Roberta Aguirre
Orlando is a popular travel destination known for its theme parks, vibrant entertainment, and beautiful weather. The city is served by two major airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Orlando International Airport is located just 13 miles from downtown Orlando and is the closest airport to Disney World. It is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, with major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, and United Airlines offering frequent service. On the other hand, Orlando Sanford International Airport is located 27 miles from Orlando and is a better option for those looking for a more relaxed travel experience as it is less crowded. Both airports offer distinct benefits and cater to different types of travellers.
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What You'll Learn
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
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 11,605 acres (4,696 ha). It features two terminals, each with two separate airside concourses, and is served by a variety of international and domestic airlines. The airport is also a designated Space Shuttle emergency landing site and has North America's fourth-tallest control tower.
MCO is easily accessible by various transportation options. Local buses are the cheapest way to get to and from the airport, with buses 11 and 51 offering service to downtown Orlando for just $2 per person. Shuttle services are also available to and from the airport for those staying in the Greater Orlando area. If you're staying directly on Disney property, a free shuttle to and from the airport is provided by the Disney resort.
Orlando International Airport is a popular choice for travellers due to its strategic location and proximity to major highways, popular beaches, and theme parks. It is also a major international gateway for the Florida region, with over 1,000 daily flights serving over 170 domestic and international destinations. In 2024, MCO handled 57,211,628 passengers, making it the busiest airport in Florida and the ninth busiest in the United States.
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Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
Orlando Sanford International Airport started life as Naval Air Station Sanford, a Master Jet Base for carrier-based attack and reconnaissance aircraft, and was used by the U.S. Navy until 1969. The City of Sanford assumed control of the airport in 1969 and renamed it Sanford Airport. The airport has since undergone several name changes, including Sanford Regional Airport, Central Florida Regional Airport, and Orlando Sanford Regional Airport, before becoming Orlando Sanford International Airport.
The airport has two terminals for international and domestic air traffic and offers free Wi-Fi and eateries. It is farther away from downtown Orlando and attractions like Walt Disney World than the primary airport, Orlando International Airport (MCO). However, it is a great option if you're looking for a cheap way to get to Daytona Beach, as it's only 45 miles away.
When considering Orlando Sanford International Airport, it's important to note that there aren't any public transit options available. Therefore, renting a car or arranging alternative transportation is essential. Despite this, many travellers appreciate the shorter lines and faster processing at Orlando Sanford International Airport compared to MCO, especially when it comes to customs and immigration.
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Transport options
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport to Disney and is well-connected to the Beachline Expressway, which leads to Cape Canaveral and Cocoa Beach. The airport is served by local buses, which are the cheapest way to travel to and from the airport. Bus 11 runs to the downtown area, costing $2 per person and arriving in under an hour. The bus runs every 30 minutes between 4 am and 7 pm on weekdays and every hour after 7 pm or on Sundays.
If you are staying at a Disney resort, you can take advantage of the free shuttle provided by the resort. There are also several shuttle companies offering transportation to and from the airport to other hotels in the area and surrounding cities. Mears Connect is one such company, offering shuttle services to Walt Disney World Resorts, Disney Springs Resorts, and other Disney area resorts. The company provides ample luggage room and offers standard and express shuttle services.
If you prefer a private transfer, you can opt for a taxi or a ride-share service like Uber. Orlando Transportation offers an airport shuttle service, as well as limo services. For those who prefer to drive themselves, rental cars are available at the airport.
Orlando-Sanford Airport (SFB) is another option, located at 1200 Red Cleveland Blvd., Sanford, FL 32773. This airport is further from Disney and lacks public transportation options. However, it may be a good choice if you plan to rent a car, as the shorter lines may offset the increased travel time. Orlando Sanford International Airport also offers transportation services, including shuttle services and limo services.
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Location
Orlando, Florida, is a popular travel destination known for its world-renowned theme parks, vibrant entertainment, and beautiful weather. The city is served by two major airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB).
