Arriving on Time at MCO Airport: A Traveler’s Essential Guide

What to Consider for On-Time Arrival at MCO Airport

Known as ‘The Theme Park Capital of the World', Orlando is home to multiple world-famous sites. These iconic locations have made Orlando International Airport (MCO) one of the busiest hubs in the United States. Featuring two main terminals, MCO is a center for major airlines offering domestic and international flights.

Flying can be a stressful process, especially if it’s your first time flying from MCO airport. With so many factors to consider, it can be overwhelming. This is why we recommend beginning your travels with a strong start by arriving at MCO airport early. Having time to spare allows for a chance to smoothly resolve any problems, prepare for queues, and navigate the airport process with peace of mind.

Preparing your Documents

Documents are a crucial part of traveling, so it's important to ensure you have all the essential items before you arrive at MCO Airport. If you don’t have the correct documents, you can be prohibited from taking your flight.

ID: The most common form of identification used by American citizens flying on domestic flights are state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards. A list of valid forms of ID when flying domestically is available on the TSA website. American citizens are still able to present their expired driver's license or state-issued ID if it expired on or after March 1st 2020. It will still be considered as an acceptable ID at the checkpoint and TSA will accept an expired driver's license or state-issued ID one year after its expiration.

Visa: If you are heading on an international flight from the USA, your destination may require you to possess a valid visa for entry. It's best to check the country's requirements beforehand. Rules may differ from American citizens to other nationalities.

Passport: You will not be able to check in to an international flight without a passport. Ensure your passport is at least six from the expiration date, as passports that are expired or close to expiring will not be accepted.

Passports are also a valid form of ID for domestic flights, although American citizens can fly with state-issued driver's licenses or ID cards.

Planning your Arrival Time for Domestic and International Flights

Domestic Flights

Domestic flights don't require as many security checks and the process is much shorter in comparison to international flights. Depending on the airline and the destination, some flights may allow you to skip security entirely and head straight for the gate directly from check-in. We advise you to arrive at MCO airport at least two hours before departure.

Checking-In Online

Checking in online is a simple process and avoids having to wait in check-in queues. Passengers can select their seats, provide the necessary information required by the airline, and sometimes select a meal. You will receive an electronic boarding pass. The process can be done via the airline's website or cell phon. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines all provide mobile apps for easy and convenient check-ins.

International Flights

We advise you to arrive at MCO airport at least three hours before departure for international flights. The process is longer than domestic flights as passengers are required to go through security after check-in. Airports also go through busy periods throughout the day, soit's important to have enough time if you are to get stuck in security longer than expected.

Understanding Customs and Immigration Wait Times

Travel can be unpredictable, with various factors influencing the running of operations. This affects the customs process and wait times at MCO Airport. Factors such as arrival times, passenger volume, and staffing levels influence the wait time, resulting in the duration to be typically from 20 minutes up to two hours.

Average Wait Time to Get Through Security

The average wait time varies depending on rush hours, staffing level, and any other issues. Travelers could whizz through in half an hour, whereas others may get stuck for up to 90 minutes. To avoid a longer process it's better to travel during quieter hours when there are fewer passengers.

Peak Hours and Off-Peak Hours

The peak hours at MCO Airport coincide with busy travel times. You'll find the majority of the rush to occur during early mornings (7am to 10am) and late afternoons (4pm to 7pm). This is due to the numerous domestic and international flights that operate during these hours. To avoid longer wait times and bustle at the airport, try to fly during the off-peak hours.

Navigating Security Checkpoints Efficiently

Preparation is key when looking to get through the security process. Start by arriving at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to have enough time. Read up on TSA regulations beforehand to be prepared for how items need to be presented at security. Electronics need to be taken out of your bag and placed separately to be scanned. Liquids, gels, and aerosols should be no more than 100ml each and should be placed in a clear accessible bag that will be placed separately from the rest of your belongings. Be prepared to remove items such as belts and jewelry if need be. Enrolling in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Programs can expedite security clearance.

TSA Guidelines and Procedures

Just like other major airports across the USA, MCO Airport operates on guidelines and regulations provided by TSA. These ensure the safety and security of passengers as well as allow for more organized and efficient travel. Some of the most important guidelines entail verification where a valid ID and boarding pass will need to be presented. All belongings will need to be separated and scanned according to TSA rules during the security process.

TSA Pre-Check: Benefits and How to Enroll

You can avoid the lengthy process of having to remove shoes, belts, and jewelry and organize items during security. TSA PreCheck is an excellent service to help you cut down the process and experience fewer requirements for liquids and electronics. To enroll, applicants must complete an online application and schedule an in-person appointment at an enrolment center. At the appointment, applicants undergo a background check and provide biometric information. Once approved, travelers receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). This allows them to access PeCheck Lanes at MCO and other participating airports.

The Best Parking Options for Getting There on Time

There are multiple parking lots to service each of the three terminals. The best parking option when looking for convenient access to the terminal is on-site parking lots. Parking Garage A and Parking Garage B are both located within walking distance to Terminals A & B and a 4-minute Terminal Link (APM) ride to Terminal C. Parking Garage C offers easy access to Terminal C allowing you to stroll to the entrance and Terminals A and B are accessed via a 4-minute Terminal (APM) ride. All three parking lots provide charging points for electric vehicles and the maximum stay is 45 days.

Comparing Parking Lots

MCO Airport offers a range of parking lots to suit different budgets and preferences. On-site parking is the most expensive yet the most efficient when looking for convenient access to and from the terminals. Valet parking offers a more luxurious experience – simply hand over the keys to a member of staff and they will park your car. These two options are convenient for those traveling for a few days, whereas passengers traveling for a week or more would benefit more from long-stay parking. The lots for long-stay are located slightly further from the terminals, but easy access is provided through complimentary airport shuttles that run 24 hours per day/7 days per week.

Parking prices fluctuate throughout the year depending on the season. To secure the best deals it's best to book at least three months in advance for affordable rates and ensure availability.