What To Know
- Orlando Airport features a plethora of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a 24-hour food court and a children’s play area.
- Based on the various factors examined, it is clear that Orlando International Airport is larger than Tampa International Airport in terms of size, capacity, and passenger traffic.
- While Tampa Airport is a substantial airport in its own right, Orlando Airport emerges as the more extensive and well-equipped hub.
When planning a trip to Florida, travelers often debate which airport is more convenient for their needs: Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Tampa International Airport (TPA). Both airports serve millions of passengers annually, but which one is truly the larger? This blog post delves into a comprehensive comparison of Orlando Airport and Tampa Airport, examining their size, capacity, and other key factors to determine which one reigns supreme.
Airport Size
The size of an airport is typically measured by its land area. Orlando International Airport boasts a sprawling campus of 5,389 acres, making it one of the largest airports in the United States by land area. Tampa International Airport, on the other hand, occupies a more modest 4,300 acres.
Terminal Capacity
The number of terminals and gates reflects the airport’s capacity to handle passenger traffic. Orlando Airport features four main terminals and 129 gates, providing ample space for airlines and passengers alike. Tampa Airport has three terminals and 94 gates, offering a smaller but still substantial capacity.
Runway Configuration
The number and length of runways are crucial for airport operations. Orlando Airport has four parallel runways, including one of the longest in the world at 13,001 feet. Tampa Airport has three runways, with the longest measuring 12,500 feet.
Passenger Traffic
The volume of passengers passing through an airport is a key indicator of its size and importance. In 2022, Orlando Airport welcomed over 50 million passengers, making it the tenth busiest airport in the United States. Tampa Airport handled approximately 23 million passengers during the same period, ranking as the 27th busiest airport.
Cargo Operations
Both Orlando Airport and Tampa Airport handle significant cargo operations. Orlando Airport has a dedicated cargo terminal that processes over 1 million tons of cargo annually. Tampa Airport also has a cargo facility, but it is smaller and handles less volume.
Amenities and Services
Modern airports offer a wide range of amenities and services for passengers. Orlando Airport features a plethora of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, including a 24-hour food court and a children’s play area. Tampa Airport also has a variety of amenities, but it is generally less extensive than Orlando Airport.
Ground Transportation
Access to various ground transportation options is essential for airport convenience. Orlando Airport is served by a network of rental car companies, taxis, and ride-sharing services. It also has a dedicated rail station that connects to downtown Orlando and other destinations. Tampa Airport offers similar ground transportation options but on a smaller scale.
Takeaways: The Verdict
Based on the various factors examined, it is clear that Orlando International Airport is larger than Tampa International Airport in terms of size, capacity, and passenger traffic. While Tampa Airport is a substantial airport in its own right, Orlando Airport emerges as the more extensive and well-equipped hub. Whether you are a frequent flyer or a first-time visitor, Orlando Airport offers a more comprehensive travel experience.
Common Questions and Answers
1. Which airport has more terminals?
Orlando Airport has four terminals, while Tampa Airport has three.
2. Which airport has more gates?
Orlando Airport has 129 gates, while Tampa Airport has 94 gates.
3. Which airport has the longest runway?
Orlando Airport has the longest runway at 13,001 feet.
4. Which airport is closer to downtown Orlando?
Orlando Airport is located just 6 miles from downtown Orlando, while Tampa Airport is approximately 60 miles away.
5. Which airport has better shopping and dining options?
Orlando Airport has a wider variety of shops and restaurants compared to Tampa Airport.
