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New Trams coming to Orlando International Airport as it replaces aging Gate Link System

Alastair Mac
6 days ago
3 min read

After transporting travelers for more than 5 million miles, about 200 trips around the Earth, the time has come to replace the Gate Link vehicles, tracks, and electrical control equipment between Terminals A/B and Gates 70-129.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is gearing up for a major upgrade project that will transform how passengers move through the airport. Beginning December 3, 2025, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) will launch the Gate Link Replacement Project, a $253 million investment that promises a smoother, faster, and more reliable journey from the security checkpoints to the airside.

At the heart of the project is replacing MCO’s aging Gate Link system with state-of-the-art technology and new tram vehicles designed to meet the demands of tomorrow’s travelers. The overhaul, to be done in phases, will introduce four brand-new Gate Link vehicles connecting passengers between Terminals A and B to Gates 70-129 on Airside 2 and Airside 4.

To make way for this next-generation system, crews will also upgrade the entire supporting infrastructure, from running surfaces and operating systems to power distribution, vehicle controls, communication networks, and platform screen doors to ensure a world-class travel experience for years to come.

“Orlando International Airport is proud to be the gateway that welcomes millions of visitors to Central Florida and connects our residents to destinations around the world,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO. “While this project requires some temporary adjustments, the long-term benefits will enhance safety and ensure our Gate Link system serves passengers reliably for decades to come.”

The new Gate Link vehicles are Mitsubishi brand, similar in style to those placed into operation at MCO in 2017 during the Gate Link Replacement Project for Gates 1-59, serving Airsides 1 and 3.

Key Project Benefits

Enhanced Reliability: New vehicles and upgraded traction systems ensure smoother, more consistent performance.
Advanced Safety Features: Modern controls and operating systems improve safety for travelers.
Sustainability: Energy-efficient technology reduces environmental impact.

What Passengers Can Expect

The Gate Link Replacement Project is a carefully coordinated, phased upgrade to the Gate Link system connecting the North Terminal Complex (Terminals A and B) and Gates 70-129, which includes Airside 2 and Airside 4.

Work is scheduled to take place from December 2025 through Fall 2027.

During normal operations, most passengers will experience only a few extra minutes in their journey, even during peak holiday periods because one tram will remain in operation during the project.
From time to time, especially overnight, travelers may use shuttle buses as part of their journey through the airport.
Travelers using rental car or ground transportation services are encouraged to allow an additional 30 minutes in their pickup planning.

To help ensure a seamless journey for passengers during the project, MCO will have additional guest service ambassadors, clear wayfinding signage, and continuous customer support.

Throughout the project, we ask for passengers’ patience and understanding while we enhance the future travel experience.

Travel Smart

Airport officials remind passengers to follow the 3-2-1 rule:

Be at the ticket counter 3 hours before departure.
Be at the TSA security checkpoint 2 hours before departure.
Be at the gate 1 hour before boarding.

Orlando International Airport Capital Improvement Program

The $253 million Gate Link Replacement Project is part of GOAA’s broader 2025-2030 Capital Improvement Program, representing $5.9 billion in investments to modernize and expand MCO’s facilities.

These upgrades will improve efficiency and operations, enhance passenger safety, and reinforce Orlando International Airport’s reputation as one of the world’s leading airports.

This includes:

Expanding parking capacity
Expanding baggage handling capacity
New and upgraded gate areas
Modernizing Terminal A and Terminal B
Renovating and adding new restrooms, seating areas, retail shops, and restaurants
Installation of state-of-the-art technology and wayfinding to improve the journey through MCO

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