Orlando Executive

Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) is not just another air hub in Florida, but an exclusive gateway to the business and financial centre of Central Florida, designed for private and corporate aviation. Located just a few kilometres from downtown, it offers a unique combination of convenience and privacy, serving as a primary base for business jets and charter flights. Unlike its giant neighbour, Orlando International Airport (MCO), Executive offers a calmer and more personalised atmosphere, making it the ideal choice for travellers who value time and comfort.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Orlando Executive is its strategic location — just three miles (about 6 km) east of the centre of Orlando, providing quick access to key business districts and financial centres. The airport operates around the clock and is equipped with two runways, as well as a modern instrument landing system, allowing it to accept aircraft in various weather conditions. Service is provided through two top-class Fixed-Base Operators (FBO), which offer a full range of services for private jets, including refuelling, maintenance, and crew accommodation arrangements.

Beyond its primary function, the airport plays an important role in the regional economy, supporting over 4,000 jobs and contributing $577 million to the state economy. It also serves as a venue for major industry events, such as the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) convention. Interestingly, the airport is also used for the landing of Marine One helicopters during US Presidential visits to Orlando, while Air Force One lands at Orlando International Airport.

Below you will find the main contact information for Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: www.orlandoairports.net/executive-airport/
• Information Desk Phone: +1 407-894-9831
• Airport Address: 365 Rickenbacker Dr, Orlando, FL 32803, USA
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website or call for communication.
• Social Media: Orlando Executive Airport does not have separate accounts. All information is published on the general Orlando Airports pages.
• Lost and Found Information: For items left in the terminal, please contact the airport administration via the main phone number. If luggage or personal items are lost on board, you must contact your air carrier directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Since Orlando Executive primarily serves private and corporate aviation, passenger support is carried out through Fixed-Base Operators (FBO). It is recommended to contact the representatives of the company organising your flight.

Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Orlando, making it easily accessible for travellers. Although this airport mainly serves private and corporate aviation, and most tourists arrive in the USA through larger hubs, ORL can be reached by several convenient methods.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is via the local LYNX bus network. Route #15 runs along East Colonial Drive (SR 50), right by the southern border of the airport. You will need to walk about 5-10 minutes from the stop to the terminals. The cost of the trip is approximately $2. This is an excellent option for economical travellers without a large amount of luggage. There is no direct train or metro connection to the airport.

Taxi, Transfers, and Ridesharing

A taxi ride or using apps like Uber and Lyft is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach Orlando Executive Airport. From the city centre, the journey will take just 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. The estimated cost of the trip is $15–25. This is the ideal choice if you value time, are travelling with luggage, or simply prefer comfort.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to move around the city and its surroundings on your own, renting a car is the best solution. Major highways such as FL-408 and SR 50 lead to the airport, making access very simple. Orlando Executive Airport has convenient parking on its territory where you can leave a vehicle for both short and long terms.

Alternative Airports

It is worth noting that for commercial passenger flights, travellers most often use other regional gateways. The main international hub is Orlando International Airport (MCO), located just 13 km away. Another popular option is Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). In more distant areas, you can find Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB), Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB), and Patrick Space Force Base (COF), serving additional destinations.

Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) differs significantly from large international airports. It specialises in serving private and business aviation rather than scheduled commercial flights. Therefore, there are no familiar passenger terminals numbered A, B, or C here. Instead, the airport infrastructure consists of two main operational bases, known as FBOs (Fixed-Base Operators), which function as terminals for private aircraft.

The main "terminals" at Orlando Executive Airport are two FBOs: Atlantic Aviation and Sheltair. These are separate, unconnected buildings, each offering a full range of services for passengers and crews of private jets. The airport layout is simple: you proceed directly to the operator handling your flight. There are no shuttles or pedestrian walkways between these complexes, so a car is required to move between them.

Departure and arrival procedures here are organised with maximum comfort and minimal time expenditure. Instead of huge waiting halls, passengers enjoy cosy lounges offered by the FBOs. Registration and security checks are incredibly fast — the entire process from arriving at the airport to boarding the plane usually takes just a few minutes, which is a key advantage of business aviation. Arrival and departure zones are effectively combined within a single comfortable FBO space.

The main recommendation for navigation at Orlando Executive Airport is to clarify with your air carrier or broker in advance which of the two operators, Atlantic Aviation or Sheltair, will be handling your flight. Since these are two different buildings with different access roads, knowing the exact destination will save you time and help avoid confusion upon arrival.

The history of Orlando Executive Airport (ORL) is an integral part of the history of Orlando itself, reflecting its rapid development. The airport was officially opened in 1928 under the name Orlando Municipal Airport and became the city's first commercial air gateway. Its emergence contributed to the growth of both the citrus industry and the nascent tourism sector in Central Florida.

A crucial stage in the airport's history occurred during the Second World War. It was transferred to the control of the USA Army Air Forces and became known as the Orlando Army Air Base. Intensive training for pilots and bomber crews took place on its territory. After the war ended, in 1946, the facility returned to civilian status, once again becoming the city's main airport for many years.

