✈️ What’s Going On With the MCO “Monorail”? Orlando Airport Tram Construction Guide (2025–2027)
- Practically Perfect Pixie Dust
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Updated for 2025: MCO has confirmed major tram (“monorail”) closures and construction starting December 3, affecting Southwest, Delta, and more.
If you’re flying into Orlando for a magical Disney or Universal vacation in late 2025 and beyond, there’s a pretty big update you’ll want to know about before you land. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is beginning a major two-year project to replace its aging gate-link trams — the little “monorails” that whisk you from the main terminal to your gate.
This means some temporary changes, overnight closures, and (yes!) shuttle buses. But don’t worry — here’s everything you need to know so your trip stays smooth and stress-free.
🛠️ What’s Happening at MCO?
Starting December 3, 2025, MCO launches its Gate Link Replacement Project, a two-year renovation of the trams servicing:
Airside 2 (Gates 100–129) — home to Southwest and Avelo
Airside 4 (Gates 70–99) — used by Delta, Air Canada, Frontier, Spirit, and others
These people-mover trams are decades old, so they’re getting a much-needed refresh. This work continues through late 2027.
🚇 Will the “Monorails” Be Closed?
Not completely — but there will be disruptions.
Here’s the quick breakdown:
🔹 Daytime: Reduced Service
During the day, MCO is keeping at least one tram operating at each airside, but:
Only one of two trams will run at Airside 2 starting December 3.
Expect longer lines, slower boarding, and general congestion.
🔹 Overnight: Full Tram Closures
From 11:00 PM to 4:00 AM, both Airside 2 and Airside 4 trams may shut down entirely. During these windows, everyone uses shuttle buses to move between the main terminal and the gates.
🔹 Shuttle Buses Running 24/7
Even during daytime tram operations, MCO is running backup buses around the clock to help manage traffic and keep guest flow moving.
Think of it as an airport hybrid system for a couple of years — trams when they can, buses whenever needed.
🧳 Who’s Affected Most?
✈️ Southwest & Avelo Flyers (Airside 2)
You’ll see the biggest impact first — reduced tram service starts here and will last roughly December 2025–December 2026.
✈️ Delta, Air Canada, Frontier, Spirit & More (Airside 4)
Expect major impacts during Phase 2 (December 2026–October 2027).
✈️ Terminal C / Brightline Travelers
Good news — your people mover (“Terminal Link”) isn’t part of this project.
🧚♀️ Pixie Dust Pro Tip: Build in Extra Time
Add at least 30 extra minutes to get from security to your gate, especially:
during peak morning or evening travel
on holidays
if you’re flying Southwest
or anytime after 10:00 PM
It’s one of those “better safe than sprinting through the terminal” moments.
📱 What You Should Do Before You Travel
A little prep goes a long way here:
✔️ Check your airline app before you fly
Gates may shift, especially during construction.
✔️ Watch for signage at MCO
The airport is increasing wayfinding signs and staffing — but expect crowds.
✔️ If you have mobility needs
Some bus transfers require standing, stairs, or longer walks than the trams. Let your airline know ahead of time so they can assist.
✔️ If you’re traveling with kids or strollers
The buses are roomy, but you’ll want to be prepared to fold strollers quickly when boarding.
🎢 How This Impacts Your Disney or Universal Vacation
Honestly? Probably not much — as long as you know about it ahead of time.
The biggest surprise for travelers is simply expecting the monorail and instead being directed toward a bus queue. Now that you know, you’re already ahead of the curve (gold star ✨).
If you’re arriving late at night, build in a bit of patience and plan a slower pace once you reach your resort. Disney’s Magical Express may be gone, but at least the buses at MCO will take you where you need to go!
🎄 Should You Be Worried for Holiday Travel?
If you're flying around December 2025, yes — expect slower trams, potential bus transfers, and heavier airport crowds.
If you’re flying earlier (Thanksgiving 2025 or before), you’ll miss the start of the project.
🧳 Final Thoughts
Travel days are always an adventure, but a little preparation makes all the difference. The bright side? Once this project is wrapped, MCO will have shiny, modern, smoother-running trams — and we’ll all benefit from the upgrade.
We travel to Orlando several times a year (usually on Southwest!), so this is absolutely something we’ll be experiencing firsthand. We’ll keep you in the loop on what we discover on our journeys so you’re always a step ahead on your next magical vacation.
Pixie Dust Hugs,
Bren, Lyn, and Kim 🧚♀️✨
