Walt Disney World's Magical Express Reports a Decrease in Numbers

The number of tourists that Walt Disney World bused away from Orlando International Airport dipped 1 percent during the first half of the year, according to new airport figures.

The giant resort's shuttle-and-luggage service, Disney's Magical Express, ferried a little more than 1.1 million arriving passengers from the airport to Disney World hotels between January and June.

That was about 11,000 fewer than during the first six months of 2011. It was also the lowest total for the first half of a year since 2007.

The shuttle's 2012 performance was dragged down by an abysmal May, in which Magical Express ridership plunged 14.1 percent — from nearly 212,000 in May 2011 to less than 182,000. Traffic rebounded slightly in June, rising 2.5 percent to 184,000.

"Ridership alone is not an indicator of business performance," Disney spokeswoman Andrea Finger said. "Disney's Magical Express is a popular service provided to our guests. While our guests appreciate the service, it also positively impacts the airport and our community in numerous ways."

Disney’s Magical Express is a popular service provided to our guests. While our guests appreciate the service, it also positively impacts the airport and our community in numerous ways.

The shuttle is provided complimentary to hotel guests, and serves as a lure to encourage visitors to stay in Disney hotels rather than cheaper, off-property hotels.