Orlando Airport Taxi Services: Availability And Convenience

Orlando Airport, also known as MCO, is a bustling hub that services around 95,000 passengers daily. With such a high volume of travellers, getting a taxi at the airport can be a challenge. There are only two taxi queues in the entire airport, often resulting in long lines of tired passengers waiting to catch a cab. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about taking a taxi from Orlando Airport, from finding a reputable company to understanding the fares and alternatives.

Taxi ranks and queues

Orlando Airport is a bustling hub, serving around 60 million passengers a year. With such a high volume of travellers, it is no surprise that there are long queues for taxis during peak times. The airport has just two taxi queues, which can result in lengthy waits for a cab. To avoid this, travellers can pre-book a taxi or private car service.

The taxi ranks at Orlando Airport are located on Level 1 of Terminal A and Terminal B. In Terminal A, the taxi rank is situated between spaces A22-A25, and in Terminal B, it can be found between spaces B30-B34. For those arriving at Terminal C, the taxi rank is on Level 6, outside the Arrivals Hall. It is important to note that only specific taxi companies are permitted to operate within the airport grounds, and travellers are advised to be cautious of unauthorised drivers offering rides.

Orlando Airport recommends several reputable taxi companies, including Ace Metro/Luxury Cab and Town & Country Transport. These companies typically have their vehicles waiting at the taxi ranks for incoming passengers. It is generally advised to opt for these companies over unauthorised drivers, as they may not have adequate passenger insurance. Additionally, travellers can utilise ride-sharing services such as Lyft, Wingz, and Uber, which are also available at the airport.

For those seeking a seamless and personalised experience, pre-booking a taxi or private car service is an attractive option. This guarantees timely pickups, competitive fares, and 24/7 customer support. By pre-booking, travellers can also ensure they secure a vehicle that accommodates their group size, especially for larger parties that may not fit into a standard taxi.

Taxi companies and fares

Orlando International Airport is a bustling hub, with around 35 million passengers passing through its doors each year. With so many travellers, it's no surprise that the taxi queues can be long. There are only two taxi ranks at the airport, located outside Level 2 of Side A and Side B. It's worth noting that only specific taxi companies are permitted to operate from the airport.

The following taxi companies are allowed to pick up passengers at Orlando International Airport:

• Ace Metro/Luxury Cab
• Town & Country Transportation
• Diamond Cab Company
• Quick Cab
• Mears Taxi Yellow/City Cab

Mears Taxi Yellow/City Cab has been operating in Orlando since 1939 and offers individual and shared rides. They provide taxi sedans and vans, with the latter accommodating up to seven passengers. Mears also prioritises safety, with extensive background checks on their drivers and in-car cameras.

Orlando's taxi fares are not fixed and are determined by the taximeter or the driver based on your destination. The base rate can vary, but it's generally around $2 to $4 for the initial pick-up and about $2.50 per mile. For example, a ride from the airport to downtown Orlando, approximately 34 kilometres away, will cost around $35 for a standard 4-seater taxi. Heading to Disney World, about 40 kilometres from the airport, will cost approximately $60. For a larger group, you may need to book a minivan, which will be more expensive.

It's important to note that flat-rate fares are illegal in Orlando, so be cautious of any driver offering a fixed rate. Always ensure you're taking a licensed taxi with a valid ID and taxi number.

Safety and insurance

Orlando Airport, also known as MCO, has several taxi companies operating from the airport. These include Ace Metro/Luxury Cab, Town & Country Transport, Diamond Cab Company, Quick Cab, and Mears Taxi Yellow/City Cab.

It is important to choose a reputable taxi company for your transportation. While there are usually taxis waiting at the ranks at Orlando Airport, it is recommended to book a taxi in advance from a good company. If you do decide to use one of the taxis waiting, check that the name and phone number of the company are clearly visible on the side of the taxi, that their rates are available, and that the driver has their ID and the company's insurance information visible.

Be aware of 'gypsy' cab drivers who may approach you in the airport baggage hall. This practice is illegal at the airport, and these drivers often do not have full passenger insurance. Legitimate taxi companies do not wander around looking for fares, and their taxis will be waiting at the ranks.

Mears Taxi is one company that emphasizes safety, with their drivers undergoing extensive background checks, and vehicles equipped with in-car cameras and GPS locators.

When taking a taxi from Orlando Airport, it is recommended to check for a valid ID and taxi number to ensure you are taking a licensed vehicle. You can also ask for a receipt at the end of your journey in case you need to make a complaint or have any issues.

Pre-Booking a Taxi

Pre-booking your taxi can help guarantee on-time pickups, avoid wait times during peak travel times, and provide peace of mind by knowing the cost of your journey in advance. Some companies, such as Welcome Pickups, offer pre-booking with guaranteed on-time pickups, 24-hour customer service, and all-inclusive pricing.

Payment and Tipping

Some Orlando Airport taxi drivers accept card payments, but not all. If you need to pay by card, be sure to ask your driver if they have a working POS system before starting your journey.

Tipping your taxi driver in Orlando is customary. It is common to add around 10-15% to your final fare as a tip.

Pre-booking a taxi

Orlando Airport is a bustling hub, serving around 60 million passengers a year. With only two taxi ranks, queues for cabs can be long, so pre-booking your taxi is a good option to avoid delays. Pre-booking guarantees an on-time pickup, and you won't have to wait for other passengers or their luggage. It also means you can choose the best taxi service for your needs.

If you're travelling in a larger group, you may need to book a minivan or a sprinter van, which can fit up to 8 or 14 people, respectively. These larger vehicles can be pre-booked to ensure they are available when you land. Booking in advance also means you can compare prices and choose a competitive, all-inclusive rate, so you know exactly how much your journey will cost.

Some taxi companies offer additional benefits, such as guaranteed on-time pickups even if your flight is delayed, 24-hour customer service, and hand-picked local drivers. You can also check reviews for companies to ensure you are getting a reliable, reputable service. It is also important to check that your driver has a valid ID and that their vehicle is licensed.

Pre-booking your taxi from Orlando Airport will ensure a stress-free arrival, with no waiting around, and a guaranteed, competitive rate.

Alternative transport options

If you're looking for alternative ways to get from Orlando Airport to your destination, there are several transfer companies available within the airport premises.

Shuttle Vans

Mears Transportation Group offers shuttle vans from Orlando Airport. These can be found on the Ground Transportation Level on both sides of the terminal. Shuttle vans are a good option for solo travellers or pairs, as they charge a per-person rate. A single trip fare per person in a shuttle van is about $16 to Downtown Orlando and $19 to Walt Disney World.

Limousines

Orlando Limo provides chauffeured limousine services at Orlando Airport, costing between $50 and $85 per hour.

Private town car/sedan

A private town car or sedan will transport only you and your party. The driver will meet you in the airport baggage claim area.

Shared-ride shuttle

A shared-ride shuttle is another option, although you will have to wait for all passengers to arrive and be dropped off before you.

Ride-share apps

Lyft, Wingz and Uber are available in Orlando Airport.

Frequently asked questions