So happy to report that I was in and out of Epcot today and had a chance to discuss the plans for International Gateway once the Skyliner opens with two Cast Members.
The area around guest relations and ticket sales at International Gateway is newly walled off. Security checkpoints are set up outside of that area and a temporary touchpoint area for entry is set up near the World Traveler gift shop.
The area was clearly being redone around the impending Skyliner opening, so I stopped to chat with a few Cast Members about the plans.
Most importantly, I was told that security checks are going to be done BEFORE guests board the Skyliner. So, much like riding the monorail from the Magic Kingdom resorts, you will be prechecked before getting to the park and will not need to go through bag check or the metal detectors again at International Gateway.
This is apparently also going to be the case for guests boarding the Friendship Boats – so the only guests needing to go through security at International Gateway would be those entering on foot from the Epcot Resorts.
Moreover, they are going to be adding a ton of Magic Band touchpoints for park entry at International Gateway, which should further alleviate any increase in wait times to enter the park through this back entrance.
I don’t know about you but I was so relieved to hear this news. I’m such a fan of the quiet International Gateway entrance to Epcot that leads you directly into World Showcase and have been so concerned with how the Skyliner crowds would affect traffic flow here.
It sounds like, at least with respect to entry *into* Epcot from this back gate, things will go smoothly.
