Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, welcoming millions of travelers each year. With its vast layout and multiple terminals, navigating MCO can be daunting — especially if it’s your first time flying through Orlando. If you’re traveling with Southwest Airlines, it’s important to know exactly where to go for check-in, security, boarding, and baggage claim. That’s where this guide to the Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal comes in.
This in-depth article will cover everything you need to know about flying Southwest at MCO, including which terminal it operates from, what amenities are available, how to get there, and helpful tips to make your journey smoother.
Why Fly Southwest Airlines from Orlando?
Southwest Airlines is one of the most popular carriers at MCO, thanks to its affordable fares, flexible policies, and extensive route network. Known for its free checked baggage allowance (two bags per passenger), no change fees, and customer-friendly service, Southwest is a favorite among families, business travelers, and vacationers alike.
Whether you’re flying to a major city, a beach destination, or heading home after a trip to Disney World, Southwest offers a reliable and economical option. And with its dedicated presence at MCO, the airline provides a streamlined experience from check-in to arrival.
Which Terminal Does Southwest Airlines Use at MCO?
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
MCO is divided into two main terminals: Terminal A and Terminal B, each serving a variety of domestic and international airlines. Knowing which terminal your airline uses is crucial for a stress-free experience.
At Terminal A, Southwest passengers can find all necessary services in one convenient location — including ticketing, baggage drop, security checkpoints, gates, and baggage claim. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or connecting, everything Southwest-related happens in Terminal A.
What to Expect in Terminal A
Terminal A at MCO is modern, spacious, and well-designed for travelers’ comfort. It features a wide range of amenities to make your time at the airport pleasant and productive. If you’re flying Southwest Airlines, here’s what you can expect in Terminal A:
Check-In Counters
Southwest’s check-in area is located on the Departures level of Terminal A. Here you can check your bags, print your boarding pass, or speak with an agent if you need assistance. Southwest also offers plenty of self-service kiosks for passengers who have already checked in online and just need to print baggage tags or boarding passes.
Security Screening
After checking in and dropping off your bags, you’ll proceed through the TSA security checkpoint. Like any major airport, MCO can experience long security lines, especially during peak travel times. Arrive at least two hours before your domestic departure to allow enough time to clear security without stress.
Departure Gates
Southwest Airlines flights at MCO typically depart from gates in Airside 1, which is accessible from Terminal A. Once through security, you’ll take an automated people mover (APM) — a short train ride — to reach the Airside concourse where your gate is located.
Dining and Shopping
Terminal A and the Airside 1 concourse offer plenty of options for food, drinks, and shopping. Grab a quick coffee, sit down for a meal, or pick up last-minute travel essentials. You’ll find a mix of fast-food outlets, sit-down restaurants, newsstands, souvenir shops, and convenience stores throughout the terminal and concourse.
Seating and Charging
While you wait for your flight, you can relax in one of the many seating areas near the gates. Power outlets and charging stations are available so you can keep your devices powered up before boarding.
Baggage Claim
If you’re arriving at MCO on a Southwest flight, head to the baggage claim area on the lower level of Terminal A. Monitors will display the carousel number for your flight’s luggage. Southwest staff are available nearby if you have questions or need assistance with lost or delayed baggage.
Getting to and from Terminal A
Orlando International Airport is conveniently located about 10 miles southeast of downtown Orlando and offers a variety of ground transportation options.
Parking
If you’re driving yourself to MCO, parking is easy. Terminal A is served by several parking garages and surface lots offering hourly, daily, and economy rates. Shuttle buses connect the economy lots to the terminals.
Ride-Sharing and Taxis
Uber, Lyft, and other ride-sharing services pick up and drop off passengers directly at Terminal A. Traditional taxis are also available outside the terminal.
Public Transportation
LYNX, Orlando’s public bus system, provides service to and from MCO, with stops at Terminal A. This is a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or those staying at nearby hotels.
Rental Cars
If you’re renting a car, MCO’s on-site Rental Car Center is connected to both terminals. Simply follow the signs after you exit the baggage claim area.
Why Choose Southwest Airlines at MCO?
With so many airlines operating at Orlando International Airport, what makes Southwest stand out? Here are a few reasons why passengers love flying Southwest at MCO :
Affordable Fares — Southwest is known for its competitive pricing and frequent sales.
Free Bags — Save money with two free checked bags per passenger.
No Change Fees — Plans change? Southwest allows you to modify your flight without penalty (you just pay any difference in fare).
Friendly Service — Southwest’s cheerful crews and helpful staff are a big hit with passengers.
Convenience — All Southwest operations are centralized in Terminal A, making the airport experience smooth and straightforward.
Whether you’re heading home, traveling for business, or starting a family vacation, Southwest’s presence at MCO offers convenience and value.
Conclusion
Flying Southwest Airlines Orlando Airport doesn’t have to be stressful. By knowing that Southwest operates solely out of Terminal A, you can plan your arrival, check-in, and boarding with confidence. Terminal A’s modern amenities, clear signage, and friendly staff help make your airport experience seamless.Whether you’re traveling solo, with colleagues, or on a family vacation, Southwest Airlines and MCO’s Terminal A combine to offer a convenient, affordable, and pleasant travel experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 . How to know which terminal for a Southwest Airlines flight?
To find your terminal for a Southwest Airlines flight, check your booking confirmation, Southwest’s website, or mobile app. You can also view flight details on the airport’s official website or arrival/departure boards. At Orlando International Airport, Southwest generally uses Terminal A, Airside 2 for most flights.
2 . What terminal is Southwest Airlines in MCO?
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively from Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO), specifically Airside 2, which includes gates 100–129.
At MCO:
Departures: Check-in is on Level 3, then proceed through security to Airside 2 for boarding.
Arrivals: Deplane into Airside 2 and collect baggage on Level 2.
3 . Can you walk between terminals at MCO ?
Yes, you can walk between terminals at MCO—but only within the North Terminal Complex (Terminals A and B). They are connected landside on Level 3 and take about 3–7 minutes on foot, with escalators and moving walkways easing the trip To reach Terminal C, you'll need to use the free shuttle bus or Automated People Mover (APM)—walking isn't possible after security
4. What airlines are terminals at MCO ?
Here’s a breakdown of airlines by terminal at Orlando International Airport (MCO):
Terminal A (Airside 1 & 2): Air Transat, Avelo, Frontier, Southwest, Spirit, Virgin Atlantic
Terminal B (Airside 3 & 4): Air Canada/Air Canada Rouge, Alaska, Allegiant, American, Bahamasair, BermudAir, Breeze, Delta, Flair, LATAM, Sun Country, United, Viva, Volaris, WestJet
Terminal C: Aer Lingus, Aeroméxico, Air France, Avianca, Azul, British Airways, Caribbean Airlines, Copa, Discover, Emirates, Gol, Iberia, Iberojet, Icelandair, JetBlue, Norse, Porter
5 . What door is Southwest Airlines at Orlando International Airport ?
Southwest Airlines at Orlando International Airport (MCO) has its curbside check‑in located on Level 3 of Terminal A, near Doors 12 and 13—right outside the main Southwest ticket counters. Travelers can drop off bags, print boarding passes, and head straight to security. If lines inside seem long, using these curbside doors can save time.
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