Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest and most well-connected airports in the United States, serving millions of passengers each year. Known for its proximity to world-renowned attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and SeaWorld, MCO is a major hub for both domestic and international travel. For passengers flying with Southwest Airlines, knowing the right terminal information is essential to ensuring a seamless travel experience.

In this detailed blog post, we will dive into everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines’ terminal at MCO, including services, facilities, check-in procedures, amenities, baggage policies, and frequently asked questions. Whether you are departing, arriving, or making a connection, this guide is your go-to resource.

Overview of MCO Terminals

Orlando International Airport is structured with two main terminal buildings – Terminal A and Terminal B – with a third Terminal C introduced recently to support the increasing passenger load. Terminal A and Terminal B are mirror images of each other and host four airside concourses (1, 2, 3, and 4). These terminals are well equipped with dining, shopping, rest areas, and travel services to cater to all kinds of travelers.

Each airline is designated to specific terminals and airside gates depending on their operational logistics, passenger volume, and destinations.

What Terminal is Southwest at MCO?

Southwest Airlines operates out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO). More specifically, its flights arrive and depart from Airside 1 – Gates 100-129. Travelers must check in at the Southwest ticket counters located on the Level 3 of Terminal A before proceeding to the security checkpoint that leads to Airside 1.

In the middle of your planning, if you ever find yourself wondering what terminal is southwest at mco, make sure to refer to this guide or the official airport signage when you arrive.

The terminal provides easy access to all gates, amenities, and ground transportation options. From baggage claim to check-in and boarding, Southwest Airlines ensures a streamlined and efficient experience at this terminal.

Terminal A Facilities for Southwest Airlines Passengers

Southwest passengers traveling through Terminal A at MCO can benefit from a variety of convenient services and facilities:

1. Check-In and Bag Drop

• Southwest Airlines offers self-service kiosks for fast check-in.

• You can also check bags at the full-service counters located on Level 3.

• For early morning flights, it’s advised to arrive at least 2 hours ahead of departure due to high traffic.

2. Security Checkpoint

• The TSA checkpoint leading to Airside 1 is located close to the Southwest counters.

• MCO offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes for expedited processing.

3. Baggage Claim

• Arriving passengers can collect their checked baggage from Level 2 at Terminal A.

• Southwest uses dedicated baggage claim carousels to speed up the process.

4. Dining Options

Airside 1 and the main terminal host numerous food and beverage outlets:

• Starbucks

• Auntie Anne’s

• McDonald’s

• Cask & Larder (a local craft cuisine and beer spot)

• On-the-go options for quick snacks

5. Shopping and Retail

You’ll find duty-free stores, local souvenir shops, newsstands, and tech stores in both the landside and airside areas of the terminal.

6. Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Charging stations are located near most gates and seating areas.

Southwest Airlines Flight Operations at MCO

Southwest Airlines offers a wide array of domestic flights from Orlando International Airport. Popular destinations include:

• Chicago (Midway)

• Denver

• Baltimore

• Dallas (Love Field)

• Nashville

• Las Vegas

• Houston (Hobby)

• Atlanta

• New Orleans

The airline is well-known for its convenient schedules and excellent service, which makes it one of the top choices for travelers flying in and out of MCO.

Transportation to and from Terminal A

If you're flying Southwest, you’ll want to make your way to Terminal A via the following transportation options:

1. Car Rentals

The rental car center is directly accessible from Terminal A. Major providers like Alamo, Hertz, Budget, and Enterprise operate here.

2. Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare pickups are available on Level 2 (Arrivals) outside of Terminal A.

3. Taxi Services

Taxis are readily available curbside. Flat-rate options may be available to popular destinations like Disney or Universal.

4. Public Transit

Lynx Bus routes operate from the Ground Transportation area, providing budget-friendly access to Orlando and surrounding areas.

Tips for Traveling with Southwest at MCO

• Early Check-In: Utilize Southwest’s online check-in or mobile app to secure an earlier boarding group (A, B, or C).

• Bags Fly Free: Southwest allows two free checked bags per passenger – a major perk for families and long-haul travelers.

• Family Boarding: If you're traveling with children 6 or under, you’ll be allowed to board between Group A and B.

• Snacks and Drinks: Complimentary beverages and snacks are available onboard.

• Mobile Boarding Pass: Save time at the airport by using a digital boarding pass via the Southwest app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What terminal is Southwest Airlines at MCO?

Answer: Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal A, specifically Airside 1 (Gates 100-129), at Orlando International Airport.

Q2: Does Southwest have curbside check-in at MCO?

Answer: Yes, curbside check-in is available at Terminal A. Passengers can also use indoor kiosks or go to the full-service counter.

Q3: How early should I arrive for a Southwest flight at MCO?

Answer: It is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international travel.

Q4: Is there Southwest check-in in Terminal B?

Answer: No. All Southwest operations, including check-in and departures, are handled exclusively from Terminal A.

Q5: Can I access TSA PreCheck at Terminal A?

Answer: Yes, TSA PreCheck is available at the Terminal A security checkpoint.

Q6: Where is the baggage claim for Southwest arrivals?

Answer: Baggage claim for Southwest Airlines is located on Level 2 of Terminal A.

Q7: Are there good food options near Southwest gates?

Answer: Yes. Both Airside 1 and the main terminal offer various dining choices including Starbucks, Cask & Larder, and McDonald’s.

Q8: Can I walk between terminals if needed?

Answer: Terminal A and B are connected via a central atrium, so walking between them is possible. Terminal C is in a separate building, accessible via shuttles.

Q9: Does Southwest Airlines fly internationally from MCO?

Answer: Yes, Southwest does offer select international flights to destinations in the Caribbean and Central America from MCO.

Q10: Is there a lost and found for Southwest passengers?

Answer: If you’ve lost an item onboard a Southwest flight, you should report it via the airline’s online lost and found form. For items lost at the terminal, contact MCO’s Lost and Found department.

Final Thoughts

Flying with Southwest Airlines from Orlando International Airport is a smooth and enjoyable experience, especially when you’re well-prepared. Knowing that the airline operates from Terminal A, Airside 1, and understanding the services available can make a significant difference in your travel experience. The terminal is modern, efficient, and packed with amenities to cater to travelers’ needs.

Whether you're traveling for business, leisure, or heading to Orlando’s theme parks, this guide helps ensure you start or end your journey with comfort and ease. For a quick reminder of terminal details, refer back to this blog, or if you're ever uncertain, just ask airport staff — they're always happy to help.

Safe travels!