An Orlando International Airport (MCO) Handbook: Services, Terminals, & Kiosks

Wondering how to make your next aviation experience seamless? If so, then worry not! We have got you covered. For flyers flying from the Orlando International Airport (MCO), this guide will walk you through the terminals, airport layout, shop names and locations, lounges, and other facilities available there for your convenience.

So, no matter whether you are flying for a family trip, business, or want to explore the world, the airport features a number of perks and facilities ensuring that you do not face any kind of issues or stress from the start till the end of your journey. So, whether you are arriving there or departing to your dream destination, learn all about the MCO airport, terminals, check-ins, baggage claims, shops, lounges, and security wait times for a smoother journey.

A Basic Layout To Orlando International Airport (MCO)

The Orlando International Airport is the primary international airport serving Orlando, Florida. The airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, handling over millions of passengers annually. The airport features 32 terminals, serves over 40 airlines, operates flights to over 130 destinations, and facilitates a number of services in order to provide assistance and convenience to flyers.

How Many Terminals Does Orlando Airport Have? 

If you are searching for the MCO airport terminals, this section has got you covered. The Orlando International Airport has 3 main passenger terminals that handle all international and domestic arrivals and departures for flyers and feature world-class amenities for a smoother and seamless journey. 

The MCO terminal includes:-

A Terminal

• Level 3
  • Airline Check-In
  • Ride Share
  • Currency Exchange
• Level 2
  • Bag Claim Carousels 1-16
  • Ride Share
• Level 1
  • Bag Claim 8A – Virgin Atlantic
  • Lost & Found
  • On Airport Rental Car & Shuttles

Terminal 2

• Level 3
  • Airline Check-In
  • Ride Share 
• Level 2
  • Bag Claim Carousels 20-32
  • Ride Share (Uber, Lyft and Wingz)
  • TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center
• Level 1
  • Bag Check – Southwest 
  • Bag Claim 28B
  • On Airport Rental Car & Shuttles

Terminal 3

• Level 6
  • Bag Claim
  • Customs & Immigration
  • Meet & Greet Area
  • Ride Share
• Level 4
  • Bridge to Garage C
  • Bridge to Ground Transportation Facility
  • Nursing Room
  • On-Airport Rental Car Agencies
• Level 2
  • Airline Check-In
• Level 1
  • Global Entry Enrollment Center
  • Lost & Found

Orlando International Airport Airlines & Their Departure Locations

There are over 40 airlines that fly from the Orlando International Airport (MCO). These airlines offer non-stop flights to over 130 destinations across the world and are suitable for both long- and short-haul flights. You can check out the table to get the list of airlines along with their departure terminal locations, security checkpoints, TSA PreCheck availability, gates, and contact numbers. So, keep reading to learn more about it. 

How To Complete Pre-Departure Kiosks at MCO Airport 

Completing the preboarding procedures at the Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a simple task. Passengers can first use the flight check-in kiosks, baggage handling, and the security screening kiosk to reach their departure gates. So, below is the detailed information about these procedures that you need to complete on your departure date.

Orlando International Airport Check-in

MCO check-in is a smoother and simpler process to complete. Passengers can select from a variety of options, including online check-in, offline airport counter kiosks, self-check-in, and curbside check-in kiosks, and choose one that suits their needs. Apart from this, the airport also recommends that you arrive at the airport early, at least 2 hours ahead of a domestic departure and 3 hours ahead of an international flight, to locate your check-in area, use the kiosk, and get your boarding passes. 

Baggage Handling at Orlando Int Airport

Once passengers are done with their check-in process, they can proceed to the baggage handling counters if they are traveling with checked bags. You can collect your baggage tags, wrap your luggage, and send it to the airplane’s hold before boarding. 

Apart from this, if you are not flying with checked bags, you can skip this process and proceed straight to the security screening area to complete the security checks.

TSA Security Wait Times At Orlando Airport

The MCO security wait times generally ranged from 2-5 minutes during normal travel hours. However, if you are flying during heavy passenger traffic, you may face longer wait times, with wait times ranging from 10-30 minutes. 

Passengers can take advantage of TSA PreCheck and CLEAR security screening programs to access expedit screening lanes for faster kiosks.

Services Available At Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport provides a broad range of passenger services designed to make travel easier, more accessible, and more comfortable. From accessibility assistance and family facilities to baggage support, security programs, lounges, and passenger information, MCO airport offers services for travelers throughout the airport.

