Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest and most passenger-friendly airports in the United States, welcoming millions of travelers each year. As the gateway to some of the world’s most beloved tourist destinations—including Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and the Kennedy Space Center—MCO serves as a vital hub for both domestic and international travel.
Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Before exploring the Southwest terminal, it’s important to understand the layout of MCO. The airport is structured in a unique hub-and-spoke model with one main terminal building—divided into Terminal A and Terminal B—and four airside concourses: Airside 1, 2, 3, and 4. In 2022, a brand-new Terminal C was added to accommodate growing passenger numbers and international flights.
Each airside concourse is accessible via an Automated People Mover (APM) from the main terminal, ensuring a smooth connection between check-in, security, and boarding gates.
Where is Southwest Airlines Located at MCO?
Southwest Airlines operates primarily out of Terminal A, Airside 2 at Orlando International Airport. Terminal A is located on the north side of the main terminal complex, with check-in counters on Level 3.
Southwest Check-in:
Terminal A, Level 3
Airside 2 (Gates 100-129)
Once passengers complete check-in and security screening in Terminal A, they board the APM to reach Airside 2, where the majority of Southwest flights depart and arrive.
Airside 2: The Southwest Hub at MCO
Airside 2 is a vibrant, well-equipped terminal that caters almost exclusively to Southwest Airlines. It includes a spacious waiting area, modern gates, family-friendly amenities, and a wide selection of restaurants and shops.
Key Features of Airside 2:
Gates: 100-129
Dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes
Free high-speed Wi-Fi
Ample charging stations
Nursing rooms and family restrooms
ADA-compliant facilities
Since Airside 2 handles a high volume of domestic flights, especially to major hubs like Chicago Midway, Dallas Love Field, Baltimore/Washington, Denver, and Las Vegas, it is designed for efficiency and comfort.
Check-in and Baggage Drop for Southwest Airlines
Southwest passengers can check in at the dedicated counters in Terminal A, Level 3. The airline offers a number of self-service kiosks and staffed counters for:
Boarding passes
Bag tags
Baggage drop-off
Ticketing and customer service
Travel Tip:
Southwest allows two free checked bags per passenger, a major advantage over many competitors. However, remember that bags must not exceed 50 lbs or 62 inches (L+W+H), or extra charges will apply.
Security Screening at Terminal A
After checking in, passengers proceed to the security checkpoint near the entrance to the APM that connects to Airside 2. MCO security lines can become long during peak travel times (especially morning and early evening), so it’s advisable to arrive at least two hours before departure.
TSA PreCheck:
Southwest participates in TSA PreCheck, allowing eligible travelers to enjoy expedited screening, which includes:
No need to remove shoes, belts, or laptops
Shorter lines
Faster processing
Boarding Southwest Flights at MCO
Southwest Airlines uses a unique open seating policy, which means there are no assigned seats. Passengers are boarded based on a boarding group and number (e.g., A23), determined by when they check in.
Boarding Groups:
Group A: EarlyBird Check-In and A-List passengers
Group B: Standard check-in passengers
Group C: Last to board
You can check in 24 hours before your flight or purchase EarlyBird Check-In, which automatically checks you in and usually secures a better boarding position.
Dining and Shopping Options in Airside 2
Whether you’re hungry for a quick bite or want to grab a last-minute souvenir, Airside 2 offers a range of food and retail options.
Dining Options:
Cask & Larder: A Southern-inspired gastropub known for its craft beer and comfort food.
Starbucks: Perfect for a caffeine fix before your flight.
Auntie Anne’s: Soft pretzels and snacks.
Zaza Cuban Coffee: Cuban pastries, sandwiches, and espresso.
Qdoba Mexican Eats: Burritos, tacos, and bowls made fresh.
Shopping:
Hudson News: Magazines, snacks, and travel essentials.
Magic of Disney: Great place for Disney-themed merchandise.
