Airport officials anticipate big travel numbers despite omicron concerns

ORLANDO, Fla. — The holiday travel season at Orlando International Airport officially kicks into high gear Friday.

Airport leaders say traffic volumes this year could be close to pre-pandemic levels.

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VIDEO: Holiday Parking Issues at Orlando International Airport

OIA CEO Phil Brown says if you’re planning to fly out of Orlando, come early.

“Please come early. We’ve learned from the Thanksgiving holiday, that we’re going to be challenged with parking,” Brown said.

Read: Officials warn not to let guard down after omicron variant found in Orange County water

More than 2.6 million passengers are expected to pass through OIA over the 19-day travel period.

That’s just 3% shy of the number of passengers for the same period in 2019.

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“We’re pretty pleased with the recovery we made. If you were talking to me in January of 2021 I don’t know I would’ve expected this,” Brown said.

Officials say Saturday will be the busiest travel day with nearly 157,000 passengers expected to pass through.

“Pack your patience, and remember, this is a holiday season, so be in good cheer,” Brown said.

VIDEO: Holiday Parking Issues at Orlando International Airport VIDEO: Holiday Parking Issues at Orlando International Airport (Kirstin Delgado/WFTV)

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