Longtime Dr. Phillips (Fla.) head football coach Rodney Wells has decided its time to hang up the whistle at his alma mater.

According to an announcement by Wells via his personal Facebook page, the Panthers’ lead man is stepping down as head football coach of Dr. Phillips after 15 seasons at the helm. Wells led the Panthers to the Class 7A, Region 4 final, falling to state finalist Vero Beach.

“After so many blessed seasons, memories and relationships I am stepping away from the game I love,” Wells said in the social media post. “Coaching at DP, My Alma Mater, has always been about the young men who trusted me, showed up every day, and gave everything they had. To my players, Thank you for your extreme effort, your resilience, and for allowing me to be a small part of your journey. You are champions on and off the field and I am proud of each of you.”

Wells took over the program in 2011 and found immediate success at Dr. Phillips, putting together seven double-digit win seasons and accumulating an overall record of 136-50 from 2011-2025.

The Panthers went 9-4 last season and finished as the state’s No. 76 ranked team, according to the final Florida 2025 High School Football Massey Rankings.

More about Dr. Phillips High School

Dr. Phillips High School, located in Orlando, FL, is renowned for both academic excellence and a strong athletics program. The Panthers, with their vibrant royal blue and black colors, have a rich tradition in sports, particularly in football and basketball, where they have gained statewide recognition. The school’s commitment to fostering well-rounded students is evident in its diverse extracurricular offerings and competitive sports teams that regularly compete at the highest levels in Florida.

How to Follow Florida High School Football

For Florida high school football fans looking to keep up with scores around the Sunshine State, staying updated on the action is now easier than ever with the Rivals High School Scoreboard. This comprehensive resource provides real-time updates and final scores from across the state, ensuring you never miss a moment of the Friday night frenzy. From nail-biting finishes to dominant performances, the Rivals High School Scoreboard is your one-stop destination for tracking all the Florida high school football excitement across the state.

Virgin Atlantic has announced an exciting development for travellers heading to Orlando, Florida, in 2026. The airline is expanding its transatlantic routes and increasing direct flights from Manchester Airport to Orlando, offering even more options for passengers looking to visit one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.

As part of Virgin Atlantic’s 30th anniversary of operating from Manchester, this expanded flight schedule will allow passengers to book more convenient flights to the US city, just in time for the peak travel season. Whether you’re planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World or exploring other Orlando attractions, Virgin Atlantic’s new flight options promise to make the journey easier and more accessible than ever.

Increased Flight Options for Disney Fans

Orlando, home to the famous Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, is one of the most visited cities in the United States, especially for families and Disney fans. By increasing the frequency of flights from Manchester, Virgin Atlantic is making it even easier for UK travelers to visit Orlando’s iconic attractions.

The expansion of flights offers even more direct access to this top-tier travel destination. Virgin Atlantic’s new summer 2026 schedule will provide additional options for passengers, ensuring flexibility for those planning their trips to Florida. The extra flights will cater to the increasing demand for direct travel to Orlando, especially as more families plan long-awaited trips to the world-renowned theme parks.

Whether you’re heading to Orlando for the first time or revisiting favorite attractions, Virgin Atlantic’s expanded services will get you there with ease, offering comfort and convenience on your way to the magic of Disney.

Virgin Atlantic’s 30-Year Milestone from Manchester

The expansion of Virgin Atlantic’s flight options from Manchester comes as the airline celebrates 30 years of service from the city. Since launching flights from Manchester Airport in 1996, Virgin Atlantic has connected the UK to destinations across the world, and its service to Orlando has become an integral part of that network.

Marking this milestone with new flights is a testament to the growing demand for travel to Orlando from the North of England. Manchester has long been a key hub for Virgin Atlantic, and this new expansion will help cater to the increasing number of travelers looking to fly directly to Florida. Virgin Atlantic’s commitment to Manchester underscores its dedication to providing accessible and premium travel options for passengers in the region.

Direct Access to Orlando’s Top Attractions

The direct flights from Manchester to Orlando offer passengers an easy and comfortable journey to some of the world’s most iconic theme parks. Walt Disney World Resort, the largest and most visited theme park complex in the world, continues to be a top destination for travelers from the UK. The resort’s four theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—are a major draw for families looking to experience the magic of Disney.