• Free Wi-Fi: MCO Airport provides complimentary wireless internet access for passengers throughout the airport. Travelers can use the airport Wi-Fi to stay in touch with family, check travel information, or work while waiting for a flight.
• Airport Information Services: The airport’s information booths and airport staff are available to help passengers find gates, baggage claim areas, restrooms, lounges, and other facilities. Travelers can also get general assistance with navigating Orlando International Airport and its terminals.
• Charging Stations: Charging facilities are available in passenger areas and near seating locations throughout the airport. Travelers can use these facilities to recharge smartphones, tablets, laptops, and other electronic devices.
• Concierge Services: MCO airport provides concierge services for travelers who need personalized assistance during their airport visit. These services can support families, groups, business travelers, and passengers looking for additional help while traveling.
• Baggage Wrapping: Baggage-wrapping services are available at the respective locations within the Orlando International Airport. This service allows travelers to have checked luggage professionally wrapped before proceeding to the departure process.
• Wheelchair Assistance: Passengers who require wheelchair assistance can arrange support through their airline. Wheelchair services are available throughout the airport to help passengers move between check-in, security, gates, baggage claim, and other areas.
• Skycap Services: Skycaps provide passenger assistance that can include wheelchair support, baggage handling, and curbside check-in where offered by an airline. These services can be particularly helpful for passengers who need additional assistance before entering the terminal.
• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program: MCO participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program for travelers with non-visible disabilities. Passengers can use the Sunflower symbol to discreetly indicate that they may need additional time, patience, or assistance.
• Autism and Sensory Support: MCO provides special services to make air travel more manageable for passengers with autism and sensory sensitivities. These include sensory-support resources and respective spaces where travelers can take a break from the busy airport environment.
• Annie’s Space Sensory Room: Annie’s Space provides a quiet environment for travelers who need a break from the noise and activity of the terminal. The sensory room can be particularly useful for children and adults with sensory sensitivities.
• Family Restrooms: Family and companion-care restrooms provide additional privacy and space for travelers accompanying children or passengers who require assistance. These facilities are in different areas of the airport.
• Nursing Rooms: Orlando International Airport provides nursing rooms and nursing pods for parents traveling with infants. Facilities are available in multiple terminal and gate areas, providing a more private and comfortable space for nursing and pumping.
• Accessibility Services: Orlando International Airport provides accessible facilities and routes for passengers with disabilities. Accessible restrooms, elevators, telephones, accessible parking features, and other accommodations are available throughout the airport.
• Baby Care Facilities: Families traveling with infants can use this service for feeding, nursing, and caring for young children. These amenities help parents manage the needs of babies during longer waits and connections.
• Pet Relief Areas: A respective pet relief area is available for travelers flying with pets and service animals. These areas allow passengers to care for their animals before continuing through the airport or boarding their flight.
• Interfaith Chapel: The airport provides an interfaith chapel where passengers can find a quiet place for prayer, meditation, or reflection. The chapel is in the Terminal A and B gate area beyond security.
• Serenity Rooms: Terminal C includes serenity rooms designed to provide a calm environment for passengers. These spaces offer travelers an opportunity to relax and step away from the activity of the main terminal.
• Airport Lounges: Orlando International Airport (MCO) has several airline and independent lounges where eligible passengers can relax before their flights. Lounge facilities may include comfortable seating, work areas, Wi-Fi, refreshments, and other traveler amenities.
• Lost and Found: MCO airport also provides Lost and Found resources for passengers who misplace belongings inside the airport. Travelers can use the airport’s Lost and Found information to report or recover eligible items left in terminals and other airport areas.
• Luggage Carts: Luggage carts are available throughout the airport to help passengers transport their baggage. They can be particularly useful when moving between baggage claim, terminal facilities, and other passenger areas.
• Currency Exchange: Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers currency exchange services at several locations for passengers who need to exchange foreign currency without leaving the airport. These facilities can be particularly useful for international travelers arriving at or departing from MCO.
• ATMs: ATMs are available at various locations throughout Orlando International Airport, which passengers may use to withdraw cash and access basic banking functions during their journey.
• Public Telephones: Public telephones are available at the airport to help passengers who need to make calls. Additionally, some telephone facilities include accessibility features such as volume controls and compatibility with hearing aids.
• TTY Services: TTY facilities are available to support passengers who use text telephone communication. These services provide an accessible communication option for travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing.
• MCO Reserve: MCO Reserve is a screening program that allows eligible passengers to reserve a specific time for airport security screening. The service can help travelers better plan when they arrive at the airport and reduce uncertainty around the security process.
• TSA Cares Assistance: The Orlando International Airport Travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other special circumstances can seek assistance through TSA Cares. The program provides information about security-screening procedures and available accommodations.
• Wayfinding Assistance: Airport signage and wayfinding systems help passengers navigate between check-in areas, security checkpoints, gate areas, baggage claim, and other facilities. Information is available throughout the terminals to make navigation easier.
• Terminal Link: The Terminal Link provides an automated connection between key areas of the airport complex. It helps passengers move between terminal facilities and connected airport areas without needing to walk the entire distance.
• Terminal C Shuttle: A shuttle service connects Terminal C with Terminal B and the train-station area. This provides an additional way for passengers to move between Terminal C and the main terminal facilities.
• Airport Hotel: Orlando International Airport has an on-airport hotel, the Hyatt Regency, which is available within the airport complex and provides convenient accommodation services for travelers. The hotel is used by passengers who have early flights, late arrivals, or longer connection times.
• Elderly Passenger Assistance: Travelers above the elderly age limit will also get additional help from their airline or Orlando International Airport support staff. The available assistance may include mobility support, baggage help, and guidance through terminal facilities.
• Unaccompanied Minor Support: Airlines operating from the MCO Airport have procedures for children traveling without an accompanying adult. Parents and guardians should coordinate directly with the airline regarding its specific unaccompanied minor requirements and services.
• Emergency Assistance: Emergency services and communication systems are available throughout MCO Airport to support passengers and airport personnel. Travelers requiring immediate assistance can use emergency communication facilities to contact airport staff immediately.
• Flight Information: Passengers can access flight information to monitor arrivals, departures, delays, cancellations, and other changes. MCO Airport provides online flight information and airport displays to help travelers stay up to date.
• Online Airport Resources: The official MCO airport’s official website provides passengers with access to flight information, terminal maps, airport services, FAQs, accessibility information, and other travel resources before and during their journey.

