For millions, the journey to Walt Disney World starts at Orlando International Airport (MCO). Frequent visitors know the routine: land, get luggage, and head to Brightline, a rideshare, or the rental car center. On the return trip, it’s the same process, often complicated by security lines and delays at one of the busiest airports in the U.S. However, starting in 2026, MCO will undergo significant changes that will transform the traveler experience. Expect new terminal navigation, dining and shopping options, updated security identification requirements, and family-friendly programs. These are major infrastructure and operational shifts that will affect all travelers, making it crucial to understand them to avoid potential stress during your Disney experience.The Tram Situation Is About to Get ComplicatedOrlando International Airport started its $253 million Gate Link Replacement Project on December 3, 2025. This project will last throughout 2026 and beyond. It involves completely replacing the old people mover vehicles that transport passengers between gates 70 through 129 and Terminals A and B.If you’re flying with Air Canada, Avelo Airlines, Delta, Frontier Airlines, LATAM, Southwest, or Virgin Atlantic, this project will affect you. During the replacement, only one tram will be in operation instead of the usual two. This single tram will carry the passenger load that two normally manage, which will lead to longer wait times.Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the MagicTo help with the crowding, the airport will run shuttle buses around the clock. These buses will follow the same routes as the trams, but they are not as efficient. They depend on traffic, take longer to load, and offer a different experience compared to the automated tram system.The project will take about two years to complete. If you travel through MCO in 2026, be sure to allow extra time to move between your gate and the main terminal. What used to take five minutes might now take fifteen or twenty, especially during peak travel times when both the single tram and shuttle buses are full.Massive Dining and Retail Expansion Coming to OrlandoMCO is implementing a $26 million Concession Master Plan that will bring more than 40 new retail and dining locations to the airport. The expansion will roll out in three phases starting in summer 2026 and continuing through late 2028.For travelers in 2026, this means construction zones, closed storefronts, and reconfigured spaces throughout the terminals. The first phase openings will begin appearing in the summer, but the construction work necessary to prepare those spaces will be ongoing before then. Expect barriers, detours, and temporary closures of familiar shops and restaurants as the airport makes room for new concepts.Credit: FlyMCOThis expansion is part of a much larger transformation happening at MCO that includes changes to terminals, the tram service, the rental car lobby, and other infrastructure. While the end result should be a significantly improved airport experience with more food and shopping options, the transition period will create some chaos for travelers navigating spaces under construction.Build in Extra Time for EverythingWith tram replacements, ongoing construction, and changing storefronts, the key to navigating MCO in 2026 is to allow plenty of extra time. If you typically arrive two hours before a domestic flight, consider increasing it to 2.5 or 3 hours. For tight connections, add extra buffer time for slower gate-to-gate movement. Popular food spots may be closed for renovations, so be prepared to find alternatives. This is a year for careful planning and ample time estimates.Credit: Southwest AirlinesNew ID Requirements and Orlando Airport FeesStarting February 1, 2026, TSA will implement a $45 fee for travelers without a REAL ID or other acceptable ID at security checkpoints. If you arrive without proper identification, you must either pay the fee and go through the TSA ConfirmID process or forfeit your flight. TSA advises handling the fee online beforehand to avoid delays, but you can pay at the airport, which will slow down security screening. This policy aims to have travelers cover processing costs and to encourage obtaining REAL ID-compliant IDs, but it may create bottlenecks for unprepared travelers.Family-Friendly Security Lines Now AvailableIf you’re traveling with children ages 12 and under, MCO now offers family-friendly TSA lines as part of the “Families on the Fly” program. These dedicated lanes are designed specifically for travelers dealing with strollers, diaper bags, car seats, and all the other equipment that comes with moving small children through an airport.You don’t need to register in advance to use these family lanes. Just look for the signage when you approach security and get in the designated line if you’re traveling with young kids. The program aims to minimize stress for families while also helping regular security lines move faster by separating travelers who need extra time from those moving through more quickly.Early results show the program is working, with average wait times dropping by about 10 minutes since implementation. Families are also eligible for discounts on TSA PreCheck through the program, which can save even more time during the security screening process.Navigate MCO Successfully in 2026The combination of infrastructure projects, new policies, and operational changes makes 2026 a challenging year for Orlando International Airport travelers. But with proper planning and realistic expectations, you can still navigate MCO successfully and get to your Disney World vacation without major stress. Just remember: build in extra time, check your ID situation before you travel, and stay flexible when your usual airport routines get disrupted by construction or capacity issues.The post Major Changes Coming to Orlando Airport in 2026 That Will Impact Every Disney World Traveler appeared first on Inside the Magic.