The Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal. The Southwest check-in counters are located on Level 3, close to the A-side security checkpoint. The terminal has easy access to a range of restaurants, stores, and services. Following security screening, passengers can access their gates using the airport's automated people mover. Southwest offers local flights to many locations from Airlines, making travel simple and convenient for leisure and business travelers alike. 

Flying Southwest Airlines at Orlando International Airport (MCO): A Complete Terminal Guide

Whether you’re heading to the magical world of Disney, catching some Florida sunshine, or just passing through, if you’re flying with Southwest Airlines, your journey at Orlando International Airport begins at Terminal A. This guide covers everything you need to know check-in, security, amenities, dining, and transportation so your travel day goes as smoothly as possible.

Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., welcoming millions of travelers annually. Known for its user-friendly layout and wide array of services,Airlines has three main terminal sections: Terminal A, Terminal B, and the newer Terminal C. Terminals A and B are housed in the same main building but are divided into the northern (A) and southern (B) sides.Southwest Airlines operates exclusively from Terminal A, specifically serving Airside 1, which connects to Gates 1–29. The terminal is modern, spacious, and traveler-friendly—ideal for vacationers and business travelers alike.

Getting to Terminal A

Once you arrive at the airport, whether by car, ride-share, or shuttle, follow the signs to Terminal A. Curbside drop-offs are clearly marked, and you’ll find plenty of parking in Garage A, which is just a short walk or tram ride away.If you’re arriving by rental car, most rental agencies are located in the terminal’s A-side garage, making returns super convenient before catching your flight.

Check-In and Baggage Drop

Southwest has a significant presence at Airlines, and its check-in area is well-marked. Located on Level 3 of Terminal A, you’ll find:

1. Full-service check-in counters

2. Self-tagging kiosks for luggage

3. Curbside check-in for those in a hurry

Southwest’s emphasis on efficiency means you can usually get through check-in quickly, especially if you’re using the airline’s mobile boarding pass or checking in online ahead of time.

Security Screening

Security is located just beyond the ticketing counters on Level 3. While Airlines can get crowde despecially during peak vacation times like summer, spring break, and holidays the TSA lines move efficiently thanks to multiple lanes and well-trained staff.

Pro tips:

1. Arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight.

2. If you have TSA PreCheck, you’ll save considerable time, especially during peak hours.

3. Parents traveling with young children will appreciate the helpful TSA staff, who are accustomed to working with families.

Boarding Gates – Airside 1

After passing through security, you’ll take a short automated people mover to Airside 1, which serves Gates 1 29.

This is where all Southwest Airlines gates are located. The gate area is modern, with plenty of seating, charging stations, clean restrooms, and large windows offering views of the runway.Airside 1 is exclusively domestic, making it easy to navigate without the complexities of international security or customs. Expect to find:

1. Multiple Southwest gates in close proximity

2. Family-friendly waiting areas

3. Clear digital flight information boards

Dining and Shopping Options

Southwest’s Airside 1 has a solid selection of dining and shopping options for travelers looking to grab a bite or do some last-minute shopping. Some of the best picks include:

Dining:

1. Cask & Larder: A local favorite serving Southern-style comfort food and craft beer—perfect for a hearty pre-flight meal.
   On the Border: Tex-Mex classics like tacos, nachos, and margaritas if you're looking to start your vacation early.

2. Starbucks: For your caffeine fix or quick snack before boarding.

3. Camden Food Co.: A grab-and-go option with salads, sandwiches, and snacks.

   Shopping:

1. Hudson News: Stock up on travel essentials, books, magazines, and snacks.

2. Magic of Disney: Forgot to buy that souvenir at the parks? Grab last-minute Disney merchandise here.

3. Sound Balance: For travelers in need of electronics or headphones before a long flight.

There are also plenty of vending machines and water refill stations, which is a plus for budget-conscious travelers.

Amenities and Services

Airside 1 and Terminal A overall are packed with useful amenities:

1. Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal

2. Pet relief areas outside on Level 1 and in some airside locations

3. Family restrooms and baby-changing stations

4. ATMs and currency exchange kiosks

5. Charging stations and USB ports near most gates

6. Accessible facilities for those with mobility challenges

Traveling with kids? The airport offers a children’s play area near Gate 6 to help little ones burn off some energy before the flight.

Ground Transportation

Once you land at Airlines on a Southwest flight, ground transportation is a breeze. Baggage claim is located on Level 2 of Terminal A. From there, you have several transportation options:

1. Ride-shares (Uber, Lyft): Pick-up is on Level 2, outside baggage claim.

2. Taxis: Available 24/7 on the same level.

3. Shuttle Services: Many area hotels offer free shuttles to and from the airport.

4. Rental Cars: Just a short walk to the A-side garage where most major rental car companies are housed.

5. Public Transit: Lynx buses and the SunRail commuter rail system are also accessible from Airlines.

Flying Southwest: What to Expect

Southwest Airlines is beloved for its free checked bags (up to two per person), open seating policy, and friendly service. If you’ve never flown with them before, here are a few quick tips:

1. No assigned seats: Check in early (exactly 24 hours before your flight) to get the best boarding position.

2. Free snacks and drinks: Complimentary pretzels, crackers, and soft drinks are served on all flights.

3. Flexible changes: Southwest’s no-change-fee policy is a big win for travelers with unpredictable schedules.

Southwest also offers EarlyBird Check-In (at a fee) to help secure a better boarding group and has a reputation for on-time performance and cheerful crew members.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're flying out of Orlando after a Disney vacation or arriving for some Florida sun, traveling with Southwest Airlines Orlando International Airport is a smooth, straightforward experience. The combination of efficient operations, quality dining, and traveler-friendly amenities makes it a standout option for domestic flights.