Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary international airport in Orlando, Florida, and one of the busiest airports in the United States. It serves millions of tourists and business travelers each year, especially those heading to Orlando’s world-renowned theme parks. Not only is Orlando International Airport a hub for several major airlines around the world, but it is also a key air gateway to Florida. We will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Orlando International Airport, including flight details, transportation options, baggage information, etc., to help make your travel easier and more convenient.
1. Overview of Orlando International Airport
Located in the southeastern part of Orlando, about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from downtown and approximately 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Walt Disney World, Orlando International Airport is easily accessible. As Florida’s second-largest airport, it ranks as the 10th busiest airport in the U.S. in terms of passenger traffic, consistently handling millions of passengers each year. Covering over 12,000 acres, the airport is home to two main terminals (A and B) and offers comprehensive services for travelers.
Orlando International Airport currently has three main terminal areas:
- Terminal A: Mainly serves domestic flights, including airlines like American Airlines and Delta Airlines.
- Terminal B: Primarily handles international flights, including Emirates, United Airlines, and others.
- Terminal C: A newer terminal serving flights from airlines such as JetBlue and United Airlines.
2. Detailed Flight Information at Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport offers a wide range of flight options for travelers, with frequent domestic and international flights. Whether traveling for business or leisure, you’ll find a variety of flights to suit your needs.
1. Domestic Flights
Orlando International Airport’s domestic flight network covers major U.S. cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Miami, Atlanta, Boston, and more. These flights are frequent, with nearly daily departures between Orlando and many other cities. Several major U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, operate at this airport, providing travelers with a rich selection of flight schedules for fast and convenient connections.
Popular Domestic Flights:
- Miami to Orlando: As two of Florida’s most important cities, flights between Orlando and Miami are frequent, with major airlines such as American Airlines and Delta offering multiple daily flights.
- New York to Orlando: Flights between New York and Orlando are abundant, with a wide variety of departure times for travelers.
- Los Angeles to Orlando: A popular cross-country route connecting the West Coast to the East Coast, with many flights available from airlines like American Airlines and Delta.
2. International Flights
As an important international air hub in Florida, Orlando International Airport also hosts flights from numerous countries and regions around the world. The airport sees significant traffic from Europe, Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean. There are direct flights to over 50 international destinations, including flights from the UK, Canada, Germany, Argentina, Colombia, and more.
Popular International Flights:
- London to Orlando: London to Orlando is a popular route, especially during the summer when many British tourists visit. Airlines like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer regular flights.
- Toronto to Orlando: The route between Toronto and Orlando is a major link between North America and Europe, with airlines like Air Canada and WestJet providing direct flights.
- Frankfurt to Orlando: Frankfurt to Orlando is a well-connected route, with airlines such as Lufthansa offering direct flights.
3. Transportation Guide at Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport is highly accessible with various transportation options to meet the needs of travelers, including public transit, taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rentals.
1. Car Rental Services
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Orlando and its surrounding areas, especially if you prefer to drive yourself. The airport has multiple major car rental agencies, including Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, and Alamo, located at the airport’s Rental Car Center. Travelers can easily find their rental companies and pick up their cars quickly.
Car Rental Tips:
- Book in Advance: Orlando is a popular tourist destination, so it’s recommended to book your car ahead of time through rental company websites or third-party platforms.
- Driver’s License Requirement: Renters must present a valid driver’s license, and international tourists may need to provide an international driver’s permit.
- Parking Fees: While many attractions offer free parking, expect to pay parking fees at lots near the airport and within the city.
2. Taxis and Ride-sharing Services
If you don’t plan to rent a car, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are convenient options. Orlando International Airport has designated taxi pick-up areas outside the terminals, making it easy to catch a taxi to your destination.
Ride-sharing services are also widely used, and travelers can request Uber or Lyft rides using their mobile apps. Although ride-sharing is generally convenient, prices may increase during peak traffic hours.
Taxi and Ride-sharing Tips:
- Taxi Fare: Taxis at the airport usually charge a base fare plus additional fees based on the distance traveled. The fare depends on how far you need to go.
- Ride-sharing Pick-up: It’s advisable to pick up ride-sharing services from the designated pick-up areas at the airport to avoid getting into an unlicensed taxi.
3. Public Transportation
Orlando’s public transportation system is mainly operated by Lynx buses and I-Ride Trolley. Lynx buses serve most of Orlando’s attractions and commercial areas, making it an ideal option for budget-conscious travelers. The I-Ride Trolley specifically serves the International Drive area, which includes key attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
4. Baggage Information at Orlando International Airport
When traveling through Orlando International Airport, it’s important to understand the baggage policies and procedures to ensure a smooth trip. The airport offers various services for baggage handling, including check-in, baggage claim, and lost and found.
1. Baggage Check-in and Claim
Baggage check-in is an important step for passengers before boarding their flight. Travelers need to be aware of the baggage policies of their airline before departure, as different airlines have varying baggage restrictions. Most airlines allow passengers to check in one standard piece of luggage, usually with a weight limit of 23 kg (50 lbs), but some airlines may have different baggage limits for economy and business class passengers. Specific requirements can be found on the airline’s official website or by consulting with airport staff.
In addition, passengers are generally allowed to carry one piece of hand luggage (such as a backpack or small suitcase). Most airlines also have clear regulations regarding the size and weight of hand luggage, usually with a weight limit of 7-10 kg (15-22 lbs). The size may also vary by airline. Therefore, it is recommended to check and confirm your baggage compliance with the airline’s regulations before departure to avoid unnecessary issues at the boarding gate.
The baggage claim area at Orlando International Airport is usually located in the arrival section of each terminal. Passengers can wait by the baggage carousel corresponding to their flight information. The baggage carousel will display the flight number, allowing passengers to locate the correct carousel. If your luggage does not appear on the carousel, you can report it to airport staff and provide your flight information. The staff will assist you in tracking down your missing baggage.
2. Lost and Found
Passengers at Orlando International Airport may occasionally misplace their belongings. Fortunately, the airport has a dedicated Lost and Found office to handle lost items. You can check the status of your lost belongings on the airport’s official website or directly contact the Lost and Found department by phone. Whether it’s luggage, documents, electronic devices, or other personal items, the Lost and Found office typically keeps items safe and makes efforts to help passengers recover them.
If you realize that you’ve lost an item at the airport, you should report it as soon as possible to the Lost and Found office. The staff will document the lost item and related information and begin the search process. Additionally, travelers can submit a request via email or phone to the Lost and Found office to track the progress of their lost items. It is worth mentioning that Orlando International Airport’s Lost and Found office has special procedures for high-value items (such as passports and credit cards) to ensure their security.
Understanding the baggage handling process and the Lost and Found procedures can make your journey more seamless. If you happen to lose something, reporting it promptly and following up on the recovery process is the best way to ensure the item is returned.
As one of the busiest airports in the U.S., Orlando International Airport provides a wide range of flight options and convenient transportation services for both domestic and international travelers. By understanding flight schedules, transportation options, and baggage policies, you can better plan your trip and ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. Whether you’re traveling for leisure, business, or other reasons, Orlando International Airport offers top-notch services and support to help you start your exciting journey.
