Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest and most traveler-friendly airports in the United States, welcoming millions of passengers annually. Among the leading airlines operating from MCO is Southwest Airlines, a favorite among budget-conscious travelers and families flying to Central Florida’s world-renowned theme parks and attractions.
Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Before diving into Southwest Airlines specifically, it’s helpful to understand the layout of Orlando International Airport.
MCO features a unique layout consisting of:
A central landside terminal (divided into Terminals A and B)
Four airside concourses (Gates 1–129) connected by automated people movers (trains)
Terminal C, a new standalone terminal that opened in 2022, dedicated primarily to international and select domestic carriers.
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively from Terminal A and utilizes Airside 1 (Gates 1–29).
What Terminal is Southwest at MCO?
Southwest Airlines uses Terminal A at MCO, specifically Airside 1. Here's how that breaks down:
Check-In and Ticketing: Level 3, Terminal A
Gates Used: Airside 1 – Gates 1-29
Baggage Claim: Level 2, Terminal A
After checking in at the landside Terminal A, passengers board the automated people mover (APM) to reach Airside 1, where Southwest’s departure gates are located.
Step-by-Step Guide: Departing on Southwest from MCO
1. Arriving at the Airport
When you arrive at MCO for a Southwest flight, follow the signs to Terminal A. You can be dropped off curbside on Level 3 for check-in and security.
If you're parking at the airport, the A-side garages and economy lots are closest to Southwest’s terminal.
2. Check-In and Bag Drop
Southwest has a large check-in area on Level 3 of Terminal A, with multiple kiosks and staffed counters. Bag drop and self-tagging are available, and Southwest also supports mobile check-in 24 hours in advance.
Tip: If you’re traveling with checked bags, be sure to allow extra time during peak travel seasons, especially summer and holidays.
3. Security Screening
After check-in, head to the TSA checkpoint leading to Airside 1. Security wait times can vary, but generally move quickly thanks to multiple lanes. MCO also supports:
TSA PreCheck
CLEAR (for expedited security)
4. Airside 1 – Gate Area for Southwest
Once you board the tram to Airside 1, you’ll arrive at the gate area exclusively serving Southwest Airlines and some international flights operated by other carriers.
Southwest gates are clearly marked and easy to navigate. Digital displays show departure information and boarding times.
Tip: Southwest does not assign seats, so early check-in or EarlyBird Check-In can help secure your preferred boarding group.
Amenities and Services at Airside 1
Airside 1 offers a comfortable and modern passenger experience. While it may not have the ultra-luxury feel of newer terminals, it provides ample dining, shopping, and relaxation options.
1. Dining Options
Southwest’s terminal at MCO features a good variety of food and beverage choices. Some popular spots include:
Zaza Cuban Café – Fresh Cuban coffee and pastries
On the Border – Tex-Mex favorites
Panda Express – Fast-casual Chinese cuisine
McDonald’s – A family favorite for quick bites
Camden Food Co. – Healthy snacks and sandwiches
Le Grand Comptoir Wine Bar – A nice place to unwind before your flight
2. Shops and Retail
If you want to pick up last-minute souvenirs or travel essentials, check out:
InMotion Entertainment – Electronics and headphones
Hudson News – Magazines, snacks, and travel accessories
Magic of Disney Store – For those who want a little more magic before or after the parks
3. Other Amenities
Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminal
Family Restrooms
Nursing Rooms
Charging Stations: Plentiful near most gates
Pet Relief Areas: Available pre-security near Terminal A entrances
Arriving at MCO on a Southwest Flight
1. Disembarking and Baggage Claim
Once your flight lands at Airside 1, take the automated people mover to Terminal A.
Baggage claim for Southwest flights is located on Level 2 of Terminal A. Overhead monitors and airport staff will direct you to the correct carousel.
2. Ground Transportation
Ground transportation options are located on Level 1 of Terminal A. You’ll find:
Rideshare pick-up zones (Uber/Lyft)
Shuttles to area hotels and theme parks
Rental Car Counters
Taxis and public transportation
If you rented a car, head to Level 1 (Ground Transportation A-side) to find the rental car desks.
Parking Options for Southwest Travelers at MCO
MCO offers various parking options near Terminal A:
1. Terminal Top Parking Garage
Directly above the terminal (A-side)
Covered parking, just steps to Southwest check-in
Rates: Around $19/day
2. Parking Garage A
Located adjacent to Terminal A
Connected by walkways and elevators
Rates: Approximately $19/day
3. Economy Parking Lots
Budget-friendly long-term parking
Free shuttle service to Terminal A
Rates: As low as $10/day
Southwest Flight Destinations from MCO
Southwest Airlines offers an extensive list of nonstop destinations from Orlando, covering both domestic and limited international routes. Popular destinations include:
Chicago (MDW)
Nashville (BNA)
Baltimore (BWI)
Dallas (DAL)
Denver (DEN)
Las Vegas (LAS)
Phoenix (PHX)
San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
Southwest is a strong option for leisure and business travelers alike due to its flexible policies, competitive fares, and reliable service.
Tips for Traveling Southwest Through MCO
Here are some practical tips to help you navigate Southwest’s terminal at MCO like a pro:
1. Arrive Early During Peak Season
MCO can get crowded during holidays and spring break. Arrive 2 to 3 hours before your flight, especially if you’re checking bags or traveling with kids.
2. Use Mobile Check-In
To improve your boarding position, check in online 24 hours before your flight using the Southwest app.
3. Pack Snacks for Kids
While the gate area has food, it’s often busy. Packing snacks can save time and prevent hunger-induced meltdowns.
4. Use the Disney or Universal Shuttles
If you’re heading straight to the theme parks, many hotels and resorts offer complimentary shuttles from the airport.
5. Explore the Terminal if You Arrive Early
Airside 1 is clean and relatively spacious. If you have time, grab a coffee, browse the Disney store, or relax at a gate with a charging station.
Southwest’s Reputation at MCO
Southwest Airlines has generally received positive reviews for its operations at MCO. Passengers appreciate:
On-time performance
Helpful staff
Smooth baggage handling
Easy-to-navigate gate areas
Because Orlando is such a popular vacation destination, Southwest ensures frequent service and reliable support for both families and business travelers.
Future Developments and Terminal C
Although Southwest does not currently operate from the newly opened Terminal C, travelers should be aware of the airport’s ongoing expansion projects.
Terminal C, which caters to international airlines and features state-of-the-art technology, may influence Southwest’s operations in the future if demand or airline strategy changes. But for now, Southwest remains firmly based in Terminal A / Airside 1.
Conclusion
If you're flying Southwest Airlines to or from Orlando International Airport, you’ll be using Terminal A and Airside 1—a busy, convenient, and family-friendly terminal with ample amenities.
With efficient check-in, an easy-to-navigate gate area, and a variety of dining and retail choices, Southwest’s terminal at MCO helps set the tone for a smooth travel experience—whether you're heading to Disney World, Universal Studios, or flying home after a magical vacation.
By understanding the layout and planning your time wisely, you can make the most of your journey through southwest terminal mco.