With the advent of the jet age in the 1960s, it became obvious that the runways of the airport, by then renamed Herndon Airport, could no longer cope with serving large passenger liners. Gradually, major commercial flights were moved to the more modern and larger McCoy Airport (now MCO). In 1982, the airport received its current name — Orlando Executive Airport. This renaming marked a change in its role: it now focused on serving private, charter, and business aviation.

Today, Orlando Executive is an important hub for business aviation, flight schools, and private pilots. It effectively functions as a reliever airport, easing the load on the main international hub, and remains a living witness to the city's rich aviation history — from the first propeller planes to modern business jets.

Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), serving primarily private and corporate aviation, offers a suite of services focused on the comfort and convenience of business travellers. Most amenities are concentrated in the terminals of the ground handling operators (FBOs), which are the main service centres for passengers.

The popular Runway Cafe operates on the airport grounds, where you can have a meal in the atmosphere of a classic American diner while watching planes take off and land. Regarding shopping, it is limited to basic goods for travellers and pilots available within the FBOs. It is the FBO operators who provide access to comfortable lounges and VIP zones, where passengers can relax before their flight, enjoy coffee, and partake in light refreshments.

For those who need to stay connected, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal areas and FBO lounges, along with charging stations for electronic devices. For business travellers, FBOs offer fully equipped business centres with access to computers and office equipment, as well as the option to rent conference rooms for holding meetings directly at the airport.

Specialised banking services and currency exchange points are absent at Orlando Executive Airport, so it is recommended to settle financial matters in advance. In case first aid is needed, airport staff are ready to assist and call emergency medical services. All airport facilities are fully equipped for passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and accessible restrooms. Changing tables are provided in the restrooms for travellers with small children.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. However, thanks to its convenient location just a few kilometres from the city centre of Orlando, many accommodation options to suit any taste and budget can be found nearby, easily accessible by taxi or rental car. This proximity to the business and entertainment centre makes the airport a convenient arrival point for many visitors to the city.

When planning a trip through Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), it is important to understand its specific nature. This is a business and private aviation airport, so you will not find large terminals with food courts here as you would in international hubs. Nevertheless, comfortable dining options are available for passengers and crew.

A Full Meal with a Runway View

The popular themed restaurant The 94th Aero Squadron is located on the airport grounds. This establishment, styled after a French farmhouse from the First World War era, offers guests not only a diverse menu of American cuisine but also a unique opportunity to watch planes taking off and landing. It is an ideal place for a leisurely lunch or dinner. The menu includes steaks, seafood, and classic salads. It is recommended to check opening hours in advance and book a table, especially in the evening.

Quick Snacks and Drinks at the FBO

The main service for private flight passengers takes place in the FBO (Fixed-Base Operator) complexes. The lounge areas of these complexes usually offer complimentary snacks, fresh pastries, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Vending machines with a wider assortment of snacks and beverages can also be found here. This is an excellent option for those with little time before departure.

Special Dietary Needs

Options for passengers with special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal considerations) in the FBO are limited to a standard set of snacks. The most reliable method is to order catering in advance through your air broker or directly through the servicing FBO. The staff will help organise the delivery of specific dishes to the aircraft that strictly meet your preferences.

When planning a departure from Orlando Executive Airport, it is important to remember that it primarily serves private and corporate aviation. This means there are no crowds here like in large international hubs. As a rule, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure. However, always verify the exact time with your airline or private flight operator, as their requirements may differ.

Registration and security control procedures at Orlando Executive Airport usually proceed significantly faster than at major commercial hubs. Travelling through the city of Orlando, you will appreciate this advantage. Nevertheless, standard USA security regulations remain in force. Have your passport and boarding pass ready. Be prepared to present electronic devices and carry-on luggage for inspection. The simplified process is one of the main advantages of executive terminals.

Unlike commercial flights, when flying on a private or charter plane, the question of seat selection is usually not as acute. This is one of the pleasant benefits of flying from this airport. Seating is generally either free within a comfortable cabin or arranged in advance with your flight operator, which eliminates the need to rush during boarding to occupy a convenient seat.

Carry-on luggage rules comply with national TSA standards. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers no larger than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. Large electronics, such as laptops, must be removed from bags for separate scanning. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin.

Orlando Executive Airport is not a hub for connecting commercial airline flights. If you have a transfer to a scheduled flight planned, it will most likely be at Orlando International Airport (MCO). In this case, you need to organise a transfer between airports yourself, allowing sufficient time considering traffic conditions.

Upon arriving by international flight at Orlando Executive, you will have to undergo customs and border control. Ensure that your passport and visa (if required for citizens of your country) are valid. You will need to fill out a customs declaration, honestly declaring all imported goods. Having all necessary documents at hand will significantly speed up the process.

The main saving when using this airport is time saving. Fast registration and control procedures allow you to avoid long waits. To save money, we recommend booking a transfer from the airport in advance — whether it be a car rental or a taxi. Comparing prices from different companies online will help you find the most advantageous offer.

In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact the representative of your airline or charter operator for up-to-date information. The airport terminals (FBO — Fixed-Base Operator) feature comfortable waiting lounges with Wi-Fi and refreshments. If the delay is lengthy, you might consider a short trip to nearby areas of the city, but definitely coordinate this with your flight operator so as not to miss your departure.