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport is located just 13 miles southeast of downtown Orlando. This proximity makes it the premier gateway for millions of tourists visiting the city's famed attractions, such as Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and Cocoa Beach. The airport has two terminals, each with two separate airside concourses, and offers a range of transportation options, including car rentals, ride-sharing services, shuttle services, and the Lynx bus system. It is also accessible by the SunRail, which links the airport to key locations throughout the city. MCO is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, with major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and international carriers like British Airways, Lufthansa, and Emirates serving the airport.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
Orlando Sanford International Airport is located 27 miles from downtown Orlando and is a smaller, less crowded alternative to MCO. It is a great option for domestic travellers seeking a more relaxed travel experience with quick transfers and shorter waits. However, it has fewer transportation options, and ground transportation costs can be higher compared to MCO. SFB is the hub for Allegiant Air and is served by other popular domestic airlines such as Sun Country Airlines, TUI Airways, and Via Air.
Other Airports
In addition to the two major airports, there are several smaller airports in the Orlando area, including the Orlando Executive Airport (5 miles from Orlando), Walt Disney World Airport (23 miles from Orlando), and Kissimmee Gateway Airport (25 miles from Orlando).
When deciding which airport to choose, consider your specific travel needs and preferences. MCO is ideal for those seeking quick access to amusement parks and central locations, while SFB may be preferred for those wanting a more relaxed travel experience with shorter waits, especially if renting a car or travelling domestically.
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Traveller reviews
Orlando is served by two major airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Both airports offer distinct advantages and cater to different types of travellers.
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
MCO is the closest airport to Disney and is just 13 miles from downtown Orlando. It is easily accessible through various public transportation options, including the SunRail, which links the airport to key locations throughout the city. The airport also offers car rentals, ride-share services, shuttle services, and the Lynx bus system. MCO is a major hub for both domestic and international flights, with major airlines such as Delta, American Airlines, United, Southwest, JetBlue, and international carriers like British Airways, Lufthansa, and Emirates serving the airport. The airport has two terminals, each with separate airside concourses, and a free mobile app that provides information on security wait times and flight details.
MCO is a popular choice for travellers due to its central location and convenient access to Orlando's main tourist attractions. Some reviewers appreciate the range of transportation options available, making it easy to get to and from the airport. However, others have noted that MCO can be crowded, and it may take a long time to get through security and baggage handling. The airport also offers an onsite hotel, the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport, which is convenient for early morning flights or late arrivals.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
Located 27 miles from downtown Orlando, SFB is a smaller airport that caters more to domestic travellers seeking a relaxed travel experience. The airport has shorter lines and wait times, and it is a great option for those looking for cheaper flights or wanting to rent a car. SFB is the hub for Allegiant Air and is served by other domestic airlines like Sun Country Airlines, TUI Airways, and Via Air.
Some travellers prefer SFB due to its smaller size, quicker customs and immigration processes, and shorter travel time to certain destinations. However, it is important to note that SFB has fewer transportation options, and ground transportation costs can be higher if you are not renting a car. While SFB does not have as many dining and shopping options as MCO, reviewers appreciate the quicker transfers and shorter waits.
In summary, both MCO and SFB have their advantages and cater to different traveller needs. MCO is ideal for those seeking convenient access to Orlando's attractions and a wider range of transportation options, while SFB is preferred by those looking for a more relaxed travel experience, quicker transfers, and lower airfares.
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Frequently asked questions
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the closest airport to Disney and is just 13 miles from downtown Orlando. It is a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is also a good option, especially for those looking to rent a car. It is located 27 miles from Orlando and is a smaller airport with fewer transportation options.
Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) is another option, located 53 miles from Orlando.
The most direct route is via the SunRail, which links the airport to key locations throughout the city. The Lynx bus network also services the airport and provides broader coverage across the region. Ride-sharing and taxi services are also available but are more costly.
There are no public transit options available from this airport, so a rental car or taxi is necessary.
