Disney's Magical Express commenced operations in 2005. It initially faced strong opposition from the Greater Orlando Livery Association and Orlando-area ground transportation companies and taxi cab operators, who argued that it allows Disney to "whisk away" potential customers who would otherwise have continued on to a taxi cab or private transportation service for transportation to their hotel. This keeps them from leaving Disney property during their trip to spend money elsewhere, since they do not need a rental car or other transportation to get to their resort. In 2015,
Universal Orlando, Disney's main competitor in the area, announced their own airport shuttle to their resort, Universal's SuperStar Shuttle. It was initially operated by Escot Bus Lines, until Mears Transportation took over as of April 1, 2021. which raised concerns over the future of Disney's Magical Express. In January 2021,
The Walt Disney Company announced the discontinuation of Disney's Magical Express, which was made effective January 1, 2022, citing changes to consumer preferences as the reason; the announcement was subject to controversy. Transportation from the resorts to the airport continued until January 10, 2022. ==Service==