In addition to Disney World, Orlando offers an array of other attractions for all ages. The Universal Orlando Resort, which includes Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay, is another major attraction that draws millions of visitors each year. SeaWorld Orlando, along with numerous shopping and dining options, makes the city a well-rounded destination for tourists seeking fun, adventure, and relaxation.

Convenient and Comfortable Travel to Orlando

With the additional flights, Virgin Atlantic offers a premium flying experience that makes traveling to Orlando even more enjoyable. The airline is known for its high standard of service, comfortable seating, and entertainment options that make the journey to Florida a part of the vacation experience. The direct flight route from Manchester to Orlando helps passengers avoid long layovers, ensuring a quicker and more seamless travel experience.

For those looking for added luxury, Virgin Atlantic also provides premium cabins with additional space and amenities, making it the perfect option for travelers who want to start their Florida adventure in style. Whether you’re flying economy or first class, Virgin Atlantic ensures that passengers are well taken care of with excellent service from start to finish.

What This Means for Tourism in Orlando

As one of the busiest travel periods approaches in summer 2026, the added flights from Manchester are expected to help boost Orlando’s tourism sector even further. More flights mean more visitors to the city, contributing to the local economy by supporting hotels, restaurants, attractions, and other tourism-related businesses. The increased demand for Orlando’s famous attractions is expected to bring more travelers from across the UK, ensuring that the city remains a top destination for family vacations.

In addition to theme parks, Orlando also offers a wealth of other experiences. Visitors can explore the Kennedy Space Center, enjoy outdoor adventures in Gatorland or ICON Park, or relax in the beautiful Florida sunshine at the city’s luxury resorts. The airline expansion is set to enhance Orlando’s accessibility for both first-time visitors and returning tourists looking for a fun and unforgettable getaway.

Looking Ahead: More Flights and More Options for Orlando

With the added flights from Manchester, Virgin Atlantic’s service to Orlando is stronger than ever. The increased frequency and convenience of flights further solidify Orlando as one of the UK’s favorite family-friendly destinations.

Whether you’re visiting Walt Disney World Resort, attending a sports event, or enjoying the local attractions, the new summer 2026 flight schedule from Virgin Atlantic is designed to make your trip to Orlando easier, faster, and more enjoyable than ever before.

Orlando International (MCO) has earned a well-deserved spot as Seventeen Among the 50 Best Airports in the World for 2026, thanks to its ongoing transformation into a smart airport and its commitment to enhancing passenger experiences. With a $6 billion modernization plan, MCO has become a model of efficiency, combining cutting-edge technology, such as biometric boarding and AI-driven crowd management, with exceptional amenities. These advancements not only streamline airport operations but also improve comfort for travelers. The airport’s ability to handle record-breaking passenger volumes while maintaining a high standard of service has contributed to its impressive ranking.

MCO’s Unprecedented Growth in 2025-2026: Record-Breaking Traffic and Advanced Solutions

In 2025, Orlando International Airport welcomed more than 57.5 million passengers, setting a historic record for the busiest year in its history. With nearly 196,212 passengers traveling through the terminals on January 3, 2026, MCO is now recognized as one of the top 10 busiest airports in the United States. This growth is largely driven by the thriving tourism sector in Florida, with international traffic seeing a 10.1% increase by the end of 2025.

The expansion of direct flights, including new long-haul routes from Europe and Latin America, has also contributed to a significant rise in international passengers. As a result, MCO has been able to stay ahead of growing demand, all while prioritizing innovative solutions to manage increasing passenger flows effectively.

The Smart Airport Revolution: Technology Advancements at MCO

MCO’s $6 billion transformation is one of the most ambitious projects undertaken by any North American airport, marking a major step in the future of airport technology. The airport’s Terminal C has become a showcase of biometric security and advanced crowd management. Here’s a look at some of the innovations:

• Biometric Boarding: Terminal C has implemented 100% facial recognition for international arrivals and departures. This biometric system eliminates the need for physical document checks, drastically reducing wait times and increasing security.
• RFID Baggage Tracking: In February 2026, MCO introduced the RFID Tote System, providing 100% accuracy in tracking passengers’ luggage from check-in to baggage claim.
• AI-Driven Crowd Management: The Queue Management System (QMS) uses AI-powered sensors to monitor security lines and display real-time wait times. This system optimizes staffing levels and helps direct passengers to the shortest lines, reducing congestion.
• Experiential Media: MCO’s “The Portal” and “Windows on Orlando” in Terminal C offer immersive 12K digital experiences, showcasing the beauty of Florida through AI-generated art and cinematography, turning the airport into a visual attraction.

