Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in Florida and a major gateway for travelers visiting the Sunshine State, especially those heading to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other tourist destinations. Among the many carriers operating out of MCO, Southwest Airlines holds a significant presence. Known for its customer-friendly policies, affordable fares, and reliable service, Southwest Airlines is a popular choice for both domestic and international travelers flying into or out of Orlando.
In this detailed guide, we explore everything you need to know about the Southwest terminal at MCO, including terminal information, check-in procedures, baggage policies, security, lounges, parking, ground transportation, and frequently asked questions.
Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)
MCO is a major international airport located just six miles southeast of downtown Orlando. It serves more than 50 million passengers annually and is one of the top 10 busiest airports in the U.S. The airport has four main terminals: Terminals A, B, C, and the South Terminal Complex. The design is user-friendly, with clear signage, multiple ground transportation options, and amenities that cater to families, business travelers, and international guests alike.
Which Terminal is Southwest Airlines at MCO?
Southwest Airlines operates out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport. This terminal serves several domestic carriers and is equipped with modern facilities to handle large volumes of passengers efficiently.
Located on the north side of the airport, Terminal A is split into multiple Airside gates. Southwest flights typically depart and arrive at Gates 100-129, which are easily accessible via the airport's automated people mover (APM) system from the main terminal building.
In the middle of the terminal section, passengers can find updated details about check-in, ticketing, baggage claim, and boarding for Southwest flights. For a detailed and accurate terminal guide, refer to this comprehensive resource on the southwest terminal mco.
Check-In and Baggage
Check-In Counters
Southwest Airlines’ check-in counters are located on Level 3 of Terminal A. The counters are clearly marked and typically open 2 hours before the first departure of the day. Whether you're checking in a bag or printing your boarding pass, the process is straightforward and quick.
You can also check in through the Southwest mobile app or website 24 hours in advance and head straight to the bag drop counter if you have checked luggage.
Self-Service Kiosks
For added convenience, Southwest provides self-service kiosks where passengers can:
- Print boarding passes
- Check baggage
- Change seats
- View flight status
These kiosks are especially useful during peak travel hours when lines at the counters tend to get long.
Baggage Policy
Southwest’s baggage policy is among the most generous in the industry:
- First two checked bags are free (up to 50 lbs each).
- Carry-on and personal item are allowed free of charge.
- Oversize and overweight bags incur additional fees.
Make sure to tag your bags properly and arrive at least 90 minutes before departure for domestic flights to ensure a smooth experience.
Security Check and TSA
Security at MCO can be busy, especially during weekends and holiday seasons. Southwest passengers will use the TSA checkpoints located just past the check-in counters in Terminal A.
Here are a few tips for a smoother security experience:
- Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight.
- Enroll in TSA PreCheck if you travel frequently.
- Remove laptops and liquids before the scanner unless enrolled in PreCheck.
- Wear slip-on shoes to move quickly through the checkpoint.
Boarding and Gates
Southwest Airlines uses an open seating policy, which means passengers are not assigned specific seats. Instead, boarding is based on groups A, B, and C, and positions within each group.
To ensure a better seat:
- Check-in exactly 24 hours before departure.
- Consider purchasing EarlyBird Check-In to secure Group A boarding.
Gate areas are equipped with charging stations, restrooms, and nearby food options. Make sure to listen for announcements in case of any last-minute gate changes.
Dining and Shopping Options at Terminal A
While waiting for your Southwest flight, you'll find a wide range of dining and shopping options within Terminal A:
Dining
- Starbucks – For your caffeine fix and snacks.
- Cask & Larder – A Southern-style pub offering sit-down meals and local brews.
- Chick-fil-A – A favorite for travelers wanting quick comfort food.
- Qdoba Mexican Eats – Fast-casual Mexican food with customizable options.
Shopping
- Hudson News – Magazines, snacks, and travel essentials.
- Orlando Market – Local souvenirs, Disney merchandise, and Florida-themed items.
- Duty-Free Shops – Available for international travelers.
Lounges and Relaxation Spaces
Southwest Airlines does not operate its own lounge at MCO. However, you can access other relaxation areas:
- The Club MCO (available in Terminal A and Terminal B): Available for a fee or via Priority Pass, this lounge offers snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.
- Family Play Areas: Located near select gates, these areas are ideal for families with young children to unwind before their flight.
Parking at MCO for Southwest Passengers
MCO offers a wide array of parking facilities for travelers:
Parking Options:
- Terminal Parking Garages (A/B) – Closest to Terminal A, with direct access.
- Economy Parking Lot – Budget-friendly, connected by shuttle.
- Valet Parking – Available for quick drop-offs and pickups.
Parking Fees (subject to change):
- Garage Parking: $19/day
- Economy Lot: $10/day
- Valet: $25/day
Ground Transportation and Rental Cars
Orlando International Airport is well-connected to surrounding areas through several ground transportation options:
Taxis & Ride Shares
- Uber, Lyft, and traditional taxis operate from the Ground Transportation Level.
- A trip to downtown Orlando usually costs around $35-$45.
Shuttles
- Many area hotels and resorts offer complimentary shuttle services.
- You can also use shared-ride shuttles for budget-friendly group travel.
Rental Cars
- MCO features a large on-site rental car center located adjacent to the terminal. Major agencies like Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, and Budget are available.
Accessibility and Special Assistance
Southwest and MCO are committed to providing a seamless experience for passengers with special needs:
- Wheelchair Assistance: Request during booking or at the check-in desk.
- Visual and Hearing Impaired Services: TTY phones and visual display boards are available.
- Service Animals: Relief areas are available both pre- and post-security.
Flight Destinations and Route Map
Southwest Airlines offers numerous non-stop routes from Orlando to major cities across the U.S., including:
- Atlanta
- Chicago Midway
- Baltimore
- Dallas Love Field
- Denver
- Houston Hobby
- Las Vegas
- Nashville
- New York (LaGuardia)
- Phoenix
- Washington, D.C. (DCA)
These direct flights make Orlando a convenient hub for travelers across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What terminal does Southwest use at MCO?
A: Southwest Airlines uses Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO), specifically operating out of Gates 100-129.
Q2: How early should I arrive at MCO for a Southwest flight?
A: It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic departures and 3 hours for international flights.
Q3: Does Southwest Airlines have a lounge at MCO?
A: No, Southwest does not have a dedicated lounge. However, passengers can access The Club MCO for a fee.
Q4: Are there dining options available near Southwest gates?
A: Yes. Options like Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and Cask & Larder are available near Gates 100-129 in Terminal A.
Q5: Where do I pick up arriving Southwest passengers?
A: Use the Arrivals Level (Level 2) of Terminal A and check the airport monitors for the exact baggage claim area.
Q6: Is EarlyBird Check-In worth it?
A: If securing a better boarding position is important to you, especially if you're traveling with family or need overhead bin space, EarlyBird Check-In is worth the cost.
Q7: Are baggage carts available at the terminal?
A: Yes, baggage carts are available throughout the terminal and garage areas for a small fee.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a frequent flier or a first-time traveler, flying Southwest Airlines from Orlando International Airport is a smooth and convenient experience. With ample amenities, a generous baggage policy, and reliable service, Southwest continues to be a top choice for travelers departing from or arriving at MCO.
Make sure to check for real-time updates on flights, baggage claim, and gate changes. If you’re planning your next trip via Orlando, this guide ensures that your time at the southwest terminal mco is as stress-free as possible.
Comments