Disney World discontinuing Disney’s Magical Express service in 2022

The Walt Disney World Resort today announced it will stop its free airport transportation service – Disney’s Magical Express – starting with arrivals on Jan. 1, 2022.

This one perk, which started in 2005, was a godsend to many families who did not have to either pay for a taxi or rent a car when heading to Disney World. The service took your bags from the arrival carousels and delivered them to your hotel room, while delivering you to your resort.

For many this was a way of life. For Disney, it also served the purpose to make sure that you would stay on Disney property, unless you were planning on renting a car or taking other transportation, It seemed like a win-win situation.

However, during COVID-19 one of the perks of Disney’s Magical Express – the luggage delivery – has gone. And with the travel industry now anticipating not getting back to normal until next year as the COVID-19 vaccine slowly rolls out across the country, this appears to be another cut Disney is instituting.

“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,” Disney announced on the Disney Parks Blog.

The airport bus service will continue to operate for new and existing reservations made at Disney Resort hotels for arrivals throughout 2021.

Mears Transportation operates the service for Disney. “Walt Disney 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,” Mears spokesperson Roger Chapin told Spectrum News.

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.

This decision has already been met with some disdain and disappointment from guests.” I’m so sad to hear this! Magical Express was the main reason we stayed on property during our twice-rescheduled trip this year. Looking at prices and amenities at resorts like the Waldorf-Astoria and comparing them to Deluxe resorts, the main thing that helped me make my decision to stay on property was the convenience of the Magical Express. Now I will be happy to try offsite options that are cheaper but more luxurious,” a person by the name of Alison responded on the Parks Blog in the comments section.

“Ugh not what I would expect from Disney. Please reconsider….Magical Express was a wonderful service and added to the “Magic”. Yet another example of Disney watering down the magic….it’s beginning to be heartbreaking what is happening to my happy place….” Mike chimed in on the blog comments as well.