Orlando International Airport, MCO, plans to nearly double passenger capacity.

This isn’t only about the big getting bigger, it’s also a case of ensuring relevance for the future of Orlando, Florida.

Following approval in mid October by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board, the wheels are in motion to nearly double Orlando International Airport’s passenger capacity. The airport was originally designed to accommodate 24 million travelers annually, but the approved expansion plans will increase the capacity of MCO’s current terminal to 45 million passengers per year.

“Over $5 billion has been earmarked for investment into local industries, which creates jobs, and we must anticipate the demand these investments will create,” says Frank Kruppenbacher, chairman of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority.

Much of the improvements are predictable, encompassing the terminal ticket lobby, baggage claim and ground transportation. The largest chunk of money ($470 million) is earmarked for the South Airport APM Complex, designed to support future multi- modal travel connections, including All Aboard Florida. Another $114 million is slated for airside international improvements.

Work is expected to begin in fiscal year 2014 and conclude by fiscal year 2017.

In addition, there’s this important fact: Construction on the projects brings an estimated 4,000 direct and indirect jobs to the region.