After the closing of McCoy Air Force Base in 1974, surplus land was provided to the City of Orlando for the purpose of an airport. Orlando International Airport opened in 1976. Passenger traffic exceeded 5 million almost immediately and has now topped 25 million.

The multi-level terminal offers ground transportation services on level 1, baggage claim/arrivals on level 2, ticketing/departures on the third level. Airport services include a business center, currency exchange, restaurants, lounges, USO military lounge, duty free shops, and chapel. Hotel accomodations are available on the airport grounds. Parking garages are located on both sides of the main terminal additional parking on top of the terminal and lots within easy walking distance. Satellite parking is located on Cargo Road, just off main entrance on Hwy 436, shuttle service is provided. Ground transportation services are ranked #1 in the US.