Gate Link Replacement Project To Cause Delays For UK Passengers At MCO For 18 Months

Anyone who has ever flown into Orlando International Airport’s Terminal A from the UK for a Disney World or Universal trip from the UK will have fond memories of the Gate Link. Of stepping onto what many call the first ride of the trip, and hearing Buddy Dyer’s voice: “If you’re a visitor, we’re thrilled that you’re here.” Well, not quite as thrilled as the person on the tram, but from the 3rd December, that’s all going to change.

On the 3rd December 2025, the Gate Link begins a huge refurbishment programme that is likely to bring disruption to UK passengers landing in Terminal A and B. Virgin Atlantic flights from all UK airports land in Terminal A, and

Gate Link Replacement Project

The Gate Link Replacement Project at Orlando International Airport is will begin next month and last for over a year until Autumn 2027. This means that UK passengers landing in this terminal will face potential delays.

The £200m ($253 million) plus project is aimed to make journeys between security and the gates smoother, faster, and more reliable. The current trams are being replaced with brand new Mitsubishi vehicles as part of an upgrade to infrastructure. This is part of a much larger airport modernisation programme at MCO.

Here are the key details for the Gate Link Replacement Project and the new upgrades coming to the tramline:

• New running surfaces

• Updated power and operating systems

• Better communication networks

• New platform screen doors

• A full overhaul of safety technology

Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) said:

Only Affecting Virgin Atlantic

Only Virgin Atlantic fly into Terminal A from the UK. All other airlines flying into MCO direct from UK airports fly into the newer Terminal C building including, British Airways and Aer Lingus.

Virgin Atlantic customers can expect minimal delays. MCO have confirmed that during daytime travel hours, customers can expect a delay of only a few minutes. This is because a tram will remain running throughout the day.

What To Expect And How To Plan Around It

A very short delay when transferring from the gates to the main terminal building will affect all passengers. However, MCO will be placing additional guest service ambassadors, more wayfinding signage, and continuous customer support. This should help people exit the airport smoothly, especially after a long-haul flight.

Occasional Shuttle Buses

During certain times, particularly overnight, passengers may need to move by shuttle bus instead of tram. This may affect late night arrivals or very early departures.

Add 30 Minutes for Pick-Ups

If you’re using a rental car, hotel shuttle, private transfer or rideshare (Lyft/Uber), the airport recommends allowing an extra 30 minutes for pick-up or drop-off.

Travel Smart: MCO Advice

MCO have issued advice for travellers to follow during this 18 month period. It is called the 3-2-1 rule and states:

After the recent delays following the government shutdown and Aer Lingus strikes, good planning advice for all UK visitors heading to Florida is not to plan too much on your travel day.

Long Term Benefits

Once complete, the new system will offer major improvements:

• Smoother and more reliable operations thanks to upgraded traction systems

• Advanced safety features, including modern controls and monitoring technology

• Better sustainability, with energy efficient vehicles and systems.

After the improvements, visitors arriving after 2027, the journey from security to the gates should be notably faster and more seamless.

Part Of A Bigger Airport Transformation

The Gate Link Replacement Project is part of GOAA’s huge 2025 - 2030 Capital Improvement Programme, totalling $5.9 billion (£4.6 billion).

The full plan includes improvements including:

• Expanded parking

• Upgraded baggage systems

• Newly modernised gates

• Renovated Terminals A and B

• More seating, restrooms, shops, and restaurants

• Continued improvements to Terminal C

For UK holidaymakers, these improvements will make Orlando’s airport experience feel more modern, less crowded, and easier to navigate when completed. But, for the next 18 months there are going to be delays as the transformation happens.

Magic In A Minute

Orlando International Airport is beginning a Gate Link Replacement Project that is going to cause delays to UK Virgin Atlantic passengers landing at MCO for the next 18 months. Be sure not to over plan on travel day to beat the impact delays can have on your trip.