These advancements not only streamline airport operations but also make traveling through MCO more efficient and enjoyable, solidifying its reputation as a “smart airport” for the modern traveler.

Accessibility and Sustainability: MCO’s Commitment to Green and Smart Infrastructure

MCO’s transformation goes beyond technology. The Terminal C expansion is a LEED-certified facility, emphasizing sustainability and energy efficiency. With its use of passive optical networks (PON) and energy-saving IT systems, the airport has become a model for green infrastructure in the aviation industry.

The airport is also home to the Brightline High-Speed Rail station, offering seamless connectivity between Orlando and South Florida (including Miami and Fort Lauderdale). This modern rail service provides an eco-friendly and convenient alternative to driving, connecting Orlando to major tourism markets and reducing carbon footprints.

How MCO’s Growth Supports Future Travel

Orlando International’s growth and innovations play a significant role in enhancing travel experiences, both for tourists and business travelers. The integration of smart airport systems allows for faster check-ins, smoother security processes, and more efficient baggage handling. With these improvements, MCO is well-positioned to handle future increases in air travel, ensuring that it remains a top choice for international visitors.

For tourists, particularly those visiting for leisure or family holidays, the ability to navigate the airport quickly and efficiently translates to less stress and more time to enjoy the city’s world-famous attractions. Business travelers benefit from the efficient processes as well, with shorter wait times and more reliable travel schedules. With 2 direct flights per week from London Heathrow and connections to numerous global destinations, MCO remains an essential gateway to the U.S.

Quick Travel Tips for MCO Passengers

• Take Advantage of Biometric Boarding: MCO offers biometric boarding at many international gates, reducing the need for physical documents and speeding up your journey.
• Download the NextFly App: This app offers real-time updates on gate changes, baggage tracking, and arrival reminders to keep you on top of your travel plans.
• Reserve Security Slots: Use MCO Reserve to pre-book your security screening time, ensuring you avoid long wait times and start your trip stress-free.
• Stay Informed on Flight Status: MCO’s digital information screens and airport apps provide live updates, so you can stay informed about delays, gate changes, and other important travel details.
• Explore Local Dining Options: Take a moment to enjoy the world-class dining at MCO, including freshly made sushi at Infinity Bar in Terminal C, offering a taste of luxury before you fly.

Global Smart Airport Leaders – Fully Integrated Ecosystems

Leading the global index are airports demonstrating the most advanced, end-to-end smart airport ecosystems currently in operation. These airports have embedded artificial intelligence, biometrics, automation, digital twins, and real-time data intelligence across passenger journeys, airside and landside operations, and long-term infrastructure planning—setting the global benchmark for intelligent aviation infrastructure.

Source: https://finance.yahoo.com/

Conclusion: A Future-Ready Orlando International Airport

As Orlando International Airport continues its transformation into a smart, high-tech facility, it is setting new standards for the airport experience. With advanced biometric systems, AI-driven crowd management, and sustainability initiatives, MCO is redefining what it means to be a modern airport. With record-breaking passenger numbers and continuous innovations, MCO is not only enhancing travel for today’s passengers but also paving the way for future generations of travelers.

Key Points:

• Brightline High-Speed Rail offers eco-friendly transport between Orlando and South Florida.
• Orlando International Airport remains Florida’s busiest, handling over 57.5 million passengers in 2025.
• $6 billion transformation focused on biometric security, AI-powered crowd management, and sustainability.
• Direct flights from major cities like London Heathrow and Miami make MCO highly accessible.
• Real-time digital experiences and RFID baggage tracking ensure smoother travel for all passengers.

