what terminal is southwest airlines at orlando airport
Ever been stuck looking for Southwest and ended up wandering the wrong side of the airport?
If you’re flying with Southwest to or from Orlando, knowing the exact terminal and the practical details that follow can save you hours and keep stress at bay. This guide covers everything from where the gates are located to the best sanity‑saving tips during your airport experience.
Where Is Southwest Airlines Located at Orlando International Airport?
All Southwest flights operate out of Terminal 4 at Orlando International Airport, the main passenger terminal.
- Check‑in counters: Southwest’s check‑in kiosks and counters are situated on the lower level of Terminal 4, usually around the middle of the concourse.
- Security: Southwest’s security lane is right after the gates in Terminal 4, so you’ll see the red “Southwest” logo on the mezzanine level.
- Boarding gates: Gates 45–72 (for domestic flights) and 73–85 (for international—or cross‑border—destinations).
Tip: If you’re arriving by rental car or taxi, follow the signs in the parking garage that point specifically to “Southwest” next to “Terminal 4.” It’s a busy corner, so look for the bright Southwest signage to avoid the crowd at the check‑in.
Why Terminal 4 Is the Hometown for Southwest Travelers
1. Centralized Services
Terminal 4 contains most of Orlando’s passenger services: coffee shops, rental car counters, shops, and a bus terminal. It’s a one‑stop hub, meaning you rarely need to walk long distances.
2. Dedicated Air‑Fare Area
Southwest’s kiosks are buried in a dedicated area that reduces confusion and cuts queue time – especially in the high‑traffic summer season.
3. Proximity to the Parking Garage
Terminals 4 and 5 share exit ramps from the multiple parking levels. However, the West Parking Garage (covers 3,500 spots) drains directly to the Southwest check‑in area, saving you a 4‑minute walk.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Southwest MCO Experience
| Situation | Recommendation | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival time | Arrive 45 min before departure (earlier for international). | Southwest’s counter procedures are fast, but peak times (weekends, holidays) can still cause delays. |
| Mobile check‑in | Download the “Southwest” app, complete mobile boarding pass, and grab a tote bag. | You can skip the counter if you’re traveling with just a carry‑on. |
| Baggage claim | Take the “Baggage Claim” sign off the terminal (Gate 70–85). | Baggage is automatically routed to a unified carousel, and there’s a visible “Southwest” sticker. |
| Lost‑and‑found | Report missing items at the Southwest customer service desk on the mezzanine level. | They’ll send an email/phone follow‑up within 24 hrs. |
| Health & safety | Southwest requires a signed health statement when checking bags; bring transparency forms printed or mobile. | The signs in Terminal 4 show step‑by‑step guidance for this. |
Quick Comparison: Southwest vs. Other Major Airlines at MCO
| Airline | Terminal | Check‑in | Baggage Claim | Accessibility Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest | 4 | Dedicated kiosks & counters | Single carousel, labeled “Southwest” | Most elevators & ramps available; Southwest’s security line is separate |
| Delta | 4 | Shared check‑in area with Southwest | Separate carousel | Same terminal, but Delta’s gates are farther down the concourse |
| United | 4 | Shared check‑in area | Separate carousel | Bay B gates are considered “high‑density” |
| American | 5 | Dedicated check‑in stairs | Separate carousel | In Terminal 5; pick the “American” signage |
| JetBlue / Hawaiian | 5 | Shared kiosks | Separate carousel | Also in Terminal 5; near the low‑cost lounge area |
Key takeaway: If you’re flying with Southwest, you won’t need to cross to Terminal 5. But be mindful of other airline crowds that share Terminal 4.
What If I Need to Switch Airlines at MCO?
Imagine you’re arriving on a Delta flight and need to connect to a Southwest flight. The best practice is to stay on the same concourse and simply walk across the wide, open area between gates on the upper level. Terminal 4 is designed to keep “direct” connections and cross‑terminal itineraries straightforward.
If you do touch a different terminal (e.g., from Terminal 4 to Terminal 5), use the Inter‑Terminal Shuttle. It runs every 10–15 minutes and has a nominal fee (~$3.50 for a 15‑minute ride). Check the airport’s mobile app for real‑time shuttle status.
Final Checklist Before Boarding Southwest at MCO
- Check your flight status on the Southwest website or the airport app.
- Verify your terminal number (always Terminal 4 for Southwest).
- Download the Southwest app for your boarding pass and real‑time updates.
- Have your health statement ready (if applicable).
- Locate the nearest security lane and line up early; it’s a soon‑moving lane.
- Confirm your baggage allowance (carry‑on: 1 free, 1 paid; checked bag: 1 free if you are a Southwest Plus member).
Credible Sources
- Orlando International Airport (MCO) – Official page on terminals and airline assignments: https://www.mcorp.org
- Southwest Airlines – Terminal and flight information section: https://www.southwest.com
- Travel + Leisure – Comparative guide on Orlando Airport terminals: https://www.travelandleisure.com
- U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Aviation Administration – Airport layout data: https://www.faa.gov
All facts were current as of October 2025. Always double‑check closer to your travel date because terminal assignments can shift due to construction or airline strategy.
