Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest leisure airports in the world. The biggest challenges at MCO are family travel overload, long security lines, terminal confusion, and late-night arrivals, not lack of facilities.
This guide helps passengers solve problems on the spot at MCO, not just understand airport basics.
MCO Airport Layout (Where Most Passengers Get Confused)
MCO is simple on paper but confusing in practice.
- Main Terminal + Airside Concourses: All check-in and security start at the main terminal, then passengers take people movers to gates.
- Airside A, B, C, and D: Once you go to an airside, you must return to the main terminal to change airsides.
- Security resets: Each airside has its own TSA checkpoint.
Action tip: Always confirm your airside before clearing security—wrong choice means full re-screening.
Airlines at MCO (Handling Airline Problems Fast)
MCO has heavy airline volume but limited patience for delays.
- Gate agents are critical: During disruptions, rebooking happens faster at gates than ticket counters.
- Charter and leisure airlines: Some close counters early, limiting late-night help.
- Code-share flights: Passengers often go to the wrong desk and lose time.
Action tip: If delayed, speak to the nearest gate agent before leaving the airside.
Flight Delays, Cancellations & Tourist-Driven Chaos
MCO delays are often people-driven, not operational.
- Peak vacation surges: Holidays and school breaks overload check-in and security.
- Weather delays: Florida storms cause sudden ground stops.
- Overnight cancellations: Hotels are not guaranteed—passengers must ask immediately.
Action tip: Handle rebooking before exiting security—options drop fast once you leave.
TSA Security at MCO (The #1 Pain Point)
Security is the biggest risk at Orlando Airport.
- Extremely long lines: Especially mornings and weekends.
- Family screening delays: Strollers, car seats, and bags slow checkpoints.
- Missed flights: Airlines may help only if TSA delays are documented.
Action tip: Arrive earlier than standard advice, especially with children.
Moving Between Terminals & Gates at MCO
Distance isn’t huge—but mistakes are costly.
- People movers: Required to reach gates from the main terminal.
- Wrong airside: Means exiting, rechecking bags sometimes, and full TSA again.
- Late boarding: People mover delays can stack quickly.
Action tip: If unsure, ask airport staff before entering security.
Baggage Problems at MCO (Very Common)
Baggage issues spike due to vacation volume.
- Delayed bags: Common during peak travel days.
- Oversized items: Strollers, golf bags, and theme-park gear are handled separately.
- Late arrivals: Baggage desks may close before last bags arrive.
Action tip: Report baggage issues immediately—do not leave the claim area.
International Arrivals & Customs at MCO
International travel at MCO is growing fast.
- Customs congestion: Arrival waves cause long waits.
- Missed domestic connections: Airlines rebook only after customs exit.
- Global Entry: Speeds immigration but not baggage delivery.
Action tip: Schedule long domestic connections after international arrivals.
Ground Transportation Problems at MCO
Transportation confusion causes major stress.
- Ride-share zones: Strictly enforced and easy to miss.
- Rental cars: Large on-site facilities but long lines during peak days.
- Hotel shuttles: Limited late-night availability.
Action tip: Confirm pickup zones before requesting transport.
Food, Lounges & Survival During Long Delays
MCO services are uneven by airside.
- Dining availability: Some airsides have limited late-night food.
- Lounges: Useful but often overcrowded during disruptions.
- Overnight delays: Seating exists, but quiet rest areas are limited.
Action tip: Ask staff which airsides remain fully operational late at night.
Accessibility & Family Assistance at MCO
Family travel defines MCO.
- Wheelchair services: Must be arranged through airlines.
- Stroller handling: Must be coordinated early at gates.
- Nursing rooms: Available but limited during peak times.
Action tip: Request family or accessibility assistance during check-in, not boarding.
Lost & Found, Help Desks & Emergency Support
Knowing ownership saves hours.
- Airline items: Contact airline baggage or gate staff.
- Terminal items: Airport lost & found handles non-airline property.
- Security concerns: Airport police operate throughout MCO.
Action tip: Identify whether your issue is airline-related or airport-related first.
MCO Travel Tips That Actually Save Vacations
- Arrive much earlier than usual
- Double-check airside before security
- Handle problems inside security
- Expect delays during holidays and weekends