Southwest Terminal at MCO: A Complete Guide for Travelers

Which Terminal Does Southwest Airlines Use at MCO?

Southwest Airlines operates out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport. Terminal A is one of two main terminals at MCO, with a modern design and an array of amenities to enhance the passenger experience. Within Terminal A, Southwest flights primarily use Airside 2, which houses gates 100-129.

Check-in and Baggage Drop

Passengers flying with Southwest Airlines can check in at the ticketing counters located on the third level of Terminal A. Self-service kiosks are also available for those who prefer a quicker, contactless check-in process. Southwest’s check-in counters open several hours before departure, allowing ample time for passengers to drop off their baggage and proceed to security.

Baggage Allowance

Southwest Airlines offers one of the most generous baggage policies in the industry. Passengers are allowed:

• Two free checked bags (each weighing up to 50 lbs and measuring no more than 62 inches in total dimensions)

• One personal item (such as a purse or laptop bag)

• One carry-on bag

This makes Southwest an attractive choice for travelers who need extra luggage without paying additional fees.

Security and TSA Checkpoints

After checking in, travelers will proceed to the TSA security checkpoint for Terminal A. This area is usually busy, so it’s recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.

MCO also offers TSA PreCheck and Clear lanes for expedited screening, which can save passengers significant time. If you’re a frequent flyer, enrolling in these programs can make the security process much smoother.

Navigating Airside 2

Once past security, passengers flying with Southwest will head to Airside 2, where the airline’s departure gates are located. MCO’s Airside 2 is well-equipped with various facilities, including:

• Dining options: Restaurants, fast-food chains, and coffee shops

• Retail stores: Souvenir shops, travel essentials, and duty-free stores

• Charging stations: Available throughout the seating areas

• Children’s play areas: Great for families traveling with young kids

If you have extra time before your flight, consider grabbing a meal at On the Border Mexican Grill or enjoying a coffee at Starbucks.

Lounges at Southwest Terminal MCO

Unlike some airlines that operate exclusive lounges, Southwest does not have a dedicated lounge at MCO. However, travelers with Priority Pass or other lounge memberships may access certain shared airport lounges. Popular options include:

• The Club MCO (located in Airside 1 and Airside 4)

• USO Lounge (for military personnel and their families)

Since these lounges are not in Airside 2, passengers flying Southwest may need to exit and re-enter security to access them.

Dining and Shopping Options

MCO offers a variety of dining and shopping options to keep travelers entertained before departure. Some of the best choices in Airside 2 include:

• Chick-fil-A – A favorite for quick and delicious chicken sandwiches

• McDonald’s – Reliable fast food for those in a hurry

• Zaza Cuban Coffee – A great spot for coffee and Cuban pastries

• Natalie’s Candy Jar – Perfect for picking up sweets for the flight

For last-minute shopping, passengers can browse stores like Hudson News, Ron Jon Surf Shop, and Magic of Disney.

Arrival at MCO with Southwest Airlines

For those arriving in Orlando with Southwest Airlines, baggage claim is located on Level 2 of Terminal A. Passengers can follow the signs to the appropriate carousel to retrieve their luggage. If you have arranged ground transportation, options include:

• Rental cars (accessible via shuttle or within the airport)

• Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft, and taxis are available at designated pickup zones)

• Public transit (LYNX bus service provides budget-friendly travel options)

Ground Transportation Options

MCO provides a variety of ground transportation options for travelers, including:

• Shuttle Services: Many hotels near MCO offer complimentary shuttle services.

• Taxi and Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and traditional taxis are available.

• Car Rentals: Major rental companies like Hertz, Avis, and Enterprise have desks at the airport.

• Public Transportation: The LYNX bus system offers routes from MCO to key locations in Orlando.

Tips for a Smooth Travel Experience at Southwest Terminal MCO

To make your experience at the Southwest Terminal at MCO as smooth as possible, keep these tips in mind:

1. Arrive Early: MCO is a busy airport, so arriving at least two hours before departure is recommended.

2. Use Mobile Check-in: Save time by checking in via the Southwest Airlines mobile app.

3. Pack Smart: Take advantage of Southwest’s two free checked bags policy.

4. Stay Updated: Check for any flight changes or delays using the MCO airport website or the Southwest Airlines app.

5. Enjoy the Amenities: Take some time to explore the dining and shopping options at Airside 2 before your flight.

Final Thoughts

The Southwest Terminal at MCO provides a comfortable and convenient travel experience, with easy check-in, plenty of dining options, and smooth security processes. Whether you’re flying in or out of Orlando, knowing what to expect at Terminal A and Airside 2 can make your trip stress-free.

For more details, visit Southwest Terminal at MCO to stay updated on flight schedules, services, and travel tips!