Ruth Haines
Orlando Airport, also known as MCO, is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving as a major gateway to Central Florida. With its proximity to popular tourist destinations such as Walt Disney World, the airport experiences a high volume of passenger traffic throughout the year. The airport's security wait times can vary significantly, ranging from efficient passage to lengthy delays. Factors such as flight traffic, TSA staffing, and travellers' familiarity with airport procedures contribute to the unpredictable nature of wait times at MCO.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Security Wait Times | Calculated using historical flight traffic data and TSA staffing schedules |
| TSA PreCheck Hours | 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM |
| CLEAR Plus Lanes Hours | 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| CLEAR Plus Lanes Enrollment | 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM |
| TSA Recommendation | Arrive well ahead of the flight's scheduled departure time |
| Security Wait Times Accuracy | Reasonably accurate except in extraordinary situations |
| Security Checkpoints | TSA Terminal West Checkpoint, TSA Terminal East Checkpoint, Terminal C Checkpoint |
What You'll Learn
TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a busy airport, and it's always advisable to check for departure delays and security wait times in advance. To streamline your journey through the airport, you can consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus, which offer expedited security screening.
TSA PreCheck is a U.S. government program that identifies travellers deemed low-risk by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Once approved, travellers can pass through security without removing their shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts, or light jackets. This program is available at over 200 airports, including Orlando International Airport, and caters to select frequent flyers and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveller programs. At MCO, TSA PreCheck is available at the TSA Terminal West Checkpoint (Gates 1-59) and the TSA Terminal East Checkpoint (Gates 70-129) from 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily.
CLEAR Plus is a service that provides expedited security screening at multiple locations within the airport, including dedicated CLEAR Lanes at Terminal C, East Security (Gates 70-129), and West Security (Gates 1-59). CLEAR Plus offers a quick identity verification experience at the airport using your face, eyes, or fingers. This service is available daily from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM at MCO.
You can enrol in both TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus to ensure the fastest route through the airport. These services complement each other, and bundling your enrolment can provide special pricing for the first year. The bundle includes 5 years of TSA PreCheck for $77.95 and 1 year of CLEAR Plus for as low as $121.05, resulting in a savings of up to $77.95 on your first year of CLEAR Plus Membership.
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Security wait times
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a very unpredictable airport, with some travellers reporting that it can take as little as 10 minutes to get through security, while others report that it has taken them several hours. The consensus is that it is a busy airport, with long, slow-moving lines.
The TSA recommends that all passengers arrive at the airport well ahead of their scheduled departure time. There are a few ways to streamline your security experience at MCO. One way is to enrol in the TSA PreCheck program, which offers expedited security screening at participating airports, including MCO. This allows travellers to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, and their laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags. TSA PreCheck is available daily from 4:00 AM to 8:00 PM at the TSA Terminal West Checkpoint (Gates 1-59) and the TSA Terminal East Checkpoint (Gates 70-129).
Another option is to sign up for CLEAR Plus, which is also available at MCO. CLEAR Plus provides expedited security screening and has counters at all security checkpoints. CLEAR Plus members can move faster through dedicated CLEAR lanes at any open airport location. CLEAR Plus is available daily from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM at Terminal C, East Security (Gates 70-129), and West Security (Gates 1-59).
Additionally, MCO Reserve by Clear is a free service that allows travellers to make a reservation for a specific time to go through TSA, potentially saving time and avoiding long lines.
It is also recommended to check security wait times online, as these can vary greatly, and to give yourself a time buffer to get through security. Arriving at the airport 1.5 to 2 hours before your flight is generally considered enough time, especially with TSA PreCheck. However, some travellers recommend arriving 2.5 to 3 hours early, especially if you have checked luggage or are flying at peak times.
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Orlando Airport's Lost and Found
Orlando International Airport (MCO) has its own Lost and Found department to assist with lost items at the airport. The Lost and Found office is located on Level 1 of Terminal A (Main Processing Office), Level 3 of Terminal B, and Terminal C Level 1. The operating hours vary by terminal: Terminal A and B offices are open from 7:00 am to 7:30 pm, and Terminal C is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm.
There are several ways to report a missing item at Orlando Airport: in person at the Lost and Found office, by phone, or by using an online form. When reporting a lost item, it is important to provide as much detail as possible, including the date and time of travel, a detailed description of the item, and any unique features to help identify and recover the item.
