What To Know
- When Orlando International Airport became an international airport, it adopted the MCO code to distinguish it from other airports in the region.
- It is a testament to the airport’s military origins and its role as a major transportation hub for the Central Florida region.
- As the airport continues to serve as a gateway to the world, the MCO code will continue to be an essential part of its identity.
The Orlando International Airport, a bustling hub for travelers, is widely known by its airport code MCO. But why is Orlando airport called MCO? This blog post delves into the fascinating history behind the airport’s enigmatic code.
The Birth of MCO: A Military Legacy
During World War II, the Orlando area became a strategic military base. The U.S. Army Air Corps established a training facility and airfield in 1942, known as McCoy Air Force Base. The name honored Colonel Michael Norman McCoy, a renowned aviator who died during a training exercise.
From Military Base to Civilian Airport
After the war, McCoy Air Force Base was decommissioned and transferred to the city of Orlando. In 1960, the airport was renamed Orlando International Airport, but its military heritage remained in its airport code.
MCO as an International Identifier
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) assigns three-letter codes to airports worldwide. When Orlando International Airport became an international airport, it adopted the MCO code to distinguish it from other airports in the region.
The Significance of the MCO Code
The MCO airport code serves several important purposes:
- Identification: It uniquely identifies Orlando International Airport in global aviation systems.
- Routing: Airlines use the code to route flights and baggage to the correct destination.
- Convenience: MCO is a concise and easy-to-remember code for travelers.
The McCoy Connection: A Lasting Legacy
Despite the airport’s civilian status, the name McCoy continues to be associated with the airport. The Michael N. McCoy Terminal, completed in 2017, honors the legacy of the air base’s namesake. Additionally, the airport’s official logo features a stylized MCO with a silhouette of an airplane, paying homage to its military roots.
Beyond the Airport: MCO in Popular Culture
The MCO airport code has become so synonymous with Orlando that it has made its way into popular culture. It has been referenced in songs, movies, and TV shows, cementing its place in the city’s identity.
The Future of MCO
As Orlando International Airport continues to grow and evolve, the MCO airport code will likely remain an enduring symbol of its history and global significance. It is a testament to the airport’s military origins and its role as a major transportation hub for the Central Florida region.
The Bottom Line: Unveiling the Enigma of MCO
The MCO airport code may seem like a mere three-letter identifier, but it carries a rich history and significant meaning. It serves as a reminder of the airport’s military legacy, its international status, and its enduring connection to the city of Orlando. As the airport continues to serve as a gateway to the world, the MCO code will continue to be an essential part of its identity.
FAQ
1. What does MCO stand for?
MCO does not stand for anything; it is simply an airport code assigned by the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
2. Why is Orlando airport called McCoy?
The airport was originally named McCoy Air Force Base after Colonel Michael Norman McCoy, a renowned aviator.
3. Is MCO a military airport?
No, Orlando International Airport is a civilian airport. However, it was once a military base known as McCoy Air Force Base.
4. What is the largest terminal at MCO?
The Michael N. McCoy Terminal is the largest terminal at Orlando International Airport.
5. How many runways does MCO have?
Orlando International Airport has four runways.
6. What is the busiest airline at MCO?
Southwest Airlines is the busiest airline at Orlando International Airport.
7. What is the closest hotel to MCO?
The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is the closest hotel to MCO.
8. Is there a train station at MCO?
Yes, the SunRail station is located at Orlando International Airport.
9. How far is MCO from downtown Orlando?
Orlando International Airport is approximately 10 miles from downtown Orlando.
10. What is the name of the airport’s official logo?
The airport’s official logo is called the “MCO Flyway.
