soon: Here’s when Terminal C at OIA opensThe project will increase capacity, provide ADA-compliant facilities and more. READ: Orlando International Airport announces concessions offerings for new Terminal CExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 South Terminal C Channel 9 got a sneak peek at Orlando International Airport's new South Terminal C project on Monday.

VIDEO: Thousands of travelers pack Orlando International Airport on the 4th of July Whether they were strolling, rolling, or walking in, travelers flooded Orlando International Airport this Independence Day. (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — Whether they were strolling, rolling, or walking in, travelers flooded Orlando International Airport this Independence Day. READ: Fourth of July shooting: 6 killed, more than two dozen hurt at Illinois paradeOrlando International Airport officials say the busiest days of this holiday travel period are already behind them. It’s a busy #4thofJuly travel period! READ: Hundreds march across downtown Orlando for abortion rightsAccording to airport officials, they’re expecting to see more than 1.5 million passengers over the course of the entire holiday travel period, which continues through Wednesday.

The fireworks are still a few days away, but travel for the July Fourth weekend is off to a booming start.

With the Fourth of July holiday weekend coming up, travel experts are predicting a massive increase in the number of travelers.

A few flights have already been delayed at Orlando International Airport on Friday morning. Be prepared if you’re flying out for the Fourth of July weekend, because you may run into a problem. READ: These laws go into effect in Florida on FridayWe’ve recently seen massive flight cancellations. LaLonde-Brewington’s connecting flight was delayed to Orlando. READ: AAA’s ‘Tow to Go’ returns Independence Day weekendA travel expert said it is best to pay extra for a direct flight.

A planned Disney Springs station is no more

Disney announced today that the Brightline rail station project that was planned to open at Disney Springs, has now been cancelled. The Brightline high-speed rail station was originally set to connect guests from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Disney Springs. “As many people who are involved in this project are aware, the new route configuration does not support a Disney Springs station and as a result, we don’t anticipate being part of this project,” Maehrer said. The route originally was designed to bypass Orlando and go straight to Walt Disney World from Orlando Internationally Airport (MCO) before following I-4 to Tampa. Due to this change in plans from Brightline, Disney has pulled the plug on the new project that was originally slated to be complete in 2026.

As travel is ramping up for the Fourth of July holiday, staffing shortages are causing problems for some of the nation’s largest airlines.

A man was arrested at Orlando International Airport Friday after he molested a teen girl on a flight from Los Angeles, according to the U.S. Marshals.

Video: Orlando International Airport welcomes new low-fare airline Breeze Airways A new low-cost airline is adding Orlando to its list of destinations. (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — A new low-cost airline is adding Orlando to its list of destinations. Orlando is the 20th nonstop destination Breeze offers from Charleston. Photos: Orlando International Airport welcomes new low-fare airline Breeze AirwaysExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Orlando International Airport welcomes new low-fare airline Breeze Airways“We’re excited to connect our largest base, Charleston, with our newest destination,Orlando,” said Danny Cox, Breeze’s vice president of guest empowerment and airport operations. This new service to explore the charms of Charleston provides that experience,” said Kevin Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

The bidding war over Spirit Airlines is heating up again.

Used cooking oil collected from restaurants near Orlando area attractions is being collected and converted into a fuel that can help fly the tourists who visit there.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando International Airport continues to see a rebound in passenger traffic for the fourth consecutive month of 2022. According to airport officials, nearly 4.3 million domestic and international passengers traveled through OIA in April, an increase of 31.5% from the same period in 2021. “These solid April numbers show the importance that domestic and international business and leisure travelers have placed on travel, even during challenging economic times,” Thibault said. Read: OIA passenger numbers continue to rebound for third straight month of 2022Airport officials also saw the continued increase in cargo moving through OIA in April. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 South Terminal C Channel 9 got a sneak peek at Orlando International Airport's new South Terminal C project on Monday.

We are cranking up the thermostat even further Saturday. Highs top out in the upper 90s later in the day. With the humidity factored in it will feel more like 100-110 degrees.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando International Airport released a statement after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lifted a federal mandate that required international visitors to test negative for COVID-19 before coming to the United States. “The lifting of international travel COVID testing restrictions into the U.S. will bring back international visitors to Orlando and Central Florida at an accelerated pace,” says Vicki Jaramillo, senior director of marketing and air service development for the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “Prior to the pandemic, international traffic made up almost 15% of our overall traffic as compared to 5% last year.”READ: US lifts COVID-19 test requirement for international travelAirport leaders said Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings asked the Biden administration to lift the restrictions. Orlando International Airport sees big crowds during Easter holiday weekendClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live. ©2022 Cox Media Group

The Biden administration announced that, as of midnight on June 12th, international travelers coming to the United States will no longer need a negative COVID-19 test to get into the country.

JetBlue-Spirit FLE - A line of Spirit Airlines jets sit on the tarmac at the Orlando International Airport on May 20, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. The bidding war over Spirit Airlines continues, with JetBlue raising its offer for the discount carrier just days after Frontier boosted its bid. Spirit shareholders are also scheduled to vote Friday on Frontier's offer. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, File) (Chris O'Meara)Spirit Airlines, the target of a budget airline bidding war, is postponing a Friday shareholder vote on whether to accept one of those buyout offers after a flurry of counter proposals from JetBlue and Frontier Airlines. The bidding war for Spirit has heated up in the past few days, with JetBlue attempting to allay concerns that the U.S. would block its acquisition.

