In a development that will create valuable opportunity for the region, United Airlines broke ground recently on the site of its future Technical Operations complex at Orlando International Airport (MCO). The $315 million project is part of a landmark agreement between the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) and United Airlines, one of MCO’s longstanding airline partners.
United Airlines will build a 354,400 square-foot maintenance campus, featuring two hangars, a warehouse, shops, offices, work areas, and staff parking facilities. The new complex will have the flexibility to accommodate up to six narrow-body aircraft at once, or one wide-body aircraft and three narrow-body aircraft simultaneously.
The new Technical Operations complex will be located along Tradeport Drive, on the west side of the airport property, where United currently operates one of two hangars.
Upon completion, United’s Orlando Tech Ops workforce of more than 1,000 people will work together on a single maintenance campus, replacing the multiple facilities the airline currently occupies. United will continue to operate its existing facilities during the construction period. The airline will vacate its current warehouse once the relocation to the new campus is complete, followed by the demolition of a hangar originally constructed in 1954.
“Modernizing our footprint at Orlando International Airport will help support the needs of our growth strategy while also bringing our maintenance team closer together,” said Kirk Limacher, Senior Vice President of Tech Ops, Planning and Strategy at United. “Orlando’s ideal location enables us to route aircraft while minimizing ferry expense, ensuring we continue to operate efficiently and dependably.”
“United’s new state-of-the-art Technical Operations complex represents a transformative investment in the region, while creating new development opportunity for the airport,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, which operates Orlando International Airport. “This project will provide development-ready land with direct ramp and airside access. This type of real estate is a limited resource and is valuable for future aeronautical development at MCO.”
United Airlines has the largest mainline aircraft fleet in the world and currently operates more than 40 daily departures at Orlando International Airport, as of April 2025.
“This new development represents the power of collaboration between the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority and United Airlines, one of the nation’s most established legacy carriers,” said Tim Weisheyer, Chairman of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board. “As we continue to grow and innovate, this project perfectly aligns with our Aviation Authority’s Strategic Plan, which emphasizes fostering a culture of multi-industry innovation. United’s significant investment will not only enhance our airport’s capabilities but also strengthen the region’s position as a leader in aviation, creating lasting benefits for the community and industry alike.”
“We are excited to hear the United Airlines Board of Directors approved a large expansion in the Orlando region,” said Tim Giuliani, President and CEO, Orlando Economic Partnership. “This proves Orlando’s aviation industry is fueled by a robust talent pipeline, strategic location, and world-class infrastructure. As a global gateway, expanding airline maintenance and repair services at our international airport strengthens our position as a leader in aerospace innovation, creates high-wage jobs, and ensures long-term economic growth.”
The United Airlines Technical Operations complex at Orlando International Airport (MCO) is expected to open in late 2027.