Replacement Signs Spotted for Disney’s Magical Express

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

With only a few days left in 2021, Walt Disney World Resort is beginning the signage removal process of the complimentary airport transportation system known as Disney’s Magical Express. Disney previously announced the Magical Express service is coming to an end with the last day of operation is December 31, 2021.

Disney's Magical Express

There are currently two forms of transportation to be offered in the new year as Magical Express replacement options, both non-Disney services that come with a fee. Mears Connect and The Sunshine Flyer will be traveling to and from Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Walt Disney World Resort hotels for select fees.

The Sunshine Flyer

Now, the Magical Express signs once found at Disney World Resorts are being replaced with standard “Airport Shuttle Departures” signs.

Disney's Magical Express Sign

@followyourdreams_travels took to Instagram with the following photo and note: “They have already begun to install in the Disney Hotels, the new signs to indicate where to wait for the paid buses, replacing those of the Disney’s Magical Express. The Magical Express that operates free to and from the Orlando Airport transporting Guests, stops providing the Service on December 31, 2021. Guests will be able to book a bus to and from the Airport paying for the service.”

Mears Transportation service fees will be $16 (per adult) / $13.50 (per child) for a one-way trip or $32 (per adult) / $27 (per child) for a round trip. For the express car service, Guests can pay $250 for a round trip with up to 4 passengers, with an additional $55 per additional passenger.

The Sunshine Flyer service fees will be $17 (per adult) / $12.50 (per child) for a one-way service. Or, you can purchase round-trip tickets for $34 (per adult) and $25 (per child).

Disney’s Magical Express Replacement Announced

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

We previously shared the big new that Disney announced the Magical Express service for airport transportation will come to an end beginning January 1, 2022. This complimentary Disney resort guest service will be greatly missed. Shortly after Disney’s announcement, Mears – who operates the Magical Express service – announced they plan to continue offering transportation service in some form. Well, now enters the latest in Disney’s Magical Express replacement… “Mears Connect”.

Mears Connect is coming in January 2022, just in time for the retirement of Disney’s Magical Express. While details are limited, we do know that Mears Transportation’s connection experience will connect guests from the airport to Disney Resort areas. Mears has announced this new transportation will offer “The Same Reliable, Safe, Express Service”. You can begin making your reservations for Mears Connect starting May 2021. Finally, be sure to sign up for their notification emails be clicking here.

Mears Issues Statement on Disney’s Magical Express Service Suspension

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

As we reported earlier yesterday, Disney’s Magical Express service, which provides guests with transportation between Orlando International Airport and the Walt Disney World, will be ending in 2022. The service was operated by Mears Transportation, which has seen a number of layoffs due to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, and has since issued a statement regarding the suspension of the service.

Mears Transportation issued the following statement to Spectrum News 13

“Walt Disney [World] made us aware of their decision. While we are disappointed Disney will no longer offer this service, we intend to continue offering transportation services between the airport and all area theme parks and hotels to meet the demand of our visitors now and in the future.”

Disney’s Magical Express service is set to end on January 1, 2022. For more information on Mears Transportation options to the theme parks, including shared shuttles, Mears taxis, and even private cars, click here.

Disney’s Magical Express service was launched back in 2005, offering guests complimentary motorcoach transportation between MCO and Walt Disney World Resort hotels as a benefit of staying on-property. Other popular benefits for Disney Resort hotel guests have also been modified or suspended:

  • Complimentary MagicBands are no longer offered for resort stays
  • Souvenir luggage tags and Magical Extras booklets are now only available by request at resort front desks
  • Extra Magic Hours will be replaced with “Early Theme Park Entry”, providing just 30 minutes of early access to parks—however, guests now have the option to choose which park

Disney’s Magical Express Service Ending in 2022 at Walt Disney World

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Disney Resorts

Disney’s Magical Express service, which provides guests with transportation between Orlando International Airport and the Walt Disney World, will be ending in 2022.

The service is set to end on January 1, 2022. While Disney’s Magical Express service is still available for stays through that date, DME is no longer providing luggage delivery for those arriving to and departing from Orlando International Airport. Resort airline check-in service is also no longer available.

Below is the official statement from Walt Disney World regarding the cancellation of this service:

“Vacationers have more options to choose from than ever for transportation, including ride-share services that save time and offer more flexibility to go where they want, when they want. In light of this shift, when Disney Resort hotel bookings open for stays in 2022, we will no longer offer Disney’s Magical Express service for airport transportation, starting with arrivals Jan. 1, 2022. We will continue to operate the service for new and existing reservations made at Disney Resort hotels for arrivals throughout 2021. Additionally, complimentary transportation options – such as buses, monorails and Disney Skyliner – will continue to be available within Walt Disney World Resort for Disney Resort hotel guests, including to and from all four theme parks.”