Orlando International Airport, FL (MCO) MCO: Departure times and transfers

Flying from/to Orlando International Airport

If you are planning to fly to/from Orlando International Airport, check out our tips on what’s the best way to travel between the airport and the city center. It’s always good to know, what’s the most convenient way to get to your destination. You can also find some data on the Orlando International Airport facilities and some local tips on the airport itself.

Arriving at Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport is the 29th-busiest airport in the world. It serves as a focus city for Frontier Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and others, and as a hub for Silver Airways. The airport is a gateway for international travelers in the mid-Florida area. It has 850 daily flights with 44 airlines, and it serves 135 domestic and international destinations. The airport is open 24 hours every day, but the security checks and check-in counters open according to the flight schedule. The airport is one of the largest in terms of area in the USA. Orlando is best known for its world-famous Disney World theme park and warm climate.

What's the best way to get from Orlando International Airport to the city center?

The public bus is the best means of travel from Orlando International Airport to the city center. With the airport between two expressways, road transport to the city center is fast. Therefore, it's best for travelers to board a public bus from the airport where possible. Alternatively, if travelers have already booked a hotel in the city, they could request a hotel shuttle, or opt for a private one. The airport has designated shuttle pick-up points at Terminal A and B. Taxis are also available at the airport. For travelers wanting to drive themselves to the city center, there are car rentals onsite. Vehicle rentals can be reserved in advance.

How far is the city center from Orlando International Airport?

The airport is 11.1 miles (18 kilometers) from Orlando city center. If travelers want to go to the city center by bus, they can board a local public bus at Terminal A, Level 1. It takes 40 minutes to the city center using Lynx Bus 11, which travels to the city center via the Orange Avenue route. Additionally, travelers can opt for a private shuttle or taxi to get to the city center. It would take 25 to 50 minutes to get to Downtown Orlando, depending on the traffic. The airport also allows curb pick-ups, so travelers could request a ride using apps such as Uber and Lyft.

What services are there at Orlando International Airport?

The spacious main terminal at Orlando Airport boasts a range of amenities to ensure travelers relax and enjoy themselves before their flights. It offers free and unlimited WiFi, plus numerous secure charging outlets. There are also over 150 shops and restaurants in the main terminal travelers can explore, although very few of them stay open for 24 hours. Travelers may also rest or take a quick shower at one of the airport's lounges. Some lounges may require travelers to have a membership pass, while others charge an entrance fee. There are baggage carts throughout the airport, as well as ATMs. Travelers with pets can make use of the airport's two outdoor pet relief areas.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Orlando Airport has parking spots for people with disabilities in Terminals A and B. There's also wheelchair assistance on arrival, provided travelers book a spot 48 hours earlier. Moving walkways take travelers from the parking level to the main terminal, and there's a roll-on/roll-off rail system that requires no change of floor level to take travelers from the landside terminal to the airside terminal. At the airport, there are automated people movers, escalators, elevators, and moving walkways to minimize the walking distance for passengers. Maps are provided to guide travelers to their gate and other key areas of the airport.

Local tips: what to know before flying to Orlando International Airport

When flying to and from the airport, travelers will want to check whether their selected airline uses Terminal A or B. It will make it easier for travelers to arrange their parking or pick-up spot. If local public transport isn't convenient, travelers can book a seat on a private shuttle before their trip. Anyone renting a car should note that Florida law requires all passengers under five years old has a child seat. Children's seats can be requested along with car rentals. Travelers considering spending the night in Orlando International Airport could try out one of the lounges. Some of them don't require membership.