Osceola Leads Effort to Create Opportunities for NeoCity, Tourism
Osceola County, Florida – A “Participation Agreement” signed Monday aims to establish direct flights between South Korea’s Incheon Airport and Orlando International Airport (MCO), marking a significant step forward in fostering international business development and connectivity.
The agreement with Incheon International Airport, one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, has long been sought by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates MCO.
The effort, spearheaded by GOAA, Osceola County and a coalition of regional stakeholders, underscores the importance of linking the 500-acre NeoCity technology district to this dynamic global market with many other benefits for Central Florida.
“With our exciting partnership with Orlando International Airport and Osceola County in Florida, we will jointly embark on comprehensive efforts to establish the first-ever direct flight route from Asia to Orlando, thereby improving passenger convenience and promoting vibrant business and travel exchanges between South Korea and the United States,” said Lee Hag-jae, President & CEO of Incheon International Airport.
Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of GOAA added: “This is an exciting partnership between two global gateways, both of which have the privilege of being economic engines. Incheon International Airport and Orlando International are both inspired to elevate the quality of our transportation networks and embrace the idea of an ecosystem that advances technology and brings investment opportunities.”
The groundwork for this agreement was laid earlier last year during a trade mission to South Korea, led by Osceola County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb, a veteran of such international visits. The delegation included representatives from GOAA, the City of Orlando, the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), tourism and airline executives, among other key partners.
“Direct flights from South Korea to Orlando have long been a goal for our region, and this agreement brings us closer than ever to making that vision a reality,” said Grieb. “This connection will not only strengthen tourism but also business connections to position NeoCity as a global leader in semiconductor innovation, paving the way for greater economic opportunities and international collaboration.”
NeoCity and its partners stand to benefit immensely from increased connectivity with South Korea, a country renowned for its leadership in advanced technology and manufacturing. Establishing a nonstop flight route is expected to bolster business ties, attract investments, and support the region’s growing reputation as a center for technological innovation.
The agreement between Incheon International Airport, GOAA and Osceola County demonstrates the collaborative efforts of local and international stakeholders to meet the growing demand for seamless travel options between the two regions – and is yet another example of the growth in NeoCity’s ecosystem that has been accelerated by the National Science Foundation’s Regional Innovation Engines program. The County and its partners will continue to work diligently to finalize the details needed to bring this project to fruition.
Incheon International opened in 2001 to share the demand for air transport in the 21st century and to serve as a hub airport in Northeast Asia. It serves the Seoul capital area and has 145 gates and four runways. Top U.S. destinations are Los Angeles and New York.
Direct flights will open the area to more international visitors.
“This partnership marks a significant step forward as we establish a direct gateway into Asian markets. It not only strengthens our ties with the Korean market but also supports other Asian markets from which we receive guests, such as Japan and China,” DT Minich, President and CEO of Experience Kissimmee. “With the current limitations on flights from Asia to the East Coast, this initiative opens up more opportunities, convenience, and efficiency for our Asian travelers.”
Osceola officials noted this was another connection assisted by NeoCityLinks, which facilitates and directs South Korean investment and business activity to the County.
As a global tourist destination with major theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld, and the Kennedy Space Center – and rapidly growing in industries such as semiconductors, AI, and aerospace, Central Florida has rich potential passenger demand, and with the opening of the new route, growth in both tourist and business travelers, as well as transfer passengers via Incheon from the Asia region, Incheon officials said.
It is estimated that there is a passenger demand of about 150,000 people between Northeast Asia and Orlando, and about 350,000 people between Northeast Asia and Florida.
“With global competition intensifying, it’s crucial for the Central Florida community to unite and prioritize air service development, especially in emerging markets like Asia,” said Casandra Matej, President and CEO of Visit Orlando. “This strategic collaboration with Incheon International Airport is exciting progress in long-term efforts to expand our global presence and ensure that Orlando tourism continues to drive substantial economic benefit.”
For more information contact Jessica J. Kim, Chief Operating Officer, NeoCityLinks at jessica@neocitylinks.com, 407-592-7772.
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