Celebrations are deserved for Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) for its new Terminal C. This innovative terminal created with high-tech conveniences officially opened on September 20, 2022, with a more expansive recognition on December 6, 2022. Since then, it has been in full operations, supporting growing passenger volume visiting Central Florida.
Orlando International Airport ranks in the Top 10 of the world’s busiest airports and the 1.8 million-square-foot Terminal C is one of the largest terminal projects in the USA in the past couple of years. What is unique about the new Terminal C is its vision and commitment to next generation technologies. Their design prioritized safety, security, sustainability, customer experience (including retail and dining) and technology innovation to create a modern transportation hub of the future.
With safety, security, sustainability, traveler experience and innovation at the forefront of their mind, the airport invested in state-of-the-art technology, including Passive Optical Network (PON) technology in Terminal C with end-to-end 10 gigabit speeds powered by a Tellabs Optical LAN system purpose built for airport connectivity needs.
Passive Optical LAN is a high-speed data network that promotes the use of fiber-optic cables to transmit data across far reaching distances and significantly limits the use of traditional copper cables. Optical LAN allows for faster, secure, and more reliable communication between devices as well as increased bandwidth for data-intensive airport applications like connecting 1,000 high-definition displays that guide travelers from check-in through boarding – plus baggage handling, wireless access points, check-in counters, and kiosks.
For the airport to hit its sustainability goals, the Optical LAN is energy-efficient, requiring less cooling equipment and reducing energy consumption throughout the terminal by eliminating the need for telecommunication rooms. In fact, that reduction in telecom room footprint was repurposed by the airport into revenue generation like expanded retail services.
Behind the scenes, the Optical LAN enhances safety and security with reliable connectivity that helps the airport staff to monitor security cameras and access control systems in real-time, improving situational awareness and response times in an emergency.
Traveler experience is improved with Optical LAN’s high-speed interfaces to smart wayfinding kiosks that provide real-time information on flight schedules and airport amenities, as well as interactive digital displays that highlight local attractions and entertainment.
With that said, and on behalf of Tellabs, I would like to congratulate GOAA, and Orlando Airport, on all their innovations achieved at Terminal C. Overall, the Optical LAN is a testament to the airport’s commitment to providing passengers with the best possible modern travel experience. By investing in advanced technology like the Optical LAN, the airport offers a safe, secure, sustainable, reliable, and more efficient travel experience for all who pass over their runways.
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