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Orlando, Florida, is home to two international airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Orlando International Airport is the primary international airport located 6 miles southeast of downtown Orlando. It is one of the largest commercial airports in the United States in terms of land area, covering 47 square kilometers. The airport code MCO comes from the airport's former name, McCoy Air Force Base, which was closed in 1975. Orlando International Airport is a major international gateway for the Florida region, with over 1,000 daily flights serving over 170 domestic and international destinations.
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What You'll Learn
- Orlando International Airport (MCO) is 6 miles southeast of downtown Orlando
- MCO is one of the largest commercial airports in the US in terms of land area
- MCO has 2 terminals, with plans to add a third
- MCO is the busiest airport in Florida and the 9th busiest in the US
- Orlando Sanford International Airport offers fast and affordable travel
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is 6 miles southeast of downtown Orlando
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is conveniently located just 6 miles southeast of downtown Orlando, Florida. With its central position in the state, it is a popular airport for many domestic and international travellers. MCO is one of the largest commercial airports in the United States in terms of land area, covering 47 square kilometres (18.1 sq mi) and featuring North America's fourth-tallest control tower.
MCO has a rich history, having been constructed as a U.S. Army Air Forces facility, with military operations beginning in 1942 as Orlando Army Air Field #2. The airport was also previously known as McCoy Air Force Base, a Strategic Air Command installation that closed in 1975 following the end of the Vietnam War. The airport code MCO is a nod to this former name.
Today, Orlando International Airport boasts a range of facilities for travellers, including a food court, shops, and lounges. There is also a Hyatt Regency hotel located within the terminal, offering convenient accommodation for connecting passengers or those with early morning flights. The terminal has two security checkpoints, leading to four airside concourses with various gates for domestic and international flights.
Orlando International Airport is well-connected to the city and surrounding attractions. It is the primary international airport in Orlando, serving as an operating base for several major airlines and offering over 1,000 daily flights to more than 170 domestic and international destinations. The airport is also easily accessible by road, with a parking garage located opposite the terminal building. Additionally, the Brightline high-speed regional rail service provides connections to South Florida, enhancing the accessibility of the airport for passengers travelling by train.
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MCO is one of the largest commercial airports in the US in terms of land area
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the largest commercial airports in the United States in terms of land area. Covering 11,605 acres (4,696 hectares), it is the fifth-largest airport in the country by land area. MCO is located 6 miles (9.5-9.7 km) southeast of downtown Orlando, Florida, and is the primary international airport in the region. With its central position in the state and proximity to major attractions like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando, it is a popular choice for domestic and international travellers.
MCO has a rich history, having first been constructed as a U.S. Army Air Forces facility during World War II. Military operations began in 1942, with the airfield serving as an auxiliary to the Orlando Army Air Base, now known as the Orlando Executive Airport. The airfield was initially named Orlando Army Air Field #2, but was later renamed Pinecastle Army Airfield in January 1943. After the war, the facility was briefly used for glide tests of the Bell X-1 aircraft before the program moved to California.
The airport's code, MCO, originates from its former name, McCoy Air Force Base, a Strategic Air Command (SAC) installation that was closed in 1975 following the end of the Vietnam War. During the 1970s, Shawnee Airlines operated direct flights between MCO and the Walt Disney World STOL Airport, a small airfield near the Magic Kingdom's parking lot. MCO has continued to expand and develop over the years, with the addition of new terminals and increased air service to the region.
Today, MCO boasts a range of facilities for travellers, including a food court, shops, lounges, and a hotel. The airport serves as a base for several airlines, including Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. It is also a focus city for JetBlue, with Southwest being the largest carrier by passenger numbers. MCO offers over 1,000 daily flights on more than 40 airlines, serving 91 domestic and 59 international destinations. With its size, history, and role as a major transportation hub, MCO is a significant airport in the United States.
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MCO has 2 terminals, with plans to add a third
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary international airport located 6 miles (9.7 km) southeast of downtown Orlando, Florida. Covering 47 square kilometers (18.1 sq mi), it is the fifth-largest airport in the United States by land area. MCO is one of the largest commercial airports in the country in terms of land area and is the busiest airport in Florida.
