In October 1982, EPCOT Center opened at Walt Disney World in Orlando, heralding a new chapter that would begin Orlando’s journey to becoming the Theme Park Capital of the World. EPCOT was groundbreaking, divided into two distinct areas: Future World, focused on technology and its role in shaping tomorrow, and World Showcase, a celebration of cultures from around the globe. The opening was a spectacle in itself, spanning three weeks and attracting international attention with a lineup of special events, one of which took place at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Today marks the 42nd anniversary of the historic dual Concorde landing by Air France and British Airways at MCO. 🛬 This iconic event commemorated the opening of EPCOT’s World Showcase, highlighting the France and United Kingdom pavilions.🎉 pic.twitter.com/uz4yX8rUMA
— Orlando International Airport (@MCO) October 18, 2024
A Supersonic Spectacle at MCO
On October 18, 1982, two Concordes—one from British Airways and the other from Air France—touched down simultaneously at MCO, drawing an estimated 35,000 spectators. The sleek supersonic jets landed side by side, a rare sight. The event marked the first and only time Concordes completed a dual landing, making it an unforgettable moment for the city and aviation enthusiasts.
Concorde’s Visit: A Rare Event for Orlando
Unlike New York and Washington, D.C., which hosted regular Concorde flights, Orlando was not a typical destination for the famed supersonic jets. Concorde’s visit to MCO was entirely promotional and tied to the international spirit of EPCOT’s World Showcase. Seeing British Airways and Air France’s Concordes at MCO was a unique treat for Floridians, as the aircraft usually catered to elite business travel markets far from Central Florida’s leisure hub.
A Perfectly Coordinated Landing
According to AVGeekery.com:
Both Concordes approached MCO’s 12,000 foot long parallel runways from the south, and touched down 2 seconds apart, to the cheers of 35,000 spectators in attendance.
Such a stunt was attempted before in Washington D.C. in 1976, but heavy air traffic over Dulles International Airport ruined it; both planes landed over a minute apart.
Looking Back on an Iconic Event
For those who missed it or want to relive the moment, this video from Orlando TV station WESH captures the thrill of the Concorde landing at MCO.
Although I was a Disney fan back then, I didn’t learn about this event until I saw MCO feature it on social media.
Cover Photo: MCO Twitter @MCO
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