Orlando International Airport (MCO), one of the busiest travel hubs in the United States, is facing a major challenge this holiday season, causing thousands of Walt Disney World Resort guests to abandon their vacation.

Update: FlightAware is now reporting over 100 delays with some cancellations, with more being reported towards the end of the hour (12:51 p.m.).

Thanksgiving travel chaos hits Orlando International Airport: Disney World guests affected

Over 100 flights were disrupted, leaving hundreds of travelers in limbo. For many, these delays mean their long-awaited Disney World vacation is up in the air – both figuratively and literally. Thanksgiving week, known for its record-breaking travel numbers, has once again proven to be a logistical challenge for airlines and travelers alike. Here’s how the delays are affecting Disney World visitors, what’s causing the disruptions, and how you can adapt to save your dream vacation.

Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest times for travel, with millions of Americans taking to the skies. There were reportedly over 50,000 flights scheduled across the US last Tuesday alone, and the numbers have only increased throughout the week. Orlando International Airport, a key gateway for visitors to Disney World, was hit particularly hard.

FlightAware reports 93 delayed flights during the MCO today, including one cancellation. Major airlines such as Southwest, Delta and Spirit were hit hardest. While delays are common during peak travel times, this year disruptions will be exacerbated by severe weather in the Great Lakes region and impacts on the entire national air traffic network.

Weather problems are adding to the delays

One of the main contributors to the widespread flight delays is a major lake-effect snowstorm that is wreaking havoc in parts of the Midwest and Northeast. Areas including northeast Ohio, northwestern Pennsylvania and southwestern New York have reported snowfall ranging from 12 to 24 inches, with nearly three feet of snow falling in Erie, Pennsylvania. This has led to road closures, airport closures and cascading delays across the country.

Flights departing from or connecting to cities such as Pittsburgh, Philadelphia and New York are experiencing significant disruption, with delays in Orlando reflecting these challenges. Even travelers who don’t fly through snowy regions can find their plans derailed as delayed planes trigger a domino effect throughout the system.

Impact on Disney World Vacations

For families and Disney fans, these delays come as an unwelcome surprise. Many travelers plan their Disney World vacation months, if not years, in advance, booking park reservations, dining experiences and exclusive events. Flight delays and cancellations can throw these carefully crafted itineraries into chaos, forcing visitors to miss park days or cancel reservations.

To make matters worse, last-minute changes can be challenging due to Disney World’s reservation system and limited park capacity. Guests who arrive late may not be able to access their desired park as reservations often fill up weeks in advance during peak season.

Here’s how to stay prepared and save your trip

While flight delays can be overwhelming, a little preparation and flexibility can go a long way in saving your vacation. Here are some practical tips for navigating uncertainty:

1. Stay informed:
   Sign up for real-time flight alerts from your airline and monitor your flight status via the airline app or website. By keeping an eye on changes, you can respond quickly to cancellations or delays.
2. Adjust your plans:
   If you experience significant delays, contact Disney Guest Services as soon as possible to explain your situation. Although changes cannot be guaranteed, Disney is known for accommodating guests experiencing unforeseen travel issues.
3. Be flexible with park reservations:
   If you expect to arrive later than planned, check the My Disney Experience app to see if the park is available the same day. Although this rarely occurs during peak season, cancellations sometimes free up spots.
4. Be prepared for long waiting times:
   Flight delays often lead to longer stays at the airport. Pack a travel kit with snacks, entertainment, chargers, and other essentials to make the wait more enjoyable.
5. Consider travel insurance:
   If you don’t already have insurance, travel insurance can be a lifesaver in these situations. Travel delays, cancellations and unexpected expenses are often covered, giving you peace of mind.
6. Check your return flight:
   Since travel after Thanksgiving is expected to be just as hectic, it’s important to keep an eye on your return flight. Make sure you have contingency plans in place in case delays impact your departure from Orlando.

Looking ahead

While flight disruptions are frustrating, they don’t have to ruin your Disney World vacation. With a little strategic planning and a positive attitude, you can enjoy the magic of the parks even if you arrive later than expected. As weather conditions stabilize and airlines work to clear the backlog of delayed flights, patience and preparation will be your best allies.

Whether you’re traveling to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, or another Disney destination, staying flexible and informed will help you get the most out of your trip – even if your travel plans don’t go as smoothly as you’d hoped. Have a safe trip and may your Disney dreams come true!

Have your Disney World vacation plans ever been thrown into such disarray during peak travel season? Tell us your story in the comments below.