Spirit Airlines, the target of a budget airline bidding war, is postponing a Friday vote on whether to accept one of those buyout offers after a flurry of counter proposals from JetBlue and Frontier Airlines.

The New Jersey woman who appeared in a viral video riding a motorized suitcase through Orlando International Airport while being pursued by a police officer has been re-arrested on a warrant, court records show.

JetBlue-Spirit FLE - A line of Spirit Airlines jets sit on the tarmac at the Orlando International Airport on May 20, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. The bidding war over Spirit Airlines continues, with JetBlue raising its offer for the discount carrier just days after Frontier boosted its bid. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara, File) (Chris O'Meara)The bidding war over Spirit Airlines is ramping up again with JetBlue boosting its offer for the discount carrier just days after rival Frontier upped its own bid for Spirit. JetBlue said Monday that it will now provide a $350 million reverse break-up payable to Spirit if a deal between the two isn't completed for antitrust reasons. JetBlue's announcement comes less than a week after Frontier Airlines added a $250 million termination fee to its proposal.

The bidding war over Spirit Airlines is ramping up again with JetBlue boosting its offer for the discount carrier just days after rival Frontier upped its own bid for Spirit.

Traveling to Tampa just got a little bit easier. The U.S. Department of Transportation Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements Program allotted a $15,875,000 grant for a Brightline extension connecting Orlando International Airport to Tampa. AdvertisementThe money is set to help fund preliminary engineering activities and environmental approvals that are needed to build the rail system. The project has a total funding of $31,750,000. TWITTER SOCIALTRAVELERS WILL SOON BE ABLE TO SKIP I-4 TRAFFICBrightline was awarded $15,875,000 to begin work on connecting Orlando and Tampa.

VIDEO: Busier than normal travel weekend expected at Orlando International Airport this Memorial Day VIDEO: Busier than normal travel weekend expected at Orlando International Airport this Memorial Day (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — People all across the country will begin traveling to their Memorial Day weekend destination, and that could mean some big crowds at our airports. Orlando International Airport expects longer lines for everything from TSA check-in to parking. Nearly 68,000 travelers are expected to pass through OIA on Saturday. OIA officials said Memorial Day weekend is typically not a busy travel weekend at the airport, but this year is different. Read: TIMELINE: 10 homes damaged, 5 destroyed by wildfire in Brevard CountyOfficials recommend that you check your flight status before heading to the airport.

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Orlando International Airport is preparing for a busy Memorial Day weekend. Nearly 800,000 passengers are expected to pass through the airport over the six-day travel period. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority said this represents an 11% increase over Memorial Day 2021 and is only 10,000 departures short of 2019 pre-pandemic levels. READ: From flatscreens to trucks, Orange County Comptroller’s online auction is LIVE! “Traditionally, Memorial Day has not been the busiest travel period at Orlando International, however, we are staffing up and are prepared for more passengers this year than usual,” says Kevin Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

The airport announced 24 food offerings coming to the new terminal, with several local businesses opening locations.

ORLANDO, Fla. — The Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra will return to Orlando International Airport to perform for the first time in nearly three years. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, along with the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, is welcoming back a favorite holiday tradition. The Liberty Weekend patriotic concert will return to OIA for the first time since 2019. This year’s event, themed “Let Freedom Ring.” will be held on Saturday, June 18, in advance of the Fourth of July holiday. The award honors a distinguished veteran for their service and contributions to aviation, the country and the Central Florida community.

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando International Airport is seeing a rebound in passenger traffic for the third straight month of 2022. During the first three months of 2022, Orlando International Airport saw 11.6 million passengers, a 65% increase from the same time period in 2021. The airport said domestic passenger traffic was up 55% for the first quarter of 2022, with a total of 10,680,945 travelers. For the month of March, traffic was up 45.6% with a total of 4,554,690 passengers, making it the third-busiest month ever at the airport. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 South Terminal C Channel 9 got a sneak peek at Orlando International Airport's new South Terminal C project on Monday.

VIDEO: SEE: Brightline high-speed train arrives at new OIA station for the first time Brightline high-speed train arrives at new OIA station for the first timeORLANDO, Fla. — For the first time, Brightline drove one of its trains into the new station at Orlando International Airport. While there were no passengers on board this time, it was an important step toward bringing passengers into the airport. The high-speed train that’s already been running in South Florida is set to bring passengers from West Palm Beach through Brevard County and across to OIA sometime next year. READ: Boeing Starliner ready for Thursday launchThe train, named Bright Blue 2, has been in Orlando since February. READ: ‘C’ you soon: Here’s when Terminal C at OIA opensThe project in Orlando is about 80% complete.

Brightline will begin carrying passengers from Orlando to Miami in 2023.

Frontier Airlines posted a photo of a baby delivered mid-flight on a plane heading to Orlando in a widely-shared social media post.

Orlando International Airport CEO announces Terminal C will open starting Sept. 19, 2022.

After a federal judge in Florida voided a national on airplanes and mass transit, masks are now optional at Orlando International Airport.

Orlando International Airport is in the state’s lead as Florida airports continue to rank in the nation’s top 10 every year for where passengers are most often stopped at checkpoints with a gun.

Why did this alligator cross the road? Maybe it was late for its flight.