The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) approved the construction of the $1.8 billion South Terminal Complex, of which Terminal C is a part. The South Terminal Complex is planned to have an additional terminal, Terminal D, when the airport reaches 70 million passengers. Terminal C serves both domestic and international flights and has customs and immigration facilities on the upper level. The terminal has 15 gates, with 4 more planned for the future.
MCO's history dates back to the 1940s when it was a U.S. Army Air Forces facility. The airfield, known as Orlando Army Air Field #2, became operational in 1942 as an auxiliary airfield to the Orlando Army Air Base, now the Orlando Executive Airport. The airport's code, MCO, originates from its former name, McCoy Air Force Base, a Strategic Air Command installation closed in 1975 following the Vietnam War.
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MCO is the busiest airport in Florida and the 9th busiest in the US
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the busiest airport in Florida and the ninth busiest in the United States. MCO is located 6 miles (9.7 km) southeast of downtown Orlando, Florida. The airport's code, MCO, is derived from its former name, McCoy Air Force Base, a Strategic Air Command (SAC) installation that was closed in 1975 following the end of the Vietnam War.
MCO has experienced significant growth in passenger traffic over the years. In 1978, the airport handled 5 million passengers, while in 2018, that number had surged to 47 million. The airport covers a vast area of 47 square kilometers (18.1 sq mi), making it the fifth-largest airport in the United States by land area. MCO boasts North America's fourth-tallest control tower, standing at an impressive 345 feet.
The airport serves as a major hub for several airlines, including Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines. Southwest Airlines is the largest carrier at MCO by passenger numbers. Additionally, JetBlue has established a focus city at the airport. MCO offers an extensive network of flights, serving over 170 domestic and international destinations with more than 40 airlines. The airport is also well-connected through road networks, with two toll roads, SR 528 (Beachline Expressway) and SR 417 (Central Florida GreeneWay), providing easy access and automatic toll collection.
MCO has continued to expand and improve its facilities. In 2023, Brightline opened a station at MCO, providing high-speed rail service to South Florida. The airport has also seen the resumption of international services to Brazil, England, and Hawaii, contributing to its strong year-end numbers. With its convenient location, efficient operations, and continuous growth, MCO is set to handle even more passengers in the coming years, solidifying its position as one of the busiest airports in Florida and the United States.
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Orlando Sanford International Airport offers fast and affordable travel
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) offers an efficient and cost-effective travel experience. With direct flights to a range of destinations, travellers can quickly reach their desired locations without feeling crowded or overwhelmed. This airport is an excellent choice for families, as it provides a convenient and friendly environment with timely services.
One of the standout features of Orlando Sanford International Airport is its efficiency in handling direct flights. Passengers appreciate the speed and convenience of their services, ensuring they are quickly on their way to their chosen destinations. The airport also boasts a reliable record with luggage, ensuring bags are not lost and providing peace of mind for travellers.
For those travelling with pets, Orlando Sanford International Airport is a trusted option. The airport is praised for its considerate treatment of animals, making it a preferred choice for those with four-legged companions. The airport also offers a range of travel tips and news to help families plan their journeys effectively.
Orlando Sanford International Airport serves as a gateway to some of Florida's most popular destinations. From amusement parks to local hotspots and family-fun attractions, travellers can easily access a variety of exciting locations. The airport's direct flights also open up affordable travel options across North America, Europe, and South America, making it a versatile hub for explorers on a budget.
In addition to its leisure travel offerings, Orlando Sanford International Airport also caters to business travellers. With its Smart For Business initiative, the airport provides convenient services tailored to business needs. This includes timely news, travel tips, and destination suggestions to help businesses and their families navigate travel across the United States efficiently.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there is an international airport in Orlando, Florida.
The airport code for Orlando International Airport is MCO, which comes from the airport's former name, McCoy Air Force Base.
Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States. In 2024, it was ranked as the ninth busiest airport in the country with 57,211,628 passengers.
