Typically during cold and flu season the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority increases the terminal and airside cleaning schedules at the Orlando International Airport.
Due to an outbreak of respiratory disease caused by the coronavirus (CDC website) detected in almost 70 locations internationally including in the United States, additional measures to minimize exposure possibilities for passengers and employees have been implemented by the airport:
Installation of hand sanitizer stations throughout the airport, as a response to the cold and flu season.
Increased frequency of cleaning at all high touch point areas, including escalator handrails, elevators, curbside, seating areas, tables, restrooms, and food court areas.
During regular and emergency cleaning of the facilities, MCO has specialized equipment (KaiVac and Zymec machines) that deep cleans areas such as restrooms, Federal Inspection Stations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection area. The Zymec is a fogger for the space. The KaiVac sprays a disinfectant throughout the targeted area.
Increased frequency in cleaning of the airport shuttle buses, to include disinfecting of all passenger areas and driver surfaces.
In addition to the cleaning enhancements, Enhanced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits have been created for first responders for emergency calls. Kits include protective eyewear, face masks and gowns.
The Airport asks the general public to not be alarmed if they see Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting(ARFF) crews wearing the above mentioned protective gear.
Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention protocol, this protective equipment helps minimize any opportunities of response team members to contract the cold or flu when coming in contact with patients.
With more than 50 million annual passengers, Orlando International Airport is the busiest airport in Florida and 10th busiest in the U.S. MCO is currently engaged in a $4.2 billion Capital Improvement Program to increase capacity and enhance customer convenience. Orlando International has air service to more than 150 destinations.