Ground Transportation at Orlando International Airport

Orlando International Airport (MCO) provides a wide range of ground transportation options for passengers traveling to nearby hotels, Orlando attractions, downtown areas, cruise ports, and destinations throughout Central Florida. 

Moreover, travelers can choose from local buses, hotel shuttles, rideshare services, taxis, shuttle vans, peer-to-peer vehicle sharing, trains, rental cars, and private vehicles for hire. In addition, MCO offers out-of-town shuttles and cruise transfers for passengers traveling beyond the immediate Orlando area. You will find available transportation options at MCO airport below.

1. Hotel Shuttles

Hotel shuttles provide a convenient option for passengers staying at nearby hotels. In particular, Universal’s SuperStar Shuttle operates from Terminal A Level 1 and Terminal C Level 1. Other local hotels also provide complimentary transportation to and from MCO.

• Terminal A: Commercial Lane spaces A1-A4 and A42-A45
• Terminal B: Commercial Lane spaces B1-B4 and B40
• Terminal C: Commercial Lane spaces C270-C271
• Train Station: Commercial Lane spaces C7-C8
• Universal’s SuperStar Shuttle: Terminal A, Level 1, spaces A30-A33; Terminal C, Level 1, spaces C282-C283

2. Local Bus

Passengers can use local bus services to reach several popular Orlando destinations. Furthermore, Lynx operates from Terminal A’s Ground Transportation Level (Level 1), while charter buses operate from Terminals A, B, and C.

Destinations include:

• Downtown Orlando
• Destination Parkway
• Florida Mall
• Orange County Convention Center
• Premium Outlets
• Sand Lake Road SunRail Station
• SeaWorld

Cost: $2 per destination or $4.50 for an all-day pass.

3. Peer-to-Peer Vehicle Sharing

MCO permits peer-to-peer vehicle sharing in Surface Lot “Atlantis.” To reach the lot, passengers from Terminals A and B can take the Terminal Link to the Train Station, while passengers from Terminal C can follow signs to the Train Station. Afterward, passengers can follow the signs to Surface Lots and take the shuttle to Atlantis.

• The shuttle to Surface Lot Atlantis arrives approximately every 10 minutes.
• Passengers can use the curb in front of the Train Station for quick pick-ups or drop-offs.
• Surface Lots are accessible through Level 1 of the Train Station.

4. Ride Share

MCO airport also has rideshare services including Uber, Lyft, Wingz, and KreweCar. This service is available for passengers who need affordable travel options and do not mind sharing their vehicle with other passengers. For drop-offs, passengers can use the departure curbs, while for pick-ups, you can reach the arrival areas depending on the terminal and time.

5. Shuttle Vans

Shuttle vans offer shared transportation to destinations around Orlando and beyond. Additionally, MCO’s shuttle van services include Mears Destination Services, hotel shuttles, and out-of-town shuttles.

Important details:

• Mears Destination Services provides buses, sedans, limousines, and shuttle vans.
• Shuttle van fares charge per person.
• Passengers should check with the attendant for round-trip fares and children’s rates.
• Out-of-town shuttles operate from Terminal A spaces A14-A15, Terminal B spaces B14-B15, and Terminal C spaces C205-C209.

6. SunRail

SunRail connects with MCO through a bus link from the Sand Lake Road SunRail station. Currently, SunRail operates Monday through Friday from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. Meanwhile, the Lynx bus stop serving the connection is at Terminal A, Level 1, Commercial Lane, space A38-A41.