If you believe you have lost an item on an aircraft, you should contact the airline you travelled with. Each airline may have specific protocols for handling lost items on their planes. Additionally, if you have lost your checked baggage, you can contact your airline's baggage services for assistance in locating your bag or filing a claim.
For items lost at a TSA security checkpoint, you can find the relevant contact information on the TSA website. It is recommended to report lost items as soon as possible to increase the chances of recovering them.
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Orlando Airport restaurants and shopping
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the largest airport in its state and offers a wide range of facilities for visitors to enjoy.
There is no shortage of dining options at MCO, with cafes, restaurants, a food court, lounges, and convenience stores located throughout the airport. No matter which terminal you're in, you're never far from a delicious meal or a quick bite.
If you're looking for a sit-down dining experience, MCO has several restaurants and lounges to choose from. Chipotle Mexican Grill and Asian Chao Oriental Eatery are great choices for a casual meal, while Chili's Grill & Bar offers a more traditional American dining experience. For those with a sweet tooth, Natalie's Candy Jar is sure to delight.
The airport's lounges are known for their lavish cocktails and mouthwatering buffets. The Admiral's Club, located at gates 30-59, and the Delta Sky Club, at gates 70-99, offer a relaxing atmosphere to unwind before your flight. The Plaza Premium Lounge in Terminal C, Palm Court, provides a convenient spot to freshen up and enjoy a bite. The Club MCO, with locations at gates 1-29 and 70-99, and the United Club, at gates 30-59, round out the lounge options, ensuring you have plenty of choices to enhance your travel experience.
Convenience stores like 7-ELEVEN, located at the South Travel Plaza, are also available for any last-minute snacks or travel essentials.
With such a diverse range of dining and shopping options, MCO ensures that all your needs and cravings are satisfied during your time at Orlando International Airport.
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Orlando Airport parking
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers each year. With such a high volume of travellers, finding convenient and affordable parking can be challenging. Here is a comprehensive guide to Orlando Airport parking to help make your travel experience smoother:
On-Airport Parking:
Orlando International Airport offers several parking options within the airport premises. The closest option is terminal parking, located directly across from the main terminals. This is ideal for passengers who want quick and easy access to their gates. However, it can be more expensive than other long-term parking options. The airport also provides economy parking, which is a short shuttle ride away from the terminals. This option is perfect for those looking for more affordable rates for long-term parking.
Off-Airport Parking Lots:
If you're looking for more economical parking solutions, consider off-airport parking lots. These lots are typically located within a few miles of the airport and offer lower parking rates compared to on-airport options. They usually provide free shuttle services to and from the airport, ensuring you get to your terminal on time. Some popular off-airport parking choices near MCO include Park Bark and Fly, The Parking Spot, and JetPark Orlando.
Parking Reservations and Discounts:
To secure your parking spot and save money, consider making parking reservations in advance. Many off-airport parking lots offer online reservations and provide discounts for early bookings. Additionally, look out for promotions and loyalty programs offered by these parking companies, which can further reduce your parking expenses.
Valet Parking:
For a more luxurious and convenient experience, you can opt for valet parking services. This option allows you to drop off your car at the airport entrance, and a valet will park it for you. Upon your return, your car will be waiting for you, saving you time and hassle. However, valet parking tends to be the most expensive option.
Long-Term Parking:
If you're planning an extended trip and need long-term parking, consider the remote parking options offered by the airport or off-site parking lots. These locations often provide discounted weekly or monthly rates, making them ideal for travellers who need to leave their vehicles for more extended periods.
In summary, while Orlando Airport can be busy, planning your parking in advance can significantly improve your overall travel experience. By choosing the most suitable option for your needs and budget, you can ensure a seamless journey to and from the airport. Remember to check for updates and real-time parking availability before your trip to make informed decisions.
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Frequently asked questions
The security wait times vary depending on traffic and TSA staffing schedules. It is recommended to arrive at the airport well ahead of your flight's scheduled departure time.
You can enrol in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR Plus, which offer expedited security screening.
TSA PreCheck offers expedited security screening at participating airports, including Orlando Airport. Benefits include being able to keep your shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, as well as leaving your laptop and compliant liquids in your carry-on bag during security checks.
You can find detailed information on how to enrol in the iFly TSA PreCheck Guide.
If you lose an item at a TSA checkpoint, you should contact the Orlando Airport's Lost and Found as soon as possible and provide a detailed description of your item.
