Orlando Airport Security: Cameras And Surveillance

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is located in central Orlando and is one of the largest and busiest airports in Florida, serving around 40 million passengers annually. In this answer, we will explore whether or not the airport is equipped with security cameras.

Orlando International Airport security checkpoints

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest and busiest airports in Florida, serving around 40 million passengers annually. The airport has two security checkpoints—one on the west side serving gates 1–59, and the other on the east serving gates 70–129.

MCO has three terminals: Terminal A, B, and C. Knowing your terminal and gate number beforehand is essential, as you will need to take a Gate Link to your gate after clearing security. If you happen to take the wrong Gate Link, you can simply stay on board and return to the security area to board the correct one.

To expedite your security screening process, MCO offers a complimentary service called "Reservation Lane powered by CLEAR." This service allows you to reserve a time slot for security screening, reducing your wait time. It is available at both checkpoints from 5 a.m. to 11 a.m. Additionally, passengers with TSA PreCheck can utilise CLEAR to further expedite the security process.

To enhance your experience at MCO, it is recommended to download the MCO app before your travel. The app provides valuable information such as flight updates, parking availability, and airport maps. You can also use the app to check estimated security wait times to better plan your arrival at the airport.

For domestic travel, it is generally recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure. However, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority advises arriving three hours in advance for added convenience.

CLEAR reservation system

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest and busiest airports in Florida, serving around 40 million passengers annually. The airport offers a reservation system called CLEAR, which allows passengers to save time by reserving a time slot for security screening.

CLEAR is a complimentary travel management system that has been piloted at MCO. It is a frictionless experience that allows passengers to move faster through dedicated lanes at airport security. Passengers can book a reservation by entering their flight details, the number of travellers in their group, and their preferred time for passing through security. This reservation is held for a 20-minute window. CLEAR is also available to CLEAR Plus Members, who can enjoy an on-demand, fast-track experience without the need for reservations.

The CLEAR reservation system at MCO has its own dedicated lane, allowing for better management of line lengths and wait times. Reservations can be made up to 14 days in advance or upon arrival at the airport. The system is available for all airlines and departing passengers from 5 a.m. to 5 p.m.

To use CLEAR, passengers scan their boarding pass and confirm their identity using fingerprints or iris recognition. This process can significantly reduce wait times, with some passengers reporting that CLEAR cuts their security wait time by half or more.

The booking window for CLEAR may vary by location, and it is recommended to check the website for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, while CLEAR is a free service, it is only available at select airports, and all members of the travelling party must arrive together at the reserved time.

TSA PreCheck

Those with TSA PreCheck can enjoy a faster route through the full airport security and screening process. The TSA recommends that travellers arrive at Orlando International Airport at least two hours before their departure time, but the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority suggests three hours before the scheduled departure time. TSA PreCheck can help speed up this process.

To enrol in TSA PreCheck, applicants can select an enrolment provider based on cost, location, and additional benefits. There are 611 enrolment centres, with some open seven days a week and offering extended hours. The application can be started online, and then completed in person. The cost for enrolment varies by provider.

Children under 17 can join an adult with TSA PreCheck when the indicator appears on the child's boarding pass. To use PreCheck, travellers will need their Known Traveller Number (KTN).

MCO app

The MCO mobile app is the official app for Orlando International Airport (OIA), providing all the information you need when travelling through the airport. The app includes a wide variety of features to make your journey through the airport stress-free.

You can use the app to find flight status and notifications, as well as location-based messages to guide you through your journey. The app also provides the locations of airline counters and gates, rental cars and other transportation, and ground transportation and parking options. If you're looking for places to eat or shop, the app provides dining and shopping information and locations.

Other features include an airport terminal layout and map, a customized terminal and airside directions feature, airport amenities, and indoor turn-by-turn navigation and location awareness. The app also provides TSA wait times, which can help you plan your time at the airport.

The MCO app is available on the App Store and Google Play.

Terminal and gate knowledge

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest and busiest airports in Florida, serving around 40 million passengers annually. The airport has three terminals (A, B, and C) and two security checkpoints—one on the west side serving gates 1–59, and one on the east side serving gates 70–129.

It is important to know which terminal and gate you are departing from, as once you have cleared security, you will need to take a Gate Link to your gate. If you take the wrong Gate Link, you can simply stay on board and return to the security area to board the correct one.

MCO recommends arriving at the airport three hours before your scheduled departure time. To save time at security, you can use the CLEAR pod, which requires you to scan your boarding pass and confirm your identity with your fingerprints or irises before proceeding to the physical screening. Additionally, you can reserve a time slot for security checks through the Reservation Lane or the "Reserve powered by CLEAR" program, allowing you to go through an exclusive and shorter lane.

To further streamline your experience, download the MCO app to access helpful information such as flight updates, parking availability, and airport maps. The app also provides estimated security wait times, enabling you to plan your arrival at the airport accordingly, especially during peak travel seasons.

Frequently asked questions