what terminal is southwest airlines at orlando international airport
If you’re flying with Southwest and heading to Orlando International Airport (MCO), this guide will help you navigate the terminals, gates, and parking confidently.
Understanding Orlando International Airport’s Terminal Layout
Orlando International Airport is divided into several terminals, each serving a specific set of airlines and flight types:
| Terminal | Main Airlines | Typical Flight Type | Gate Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal A (Lounge A) | Southwest | Domestic | 1‑50 |
| Terminal B (South West) | Southwest | Domestic | 1‑50 |
| Terminal C/E (North Wiman) | Various | International & Domestic | 1‑162 |
| Terminals 1‑5 | Misc. carriers & cargo | NA | NA |
Southwest Airlines, along with other U.S. low‑cost carriers (Alaska Air, Alaska, Sun Country, etc.), uses Terminals A and B (collectively referred to as “Southwest Terminal”) in addition to the newer Terminal C/E that houses the main international terminal (Terminal C).
Southwest’s Primary Terminals at MCO
Southwest Terminal (Terminals A & B)
- Location: North‑east side of the airport, adjacent to the main parking lot (LT1 & LT2).
- Gate Distribution: Gates 1‑50 are split almost evenly between Terminal A (odd gates) and Terminal B (even gates).
- Amenities: Free Wi‑Fi, snack bars, seating areas, and multiple security checkpoints.
- Passenger Flow: Gates in Southwest Terminal are usually shorter walk distances to the parking lot, and the terminal is designed to accommodate quick turnarounds typical of Southwest operations.
International Terminal (Terminal C)
While not the primary gate area for Southwest, some Southwest international flights (e.g., to Mexico, Central America, Caribbean) are based here.
- Location: The main building located at the northeast end of the runway (Opposite the Southwest Terminal).
- Gate Distribution: Gates 161‑162 (our example) sit in the international concourse.
- Amenities: Duty‑free, larger lounges, more extensive shopping and dining options.
- Security: Enhanced screening requirements for international arrivals.
How to Get to Southwest Gates Quickly
Below are step‑by‑step instructions that covered 2024 travelers and can help you move more efficiently:
Check Your Gate
- Southwest’s booking confirmation lists the specific gate number.
- On arrival at the airport, look for the “Southwest” signage or ask a staff member which gate.
Use the Quick‑Walk Path
- Inside the Terminal, walk the “Southwest Path”— a direct route that bypasses unnecessary security checks.
- This route is well‑lit and features arrows guiding travelers straight to their gate.
Parking & Shuttle
- Long‑Term: Use LT1 or LT2 to stay close to your gate.
- Short‑Term: “Main” parking (M1‑M6) provides a ~3‑minute walk to the terminal.
- Free Shuttle: There’s a free shuttle from all parking lots to each terminal. Look for the “Grey” shuttle.
Avoid Crowds During Peak Times
- Early mornings (5–8 am) and late evenings (9–11 pm) are usually less busy.
- Falling into these off‑peak windows can reduce security wait times by 30%.
- Use the Mobile App
- MCO Airport App: Real‑time gate updates, walk times, and directional maps.
- Southwest App: Provides in‑flight discounts and boarding pass scanning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does Southwest always use Terminals A & B? | Yes, for domestic flights. International services may be in Terminal C/E. |
| Are there any gate changes between terminals? | Gate changes happen but are communicated via the MCO app or gate monitors. Check a few hours before boarding. |
| How far is the Southwest terminal from the main arrival area? | Approximately 0.5 miles; by shuttle this is ~2‑3 minutes. |
| Is Southwest’s TSA checkpoint separate? | Southwest passengers use the “Southwest” TSA line as part of the shared security lane for domestic flights. |
| Do I need a separate boarding pass for international Southwest flights? | No; the same boarding pass covers security, baggage, and international customs. |
Comparison: Southwest vs. Other Major Terminals
| Feature | Southwest (Terminals A & B) | International Terminal (C/E) | Other U.S. Carriers (D/E) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Flight Type | Domestic | International & Domestic | International & Domestic |
| Security Screening | Standard | Enhanced (if needed) | Standard |
| Gate Count | 1‑50 | 51‑162 | 163‑200 |
| Amenities | Snacks, Wi‑Fi | Duty‑free, lounges | Varied |
| Parking Proximity | Closest (LT1/2, M1‑M6) | Medium (M4‑M6) | Medium to far |
| Average Walk to Gate | < 5 minutes | ~10-12 minutes | Varies |
Practical Tips for Southwest Travelers at MCO
- Arrive Early: For domestic flights, 90 minutes before departure; for international, 120 minutes.
- Track Your Flight on the MCO Dashboard: The “Flight Status” screen near each gate updates in real time.
- Bring a Portable Charger: Gates can be far enough to leave Wi‑Fi on for a long time.
- Use the “Southwest” Signage: The terminal has dedicated exit signs to the “Southwest” side for quick navigation.
- Take Advantage of Southwest’s Free Baggage: Saves time re‑dropping carry‑on items at the drop‑off kiosk.
- Check for Terminal Cabins on the Ticket: Occasionally, Southwest opts for a single gate length that might mix gates on Terminal A and B; a quick glance at the boarding pass clarifies this.
Critical References and Sources
Orlando International Airport – Official Site
https://www.mcoairport.com/ – Terminal maps, parking, and real‑time gate info.
Southwest Airlines – Traveler Resources
https://www.southwest.com – Gate assignments and TSA guidelines.
Travel Daily – “Southwest at Orlando International” (2023)
An investigative article on gate patterns and traveler experiences.
FlightAware – Gate History for MCO (2024) – Provides daily gate usage logs.
- FAA Airport Data Base – Terminal definitions and public safety information.
By following the guidance above, you should be able to locate your Southwest gate at Orlando International Airport without hassle and make the most of your travel experience. Enjoy your flight!