SoundBalance: Electronics, headphones, and gadgets.
Orlando Market: Local souvenirs and snacks.
Wi-Fi, Charging Stations, and Accessibility
MCO offers complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the terminal and Airside 2. Charging stations and power outlets are plentiful near most gates, allowing passengers to recharge devices before boarding.
Accessibility:The terminal and airside are fully ADA-compliant, featuring:
Elevators and ramps
Accessible restrooms
Wheelchair services (arranged via Southwest or at check-in)
Ground Transportation and Parking at MCO
Parking:
MCO provides several parking options for Southwest passengers:
Terminal Top Parking (direct access to Terminal A)
Garage A (close to Terminal A)
Economy Lot A (with shuttle service)
Ground Transportation:
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft pickups are located on Level 2 of Terminal A.
Shuttles: Hotel and resort shuttles pick up from Ground Transportation on Level 1.
Taxis: Available at the curbside on Level 1.
Rental Cars: Most major companies have counters on Level 1 of Terminal A.
Connections and Layovers at MCO with Southwest
Orlando is a popular connecting hub for Southwest, offering seamless transfers between many U.S. cities. Layovers of 1–2 hours are generally sufficient due to the centralized gate layout in Airside 2.
There are no inter-terminal transfers needed for Southwest-to-Southwest connections, since all flights operate from Airside 2. However, if you’re connecting to or from an airline in Terminal C, allow at least 3 hours due to shuttle or train transfers and additional security screening.
Traveling with Kids and Families
Orlando is a family destination, and MCO caters to younger travelers with:
Play areas near the gates in Airside 2
Nursing rooms and family restrooms
Kid-friendly food options like Auntie Anne’s and Zaza
Disney stores for entertainment
Southwest also allows families with children under 6 to board during Family Boarding, which takes place between Groups A and B.
Pet Travel on Southwest at MCO
Southwest Airlines is pet-friendly and allows small vaccinated cats and dogs in carriers that fit under the seat. There is a pet relief area available on the airside and terminal levels, including:
Terminal A, Level 2, near baggage claim
Airside 2, near gate areas
Pet carriers count as a personal item and must meet Southwest's size requirements.
Lost and Found & Customer Service
If you leave something behind on a Southwest flight or within Airside 2:
In-flight items: Contact Southwest Lost and Found via their website.
Terminal items: Contact MCO’s Lost and Found Office, located in the main terminal.
Southwest’s customer service desk is also located in Terminal A, near check-in counters.
Frequent Flyer Benefits at MCO
Southwest’s Rapid Rewards loyalty program members enjoy a number of benefits:
A-List and A-List Preferred boarding priority
Companion Pass eligibility
Points for every dollar spent
Although Southwest does not operate a lounge, Rapid Rewards members still benefit from perks like priority check-in, dedicated security lanes, and free flight changes.
Final Travel Tips for Flying Southwest at MCO
Arrive Early: MCO is busy year-round. Give yourself at least 2 hours for domestic flights.
Use EarlyBird Check-In: This can significantly improve your boarding group and seating choice.
Download the Southwest App: Access boarding passes, flight updates, and gate info.
Pack Smart: Take advantage of Southwest’s free checked bag policy.
Bring Snacks: While there are food options, flights may only offer light snacks.
Stay Updated: Flight delays are not uncommon—monitor your gate information frequently.
Conclusion
Flying Southwest Airlines through Orlando International Airport’s Terminal A and Airside 2 is a convenient and stress-free experience when you know what to expect. With streamlined check-in, a family-friendly environment, and solid dining/shopping options, it’s one of the best terminals for Southwest passengers in the country.
Whether you’re traveling for a magical Disney vacation or heading home from the Sunshine State, the southwest terminal mco ensures that your journey starts or ends on a high note. Thanks to its efficiency, amenities, and friendly service, Southwest’s presence at MCO continues to make Orlando a top destination for travelers across the U.S.
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