With its business-friendly environment, world-class infrastructure, and growing aviation sector, Orlando is shaping the future of global air travel. Iberia’s expansion and United’s investment are just the beginning of what’s ahead for the nation’s most dynamic aviation market.
Orlando’s status as a global leader in aviation, business, and innovation is soaring with two major developments: United Airlines’ $315 million investment in a future Technical Operations complex at Orlando International Airport and Iberia Airlines’ new nonstop service to Madrid. These expansions reinforce Orlando’s position as a premier destination for international business and aviation growth, strengthening our economy and creating new opportunities for investment and job creation. Both projects were supported by the Orlando Economic Partnership and are a result of collaborative efforts between the OEP, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, and other business and community organizations.
United Airlines Breaks Ground on Aviation Workforce Expansion
United Airlines broke ground on the United Technical Operations Orlando Campus, a 354,400 square-foot maintenance campus with two hangars, a warehouse, shops, offices, work areas, and staff parking facilities.
“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 Airlines
“Orlando’s ideal location enables us to route aircraft while minimizing ferry expense, ensuring we continue to operate efficiently and dependably.”
The new complex, when complete, will accommodate narrow-body and wide-body aircraft. The project will bring more than 1,000 employees closer together, with that increase also positively impacting the economic flow in the region. Having a presence at MCO since 1978, 25 percent of United’s U.S. fleet is now serviced in Orlando.
“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.
Tim Giuliani, President and CEO, Orlando Economic Partnership
Iberia Launches Nonstop Flights to Madrid, Strengthening Global Business & Tourism
Iberia Airlines introduces a new, direct route between Madrid and Orlando, beginning October 26, 2025. The new four-times-weekly service will bring over 46,000 seats per year to the region, opening doors for business expansion, investment opportunities, and increased European tourism.
This milestone is the result of collaborative efforts across multiple organizations including the OEP, GOAA, Visit Orlando and other business and community organizations who joined a delegation organized by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro Orlando to Madrid in 2024. This visit, along with other strategic efforts, helped position Orlando as the next international gateway for Iberia.
“Global connectivity is a key driver of economic growth,” said Tim Giuliani, President and CEO of the Orlando Economic Partnership.
Iberia’s new Madrid service strengthens Orlando’s ties to Europe, creating new opportunities for international business, tourism, and investment. This expansion highlights what we’ve long known Orlando is not just a top travel destination, but a global economic powerhouse.
Tim Giuliani, President and CEO, Orlando Economic Partnership
Orlando: A Premier Destination for Aviation Growth
Orlando isn’t just benefiting from new air service—it is one of the most attractive regions for aviation investment and innovation. The region offers:
- 4,000+ acres of aeronautical land ready for development
- Four public-use airports with year-round flying weather and no need for de-icing
- A robust talent pipeline, supported by leading aviation-focused higher education institutions
- 9 international airports within 100 miles, providing unmatched connectivity
With its business-friendly environment, world-class infrastructure, and growing aviation sector, Orlando is shaping the future of global air travel. Iberia’s expansion and United’s investment are just the beginning of what’s ahead for the nation’s most dynamic aviation market.
