orlando international airport (mco) is a bustling hub of activity and a gateway to one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world: florida. with millions of travelers passing through its doors annually, the airport is known for its modern facilities and traveler-friendly design. southwest airlines, a major carrier at mco, operates primarily out of terminal a, commonly referred to as the southwest terminal mco. this terminal is designed to cater to the needs of both leisure and business travelers, offering a range of amenities, services, and conveniences. in this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about navigating the southwest terminal mco, ensuring your travel experience is as seamless and enjoyable as possible.
an overview of orlando international airport and the southwest terminal mco
orlando international airport is located about 18 miles southeast of downtown orlando, making it a convenient choice for visitors heading to central florida’s attractions. the airport is divided into two main terminals: terminal a and terminal b, each serving multiple airlines. southwest airlines operates exclusively out of terminal a, which is why it is often referred to as the southwest terminal mco.
the southwest terminal mco is well-organized, with clear signage and a layout that makes navigation straightforward. whether you’re arriving for a flight or landing at mco, the southwest terminal mco provides everything you need to make your journey pleasant.
arriving at the southwest terminal mco
parking and drop-off options
if you’re driving to the airport, several parking options are available near terminal a. the parking garages offer short-term and long-term parking, and valet parking services are also an option for added convenience. economy parking lots are available for budget-conscious travelers, with free shuttle services connecting these lots to the southwest terminal mco.
rideshare services like uber and lyft have designated pickup and drop-off zones near terminal a, making it easy for passengers to arrive without the hassle of parking. shuttle services from nearby hotels and resorts also drop passengers off at terminal a, making the southwest terminal mco accessible for a variety of transportation options.
check-in counters and self-service kiosks
southwest airlines’ check-in counters are located on the first level of terminal a. upon arrival, you’ll find helpful signage guiding you to the southwest check-in area. for passengers with luggage to check, staffed counters are available, while self-service kiosks offer a quick and efficient way to print boarding passes and luggage tags.
travelers with carry-on luggage and mobile boarding passes can skip the check-in counters entirely and head straight to security. southwest’s user-friendly mobile app allows passengers to check in online and access their boarding passes directly from their smartphones.
security checkpoints at the southwest terminal mco
after checking in, you’ll proceed to the security checkpoint. the tsa checkpoint at terminal a is equipped to handle large volumes of passengers efficiently, but wait times can vary depending on the time of day and season. for this reason, it’s recommended to arrive at least two hours before your domestic flight and three hours before an international departure.
for expedited screening, travelers enrolled in tsa precheck or clear can use dedicated lanes. tsa precheck allows you to keep your shoes, light jackets, and belts on, as well as leave laptops and liquids in your bags, significantly reducing screening time. clear provides a biometric screening option, allowing you to bypass traditional document checks.
exploring amenities at the southwest terminal mco
once you’ve cleared security, you’ll enter the main concourse of the southwest terminal mco. this area is packed with amenities designed to make your wait for your flight as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
dining options
the southwest terminal mco offers an array of dining options to suit every palate. whether you’re in the mood for a quick snack, a hearty meal, or a caffeine fix, you’ll find plenty of choices:
- quick bites: grab-and-go options include sandwiches, salads, and wraps from outlets like grab’n go market and fast-food chains like chick-fil-a.
- sit-down dining: for a more leisurely meal, consider visiting restaurants such as outback steakhouse or mco’s signature eatery featuring local florida flavors.
- cafes and coffee shops: recharge with a cup of coffee or tea from popular spots like starbucks or dunkin’.
many dining establishments also cater to dietary restrictions, offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
shopping opportunities
shopping enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of retail stores in terminal a. from travel essentials to luxury goods, the southwest terminal mco offers something for everyone:
- souvenirs: pick up keepsakes and gifts to remember your trip, including items featuring iconic florida landmarks.
- duty-free shopping: for international travelers, duty-free stores offer a range of products, including cosmetics, liquor, and electronics, at tax-free prices.
- travel essentials: forgot something at home? stores like hudson news carry everything from snacks to toiletries and electronics.
relaxation areas
whether you’re looking to unwind or catch up on work, the southwest terminal mco offers several seating areas with charging stations for your devices. for a quieter experience, seek out designated relaxation zones designed to help you de-stress before your flight.
family-friendly amenities
traveling with children? the southwest terminal mco features play areas for kids to burn off some energy while you wait. family restrooms equipped with changing tables make it easier to travel with little ones.
gates and boarding procedures at the southwest terminal mco
southwest airlines operates out of gates 100-129 within terminal a. these gates are conveniently located and easy to navigate thanks to clear signage and flight information displays.
southwest’s unique boarding process is well-known among frequent flyers. instead of assigned seats, passengers board based on group numbers and positions, which are assigned during check-in. when your boarding group is called, line up in numerical order at the designated area near the gate. this efficient system helps streamline the boarding process and minimizes delays.
arriving at the southwest terminal mco
if orlando is your destination, your journey through the southwest terminal mco doesn’t end at the gate. after deplaning, follow the signs to the baggage claim area, located on the first level of terminal a. southwest’s baggage handling is known for its efficiency, so you won’t have to wait long for your luggage.
once you’ve collected your bags, you’ll find easy access to ground transportation options, including rental car counters, shuttles, and rideshare pickup zones.
transportation options at the southwest terminal mco
the southwest terminal mco is well-connected to various transportation services, making it easy to continue your journey:
- rental cars: major rental car companies have counters located near the baggage claim area, with vehicles conveniently parked in adjacent garages.
- rideshare services: designated pickup zones for uber and lyft are located just outside terminal a.
- shuttle services: many hotels and resorts in the orlando area offer complimentary shuttle services to and from mco.
- public transportation: lynx buses provide affordable and convenient service to various parts of the orlando area.
- taxi services: traditional taxis are readily available outside the southwest terminal mco.
travel tips for navigating the southwest terminal mco
- arrive early: give yourself plenty of time to check in, pass through security, and explore the southwest terminal mco’s amenities. aim for at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours for international flights.
- pack smart: familiarize yourself with southwest’s baggage policies to avoid surprises at check-in. remember, southwest offers two free checked bags per passenger.
- stay informed: download the mco app for real-time updates on flight statuses, gate changes, and security wait times.
- keep essentials handy: ensure your id, boarding pass, and other travel documents are easily accessible.
- take advantage of amenities: from dining and shopping to relaxation zones, the southwest terminal mco is designed to make your wait enjoyable.
final thoughts
the southwest terminal mco is more than just a gateway to your next destination; it’s a part of your travel experience. with its wide range of amenities, efficient design, and friendly staff, the southwest terminal mco ensures a seamless journey for every passenger. whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, a little preparation and this guide in hand will make your time at orlando international airport as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.
0 Comments