Reserve Parking program rolled out at Orlando International Airport

ORLANDO, Fla. - A new Reserve Parking program at Orlando International Airport (MCO) is now active, the airport says.

The City Beautiful continues to welcome a record number of travelers to MCO, and according to survey data, local residents make up 30% of all passengers. That represents a jump from 20% a decade ago, according to officials.

Last month, MCO opened three new surface lots to respond to parking needs, which are accessible with E-Pass and SunPass Plus. In total, the airport says it now has more than 2,000 new parking spaces compared to last year.

Currently, the Reserve Parking program is only operational on the fourth floor of the Terminal C garage. Space is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis for approximately 715 spots. 

Travelers at Orlando International Airport have long said that parking can be a hassle. 

"Traffic is a bit of a problem," said visitor Tom Evers.

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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 at 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. The cost is $32 per day. Airport officials released an instructional video here.

"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."

The airport currently has about 24,500 parking spaces. Visitors said the reserved spaces may make a real difference to travelers who don't want to leave their parking plans to chance. 

"Especially holiday weekends!" said traveler Brittany Heck. "The parking garages are always full, even economy. Sometimes, they have an overflow economy, so I think that would be a good idea. They'd probably make a lot of money from it."

Airport officials said if successful, they would eventually expand reserved parking to other airport garages.