Image Credit: https://flymco.com/

Universal Orlando Resort in Orlando, Florida, is one of the biggest purveyors of entertainment in the world. Recently, however, due to the ever-rising hotel costs of the resort, Universal has implemented a policy to increase the costs of the hotels. This has garnered the discontent of many fans. The resort is designed to provide its customers with the most cutting-edge attractions and the most enjoyable experiences. However, due to the ills of inflation, acquiring a room at the hotel will now be ever more expensive.

Universal is one of the most affordable destinations in the vacation hotel industry, since all of the hotels at the resort are relatively cheap in comparison to all of the attractions at the theme park. However, this is changing rapidly, as the increases in hotel prices are killing competition, and there is little to no notice to the large number of target customers.

The Ever Growing Expansion of Universal Orlando

The large number of rapid expansions at Universal Orlando are to no one’s surprise. It is now a 4-park destination. The parks are Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and the newest addition, Epic Universe, along with Volcano Bay.

The impact of these changes can be seen across how the company operates. With the resort being able to offer more, and now being able to operate at full capacity, it is able to pull in much more business. Each of the parks now has more options than ever: Studios has classic rides, Islands has the heart-pounding rides, Volcano Bay has the water rides, and now Epic Universe has the full immersive experiences! With the addition of a fourth park, Epic Universe, more guests than ever are able to visit Universal, including guests who may not have specifically considered Universal a destination.

With demand now visibly higher than ever, and the addition of a fourth park to the destination, it is no surprise the cranking up of the demand for overnight accommodations provided by Universal.

The Price Surge: A Response to Demand

With the demand increasing for accommodations, it is only a matter of time before prices adjust to the demand. This has now been the case as more guests are arriving at Universal Orlando Resort to visit the attractions, and are left with no option but to pay more to stay in the resort.

Throughout history, Universal has been known for its competitive pricing, presenting them to be a viable option for families and thrill-seekers alike. Opening Epic Universe and the direct increase in visitors has increased the need for more accommodations and more premium experiences, thus driving costs up.

The price of the resort’s hotel, once a bargain, has become a sore spot for some. Longtime Universal fans have been vocal about how sudden the price increase is, feeling as if the resort is now a success at their expense. While many understand that the larger the price increases, the more the amenities add to the resort, the massive increase in prices has many pondering whether Universal Orlando Resort will be a budget family-friendly destination.

Universal’s Ongoing Transformation: The Future of the Resorts

These price increases across the hotels are not likely to be a one-time event. Increased monetary commitment is being made to the development of the Universal Orlando Resort and four other amusement parks that will be developed in the future. Universal expanding its offerings will likely cause the company to attract and retain a vastly different demographic than what has been in place. The ability to keep the guests will be driven by the addition of Epic Universe, which will prompt the steering of competitive focus towards Disney’s parks in the Orlando area.

Additionally, the positive reception of Epic Universe has likely decreased to a significant degree the criticism directed towards Universal with regard to the price elasticity of the firm and the prices attached to their hotel offerings. Consumers discriminate with price increases, especially with regards to hotels, and simply direct their focus towards premium offerings with the adjusted price.

Some customers may think Universal Orlando Resort’s new prices are too high, but most customers remember why they keep returning. Universal has four theme parks with new activities added every season. The parks cater to all customers with their family-friendly attractions, high-speed roller coasters, and water parks. Universal Orlando Resort is a prime tourist destination.

Conclusion: Expanding Resort, Rising Prices

Universal’s increasing hotel rates is a direct correlation to the growing size, and popularity, of the Universal Orlando Resort. With growing demand, the addition of Epic Universe, and Universal’s newly needed larger hotels, price increases on their stays are to be expected. The price increases may seem negative on paper, but they are a direct result of Universal’s increased desirability as a tourist destination.

Visitors to Orlando should note that Universal Orlando Resort is now operating at a new level. This includes more parks, higher attendance, and increased prices. Guests’ expectations and budgets will have to change to adapt to these new and permanent changes.

This new higher-priced resort, new hotel rates, and additional expansion at Universal Orlando Resort will keep them a top competitor in the global theme parks industry. But now the question is, will they be priced out from their loyal fan base, or will their new pricing attract a whole new crowd looking for a premium experience?