Orlando Airport Smoking Areas: Where To Light Up

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the tenth busiest airport in the United States, serving over 50 million passengers annually. While airports have increasingly implemented 100% smoke-free policies, Orlando International Airport has designated smoking areas for travellers who smoke. In this article, we will explore the locations of these smoking areas, relevant policies, and alternative solutions for smokers.

Orlando Airport's smoking areas

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the busiest airport in Florida, serving over 50 million passengers annually. While the airport used to have a smoking area on the third floor, this now appears to be closed. However, there are designated outdoor smoking areas across the street from the terminal building, with signs and ashtrays. These areas are in compliance with the Florida Clean Indoor Air Act (FCIAA), which prohibits smoking within 20 feet of any entrance or exit of a public building.

As a result of the FCIAA, smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the Terminal Complex, including the Airsides. This is in line with most airports, which are now non-smoking facilities. However, some airports do have designated smoking areas or lounges after security checkpoints, such as Las Vegas Airport and Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG).

If you are looking for alternatives to the designated smoking areas, consider using nicotine replacement products, such as patches, gums, or lozenges. These products can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and are safer than cigarettes as they do not produce secondhand smoke.

For those who choose to smoke in the designated areas, remember to dispose of cigarette butts responsibly and be mindful of other travellers who may be sensitive to smoke.

Florida's smoking laws

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the busiest airport in Florida, serving over 50 million passengers annually. The airport enforces specific guidelines regarding smoking, which are governed by the Florida Clean Indoor Air Act (FCIAA). This Act prohibits smoking within 20 feet of any entrance or exit of a public building and aims to protect non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke.

The FCAA does not regulate secondhand smoke or vapour from marijuana, and complaints regarding exposure to marijuana smoke should be directed to the Office of Medical Marijuana Use. The Act also does not pertain to mould exposure or poor indoor air quality. The FCAA only regulates tobacco/nicotine smoke and vapour.

In addition, Florida law prohibits anyone under 18 from smoking tobacco within 1,000 feet of a public or private elementary, middle, or secondary school between 6 am and midnight. This law does not apply to anyone in a moving vehicle or within a private residence.

The state of Florida generally prohibits smoking in enclosed indoor workplaces, with certain exemptions, including private residences that are not used for childcare, adult care, or healthcare. Other exemptions include designated smoking guest rooms at public lodging establishments and standalone bars.

Alternatives to smoking

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the busiest airport in Florida and the 10th busiest airport in the United States, serving over 50 million passengers annually. As per Florida law, smoking is prohibited within 20 feet of any entrance or exit of a public building. The airport has designated smoking areas, which are located outdoors and away from entrances and exits.

If you are looking for alternatives to smoking, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, you can explore nicotine replacement products such as patches, gums, or lozenges. These products can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and they are safer than cigarettes as they do not produce secondhand smoke. Additionally, the American Cancer Society notes that nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) can almost double a person's chances of stopping smoking.

However, it is important to follow the instructions for these products carefully, as nicotine is an addictive substance, and misuse can lead to nicotine overdose in rare cases. While e-cigarettes are another alternative, the American Dental Association (ADA) expresses concern about their safety compared to cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.

If you want to avoid nicotine altogether, there are behavioural alternatives that can help distract you from smoking. These include physical activities such as jumping jacks, running, dancing, gardening, or indoor or outdoor cycling. Alternatively, you can try oral substitutes like drinking water, eating candy or frozen grapes, or brushing your teeth. Keeping your hands busy with activities like gardening or waxing your vehicle can also help.

Educating yourself about the benefits of quitting smoking can be a powerful motivator. Additionally, speaking with a doctor can provide guidance on different methods, including medication, to support your journey.

Airports with smoking areas

While some airports have implemented a 100% smoke-free policy, many airports have designated smoking areas to accommodate travellers who smoke. These designated areas are typically located outdoors, beyond a certain distance from entrances and exits, as mandated by state laws. Airports with indoor smoking areas are becoming less common due to health concerns and the discomfort of other travellers.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport, the tenth busiest airport in the United States, has designated smoking areas. These areas are located outside, across the street from the terminals, and on Level 2 after passing through security, where there is a designated Smoking Deck. As per Florida law, smokers must stay at least 20 feet away from any entrance or exit of the terminal building.

Other Airports with Smoking Areas

• Las Vegas Airport
• Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
• Indianapolis Airport (outdoor smoking only)
• Newark Airport (outdoor smoking only)
• Kennedy Airport (smoke-free indoors)

Airports with 100% Smoke-Free Policies

• Chicago O'Hare Airport
• Salt Lake City Airport
• Denver Airport
• John F. Kennedy Airport

Airports without smoking areas

Smoking in airports has become an increasingly contentious issue due to growing concerns about public health and the well-being of travellers and staff. Airports are now taking steps to enforce stricter no-smoking policies, with many repurposing old smoking areas into seating, retail, or charging stations.

Orlando International Airport (MCO), for example, has designated smoking areas outside the terminal building, adhering to Florida law, which requires smokers to stay at least 20 feet away from any entrance or exit. Similarly, Miami International Airport (MIA) only permits smoking in designated spots outside the terminals, at least 25 feet from entrances.

Some airports, such as Indianapolis Airport, have extended their no-smoking policies to outdoor areas, ensuring a completely smoke-free environment. This trend is gaining momentum, with 90% of U.S. adults being non-smokers and a growing number of airports worldwide adopting 100% smoke-free policies.

While some airports still provide indoor smoking lounges, such as Las Vegas Airport, Memphis, Nashville, and Cincinnati-Northern KY, these areas do not effectively prevent secondhand smoke from spreading throughout the building, posing health risks to travellers and staff.

As a result, airports without smoking areas are becoming more prevalent, reflecting a shift towards prioritizing the health and comfort of all individuals within the airport premises.

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