The Misconception of Disney VIPs Flying at Walt Disney World Airport (2019)

When it comes to visiting Walt Disney World, many people wonder about the possibility of VIPs traveling directly via their very own private airstrip. However, the concept of a dedicated Disney airport is a misconception, as there has never been an official airport with that name. This article will explore the history and current status of the so-called Walt Disney World Airport and other nearby airfields during the period of interest.

Historical Overview of Airports Around Walt Disney World

Firstly, it is crucial to understand that there isn't an airport specifically called Walt Disney World Airport in 2019 and earlier. Instead, Disney VIPs would typically use commercial services to reach the area. The primary airports used by most visitors are Orlando International Airport and Sanford International Airport. These locations provide regular commercial flights that serve the Walt Disney World Resort effectively.

The International Airfields

Orlando International Airport (MCO), once known as McCoy Air Force Base, is the most accessible and utilized airport for air travelers visiting Walt Disney World. MCO opened civilian operations in 1976 and today handles approximately 50 million passengers per year, making it a reliable gateway to the theme park.

Orlando Jetport and McCoy Air Base

In the 1970s, there was a brief period when the Orlando Jetport, located on the McCoy Air Force Base, provided commercial service. However, this was just a short-lived phase and does not constitute a proper airport that VIPs could access regularly.

Walt Disney World Airport – A Misunderstanding

The confusion often arises from the mention of Lake Buena Vista Airport, which was built in 1971 and was part of an early plan for Walt Disney World. However, this airport was only used for small aircraft and was short-lived. It was completely demolished in 1972 and replaced with the Contemporary Resort and the Magic Kingdom.

Lake Buena Vista Airport

Lake Buena Vista Airport, officially called the Lake Buena Vista Airport, served a unique but temporary role. The runway was constructed on the Disney property and was "Disneyfied" with grooves cut in the road that allowed cars to play the theme park's famed song, "When You Wish Upon a Star," at 45 miles per hour. This project was short-lived, and the airport ceased operations shortly after Walt Disney World's first theme park, Magic Kingdom, opened in 1971.

Current Use of the Site

The land that once hosted the Lake Buena Vista Airport is now part of the Walt Disney World property. The site, located east of the Magic Kingdom parking lot and visible from Vista Drive and Epcot monorail loop, is used as a bus holding area. It is no longer registered as an active airport by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the alleged use of a dedicated Disney airport for VIPs to travel directly to Walt Disney World is a myth. The site of the former Lake Buena Vista Airport is now part of the Resort and is utilized for different purposes, but it has not had any scheduled or unscheduled commercial air service since the 1980s. For those who wish to visit the park, using Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Sanford International Airport remains the most practical and reliable options.