GOAA Board Supports Elevating Orlando International Airport's Beautification & Safety Program

In a move that underscores its commitment to delivering a world-class travel experience, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) Board approved a Fiscal Year 2026 budget amendment for $27 million to support an initiative under the recently organized Beautiful Airports Program. This is a transformative effort dedicated to enhancing safety, functionality, and aesthetics at Orlando International (MCO) and Orlando Executive (ORL) airports.

The funding includes both strategic use of existing Operations and Maintenance funds, along with the $27 million budget amendment, for a total of $40 million.

“Everything we do is centered on elevating the journey,” said Lance Lyttle, Chief Executive Officer of GOAA, which manages MCO and ORL. “While we are making bold, transformative investments to accommodate more flights and more passengers, we know that a truly world-class experience is defined by the details.”

At the heart of the mission for the Beautiful Airports Program is a simple yet powerful idea: every detail matters. The program comprises the Beautiful Airports Team, bringing together subject matter experts from various Aviation Authority divisions to address everything from targeted repairs and fresh paint to deep cleaning and pressure washing. The work goes beyond routine facilities maintenance as the team elevates the look, feel, and safety of the airport environment in ways guests will immediately notice.

Momentum & Milestones

As part of Wednesday’s GOAA Board meeting, members reelected Stephanie Kopelousos to another term as Chair. GOAA is governed by a seven-member board, including the Mayor of the City of Orlando, Mayor of Orange County, and five members appointed by the Governor of the State of Florida. Kopelousos was first selected as Chair in August 2025 and has reinforced the Aviation Authority’s commitment to innovation and the next generation of airport development.

The Board also applauded CEO Lyttle on his first full year of service. Lyttle joined GOAA in April 2025 with more than two decades of airport leadership experience. In that time, he has focused intently on initiatives to significantly enhance every touchpoint of the passenger journey and strengthen airport operations. His leadership is guided by GOAA’s Board-approved vision, built on four pillars: Customer Experience, Community, Infrastructure, and People.

The Board also expressed deep appreciation for Chief Financial Officer Kathleen Sharman, who will retire in May following a distinguished career in public service.

In recognition of her contributions, GOAA Board Member and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer proclaimed May 1, 2026, as Kathleen Sharman Appreciation Day in the City of Orlando. The proclamation highlights her steady financial leadership and role in guiding GOAA through a period of unprecedented growth, with MCO now serving nearly 58 million passengers annually.