• Service: Monday–Friday
• Operating hours: 5:30 AM–9:30 PM
• Airport bus stop: Terminal A, Level 1
• SunRail contact: 1-855-RAIL-411

7. Taxi Cabs

Taxis provide direct transportation from the airport to destinations throughout the Orlando area. Moreover, airport taxis use meters rather than flat-rate fares, so the final fare can vary from the airport’s approximate rates.

Pickup locations:

• Terminal A: Ground Transportation Curb, Level 1, spaces A22-A25
• Terminal B: Ground Transportation Curb, Level 1, spaces B30-B34
• Terminal C: Arrivals Curb, Level 6

8. Vehicles for Hire

Passengers can also arrange transportation through permitted vehicles-for-hire providers. In this case, these companies can pick up passengers when they have a pre-arranged transportation service. MCO also directs passengers to this option for transportation to destinations such as the Amtrak and Greyhound stations.

9. Out-of-Town Shuttles

An Out-of-town shuttle connects MCO Airport with destinations across Central Florida and beyond. You can check out various shuttle providers and locations where they serve below in the table.

Therefore, passengers should contact the shuttle operator directly to confirm availability, schedules, destinations, fares, and reservations because not every destination operates on a regular schedule.

10. Cruise Transfers

MCO also provides transportation options for passengers traveling to Port Canaveral, which sits approximately 42 miles from the airport. In addition, some cruise lines provide their own transportation, while passengers can also use the airport’s ground transportation providers and on-site cruise transfer companies.

For reservations and fares, passengers should contact the provider directly. Alternatively, travelers can consider out-of-town shuttles, local buses, taxis, or vehicles for hire.

11. Brightline

Brightline operates from the Orlando International Airport Train Station and connects Central Florida with South Florida. With this service, passengers can travel from MCO to West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Aventura, and Miami. Additionally, the station operates daily from 5 AM to 11 PM.

• Station: MCO Train Station
• Hours: Daily, 5 AM–11 PM
• Destinations: West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Aventura, and Miami
• Brightline: 831-539-2901

12. Greyhound

Greyhound’s station sits approximately 13 miles from MCO. Similarly, passengers can reach it by bus, taxi, or vehicle for hire. Using Lynx, travelers can take Bus #11 to North Garland Avenue and then Bus #25 to 500 John Young Parkway.

• Approximate travel time: 60 minutes
• Lynx fare: $2
• Greyhound station: 555 N. John Young Parkway

Approximate Ground Transportation Rates

For the aforementioned ground transportation options, MCO Airport has fixed rates for several popular destinations. However, these fares can vary, particularly for metered taxis and services that calculate prices based on the passenger’s destination. You can take a look at the table below for more info.

Overall, MCO gives passengers several ways to reach Orlando, nearby attractions, hotels, cruise terminals, and other Florida destinations. Therefore, travelers can choose the option that best fits their destination, schedule, group size, and budget.

Parking Availability And Rates at MCO Airport

Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers a number of parking options for travelers, including short-term, long-term, economy, and valet parking. Passengers can choose a parking facility based on their terminal, trip duration, and convenience. 

Moreover, these respective parking areas sit near the airport terminals, making it easier for travelers to park their vehicles and access the terminals without any delays. To access the service, understanding the available parking options in advance can help you pick a suitable facility and enjoy a smoother airport experience. You can check out the table below and select the parking option that best suits your needs. 

Accessible Parking Information

MCO’s Duty-Free Shops To Explore

Discover a variety of shops at Orlando International Airport (MCO), from travel essentials and convenience stores to fashion, souvenirs, and specialty retailers. Whether you need a last-minute item or want to browse before your flight, MCO offers shopping options across its terminals and gate areas. 

Dining Areas And Food Courts at MCO

MCO offers a wide selection of dining options to suit every traveler, including quick bites, coffee shops, casual restaurants, and sit-down dining. Travelers can enjoy local flavors as well as familiar favorites, with options available throughout the airport terminals and concourses. 

Lounges And Other Relaxation Spaces At The Airport

Relax and recharge before your flight with MCO’s selection of airport lounges. Depending on your airline, membership, or eligible credit card, you can find spaces offering comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and a quieter atmosphere away from the main terminal areas.

Conclusion

Now that you are familiar with the layout of Orlando International Airport (MCO), what are you waiting for? Navigate the airport like a seasoned traveler and, thus, access all the amenities awaiting you at the different passenger terminals as per your convenience. Whether you are flying within the region or internationally across continents, you can therefore make your journey seamless from the moment you enter the MCO airport facility. So, plan ahead and enjoy a hassle-free journey along with your companions. 

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