Orlando travelers now have two incredible new ways to explore the world without a single layover. This fall, Orlando International Airport (MCO) announced new nonstop connections that make it easier than ever to experience the culture, excitement, and opportunity of two major global cities: Tokyo, Japan, and Madrid, Spain.

A Direct Gateway to Spain with Iberia Airlines

For the first time ever, Orlando is now directly connected to Spain, thanks to Iberia’s brand-new route between Madrid and Orlando. The inaugural flight took off from Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport at 11:30 a.m. and landed at MCO at 4:45 p.m. local time, marking a historic milestone for both cities.

The airline will operate four flights per week—on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—providing more than 46,000 seats this winter season. Iberia becomes the only airline offering nonstop service between Spain and Orlando, expanding its U.S. network to ten cities.

Before takeoff, travelers at Madrid’s Terminal 4 were greeted by a Disney-themed celebration, complete with a large Walt Disney World arch at the boarding gate and special surprises onboard for younger passengers. The collaboration highlighted the connection between Madrid and Orlando’s shared passion for family, fun, and magic.

“Orlando is much more than a tourist destination. It’s a global hub for leisure, conferences, and innovation,” said Beatriz Guillén, Iberia’s Customers Director. “We’re proud to be the only airline directly linking Spain with this city.”

This new route not only strengthens Orlando’s role as a gateway to the Americas but also enhances opportunities for international business and tourism. For travelers from Central Florida, it offers a seamless route to Spain’s capital—a city brimming with art, food, and culture—while Spanish visitors gain easy access to Walt Disney World and Central Florida’s world-famous attractions.

Orlando’s First Direct Connection to Asia: ZIPAIR’s Historic Tokyo Route

In another major win for Orlando, ZIPAIR Tokyo announced the first-ever nonstop passenger flights between Florida and the Asia-Pacific region. This historic partnership will link Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo with Orlando International Airport through a series of four charter flights beginning February 23, 2026.

The service, operating roundtrip between February 23 and March 10, marks a breakthrough for Orlando’s international connectivity. While these flights are initially charter-only, they set the stage for a potential permanent route in the future.

“This will be the first nonstop passenger flight between Asia Pacific and the state of Florida,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority. “It’s a testament to the economic strength we share between our communities.”

ZIPAIR’s president, Shingo Nishida, expressed excitement about connecting Japanese travelers directly to Orlando’s world-class attractions. “We look forward to welcoming Disney fans and guests on our charter flights next spring,” he said.

The new route also opens up exciting cultural and business exchanges. Tokyo and Orlando share more than tourism—they’re both global centers of technology, creativity, and innovation. Tourism leaders across Central Florida hailed the announcement as a “landmark moment” that bridges continents, economies, and opportunities.

Orlando’s Global Moment

With direct routes to both Madrid and Tokyo, Orlando International Airport continues to expand its reputation as a true global gateway. These new connections strengthen Orlando’s position as a major hub for international travel, welcoming more visitors, ideas, and experiences from around the world.

As Iberia takes passengers from Florida to the heart of Spain and ZIPAIR builds a bridge to Japan, Orlando’s skyline shines even brighter—proving once again that this city’s reach truly extends across the globe.

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