southwest airlines orlando international airport
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is a bustling hub for travelers heading to the Sunshine State’s theme parks, beaches, and beyond. If you’re flying with Southwest Airlines, known for its low fares, no-fee baggage policy, and friendly service, you’re in for a convenient experience. This guide covers everything from terminals and check-in to tips for making your trip seamless. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a frequent visitor to MCO, we’ve got the insights to help you navigate with ease.
Navigating Southwest’s Terminal at MCO
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively out of Terminal B at Orlando International Airport, making it straightforward for passengers to find their way. Terminal B handles all domestic flights for Southwest, which is ideal for those heading to popular destinations like Chicago, Dallas, or Baltimore.
Key Terminal Features
- Level 1: Arrivals, baggage claim, and ground transportation.
- Level 2: Ticket counters, check-in kiosks, and security checkpoints.
- Level 3: Gates B1 through B45, with Southwest gates typically clustered in the B30-B45 range for efficiency.
Pro tip: MCO’s central atrium connects Terminals A, B, and C via a free automated people mover (APM) train, so if you’re connecting from another airline, transit is quick—under five minutes. Arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights to account for security lines, which can peak during theme park seasons like summer or holidays.
Southwest’s no-assigned-seating policy means you’ll check in online 24 hours in advance to snag a better boarding position. At the airport, head straight to the self-service kiosks in Terminal B for a speedy process.
Check-In, Baggage, and Boarding Process
Southwest stands out with its customer-friendly policies, especially at busy airports like MCO. Here’s how to handle the essentials:
Baggage Allowances and Fees
Southwest allows two free checked bags per passenger (up to 50 lbs each), a rarity among airlines. Carry-on bags are also free, with dimensions up to 24x16x10 inches. For Orlando-bound travelers, this is a game-changer if you’re packing souvenirs from Disney World or Universal Studios.
- Tip: Weigh your bags at home to avoid surprises. MCO has free bag-drop stations for Southwest Rapid Rewards members, saving time at the counter.
- Example: On a recent flight from MCO to Denver, a family of four checked eight bags without extra fees, contrasting with competitors who charge $30+ per bag.
Boarding starts with A-group (elite status or early check-in), followed by B and C. Families with young children board early, regardless of group— a thoughtful touch for stressed parents en route to Orlando’s family attractions.
Ground Transportation and Parking Options
Getting to and from MCO with Southwest is hassle-free, thanks to the airport’s integrated transport hub.
Airport Transfers
- Rideshares and Taxis: Uber and Lyft drop off and pick up at Level 1 curbside. Expect a 20-30 minute ride to downtown Orlando or theme parks, costing $25-40.
- Rental Cars: Southwest partners with major companies like Alamo and Budget, located in the nearby rental car center. A free shuttle runs every 10 minutes from Terminal B.
- Public Transport: Lynx buses connect to Orlando’s attractions for budget travelers—Route 49 goes to International Drive for under $5.
For parking, Southwest flyers love the Economy Lot, just a short shuttle from Terminal B, at $13/day. Valet parking in the terminal garage is pricier ($20/day) but convenient for quick turnarounds.
Insight: If arriving for an early flight, book airport shuttles via Southwest’s app for bundled deals, often 20% cheaper than standalone options.
Dining, Shopping, and Amenities in Terminal B
Terminal B offers a taste of Florida’s vibrant scene while you wait for your Southwest flight.
Food and Retail Highlights
- Dining: Grab a quick Cuban sandwich at Poinciana Cafe or fresh poke at Shakertown. For healthier bites, Freshens serves smoothies perfect for hot Florida days.
- Shopping: Browse Florida-themed souvenirs at Orlando Gateway Gifts or pick up travel essentials from InMotion Entertainment.
Southwest’s gates in Terminal B are steps from these spots, so you can dine without rushing. Free Wi-Fi covers the entire terminal, and charging stations are plentiful—essential for streaming Disney planning apps.
Pro tip: Download the MCO app for real-time gate changes and dining wait times, ensuring you don’t miss your flight to that Magic Kingdom adventure.
Southwest vs. Other Airlines at MCO: A Quick Comparison
To help you evaluate, here’s a markdown table comparing Southwest with two popular alternatives at MCO—Delta and Spirit—for key traveler concerns:
| Feature | Southwest Airlines | Delta Air Lines | Spirit Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal | B (Domestic) | A (Domestic/International) | A (Domestic) |
| Baggage Policy | 2 free checked bags (50 lbs each) | 1st bag $30, 2nd $40 | Carry-on $35-65, checked $30-50 |
| Seating | Open seating (check-in based) | Assigned seats | Assigned (fees for premium) |
| Change Fees | None (fare difference may apply) | $0 for Main Cabin (waived) | $99+ per change |
| MCO Flight Volume | High (100+ daily domestic) | High (international focus) | Low-cost domestic only |
| Best For | Families, flexible travelers | Business, international connections | Budget solo trips |
This table highlights Southwest’s edge in affordability and flexibility, ideal for Orlando’s leisure crowd.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Southwest Flight from MCO
- Early Check-In: Use the Southwest app 24 hours prior to secure A-group boarding—vital during peak times like spring break.
- Security Shortcuts: Opt for TSA PreCheck ($78 for 5 years) to breeze through lines; MCO’s checkpoints in Terminal B average 15 minutes with it.
- Weather Prep: Florida thunderstorms can delay flights—monitor via FlightAware and arrive extra early.
- Rewards Perks: Join Rapid Rewards for free points on MCO routes; redeem for free checked bags or priority boarding.
By following these, you’ll maximize your time enjoying Orlando rather than stressing at the airport.
In summary, Southwest Airlines makes flying from Orlando International Airport efficient and budget-friendly. With its prime Terminal B spot and passenger-centric policies, it’s a top choice for your next Florida getaway.
Credible Sources
- Southwest Airlines Official Website: southwest.com
- Orlando International Airport (MCO): flyorlando.com
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Airport Data: faa.gov
- Travel Insights from U.S. Department of Transportation: transportation.gov
