Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers each year. Among the many airlines operating at MCO, Southwest Airlines plays a significant role in connecting travelers to destinations across the country. If you’re flying with Southwest Airlines from Orlando, it’s essential to know about the facilities, services, and overall experience at its designated terminal. In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the southwest terminal mco, including its location, check-in process, amenities, and travel tips.
Southwest Airlines Terminal at MCO: Terminal Overview
Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal A, Airside 2 at Orlando International Airport. MCO is divided into two main terminal complexes: Terminal A and Terminal B, each featuring multiple airsides. Southwest’s operations are concentrated in Terminal A, which houses many domestic airlines.
The Southwest Airlines check-in counters are conveniently located on Level 3 of Terminal A, where passengers can complete their baggage drop and obtain boarding passes before proceeding to security screening and their departure gates.
Airside 2: Gates & Layout
Once you clear security, you will enter Airside 2, which contains Gates 100-129—exclusively used by Southwest Airlines and a few other carriers. The airside area is well-equipped with seating, dining options, and retail stores to enhance the passenger experience.
Check-In and Security Process for Southwest Airlines at MCO
Check-In Options
Passengers flying Southwest from MCO have several check-in options, including:
Online Check-In: Available 24 hours before departure on Southwest’s website or mobile app.
Self-Service Kiosks: Located in the terminal for quick check-in and boarding pass printing.
Counter Check-In: Assisted check-in for passengers with baggage or special service needs.
Curbside Check-In: Offered by Southwest Airlines for added convenience.
TSA Security Screening
After check-in, passengers must go through TSA security screening. The security checkpoint in Terminal A is known for efficiency, but during peak travel times, expect longer wait times.
For a faster experience, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck or Clear, both of which are available at MCO.
Amenities and Services at Southwest Terminal MCO
Dining Options
Travelers at Airside 2 have a variety of food options, ranging from fast food to sit-down dining. Some popular choices include:
McDonald’s – Quick-service fast food.
Outback Steakhouse – A full-service restaurant with a variety of meals.
Starbucks – Ideal for coffee and light snacks before your flight.
Cibo Express Gourmet Market – Offers grab-and-go meals and beverages.
Shopping & Retail
MCO’s Southwest terminal features various retail shops, including:
Hudson News – For travel essentials, snacks, and reading material.
Magic of Disney – A perfect stop for last-minute Disney souvenirs.
Universal Orlando Store – Get souvenirs from Universal Studios before your flight.
Wi-Fi & Charging Stations
Orlando International Airport provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Additionally, you’ll find multiple charging stations at the gates to keep your devices powered.
Lounges & Relaxation Areas
While Southwest does not operate a dedicated lounge at MCO, there are comfortable seating areas and relaxation zones throughout Airside 2. If you have Priority Pass, you can access the Club MCO Lounge in Airside 1 or Airside 4.
Southwest Airlines Baggage Policy at MCO
One of the benefits of flying Southwest Airlines is its generous baggage policy:
Two free checked bags per passenger (weight limit: 50 lbs per bag).
One carry-on bag and one personal item allowed in the cabin.
Oversized and overweight bags incur additional fees.
For special baggage such as sports equipment, musical instruments, or pet travel, it’s recommended to check Southwest’s website for specific policies.
Ground Transportation and Parking at MCO
Transportation Options
There are multiple ways to get to and from Southwest terminal MCO:
Rental Cars: Available at the rental car center in Terminal A.
Rideshare Services (Uber & Lyft): Pickup zones are clearly marked outside the terminal.
Taxis & Shuttles: Available on Level 1 of Terminal A.
Public Transportation: Lynx buses connect MCO to downtown Orlando and surrounding areas.
Parking Near Southwest Airlines Terminal
MCO offers several parking options for Southwest Airlines passengers:
Terminal Parking Garages A & B: Closest to the terminal, with direct access.
Economy Parking: More affordable but requires a shuttle ride to the terminal.
Valet Parking: Available for passengers who prefer premium service.
Flight Routes & Destinations from MCO
Southwest Airlines offers numerous domestic and international flights from MCO. Some of the most popular destinations include:
Domestic Routes: Chicago (MDW), Baltimore (BWI), Las Vegas (LAS), Denver (DEN), Houston (HOU), Nashville (BNA), and Dallas (DAL).
International Routes: Southwest operates flights to the Caribbean and Latin America, including Cancún (CUN), Montego Bay (MBJ), and San Juan (SJU).
Tips for a Smooth Experience at Southwest Terminal MCO
Arrive Early – For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure; for international flights, 3 hours is recommended.
Use the Southwest Mobile App – Check your flight status, get mobile boarding passes, and track baggage.
Join Southwest Rapid Rewards – Earn points and enjoy benefits like priority boarding.
Plan Your Dining & Shopping – Use the MCO airport website to check restaurant and store hours.
Check for Weather Delays – Orlando weather can sometimes cause delays, so check the forecast before heading to the airport.
Final Thoughts
Flying Southwest Airlines from Orlando International Airport is a convenient and enjoyable experience thanks to its well-equipped Terminal A, Airside 2. Whether you're a frequent traveler or visiting Orlando for the first time, knowing the ins and outs of the Southwest terminal MCO will ensure a stress-free journey. With numerous amenities, great food options, and efficient check-in procedures, you can focus on enjoying your trip from the moment you arrive at the airport.
For more updates and travel guides on Southwest Airlines and other major carriers, stay tuned to our blog!
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