Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in Florida and a key gateway to the world-famous attractions of Central Florida. Whether you're headed to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, or simply connecting through the city, knowing your way around the airport can greatly enhance your travel experience. For passengers flying Southwest Airlines, understanding how the airline operates at MCO can make navigating the airport smoother and more efficient.
Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport is a major hub not just for Florida but for the southeastern United States. MCO handles over 50 million passengers annually and offers nonstop flights to hundreds of destinations across North America, the Caribbean, Europe, and South America.
The airport consists of:
Main Terminal (Landside): Divided into A-side and B-side.
Airside Terminals (Gates): Connected via automated people movers to the main terminal.
Airside 1 (Gates 1–29)
Airside 2 (Gates 100–129)
Airside 3 (Gates 30–59)
Airside 4 (Gates 70–99)
2. What Terminal is Southwest at MCO?
Southwest Airlines operates primarily out of Airside 2 at Orlando International Airport (MCO), which is connected to the B-side of the main terminal.
Quick Summary:
Check-in Area: Terminal B, Level 3
Departure Gates: Gates 100–129 at Airside 2
Baggage Claim: Terminal B, Level 2 (Carousels 20–22)
Transportation: Ground transportation is available on Level 1
Southwest is one of the dominant carriers at MCO and has a significant footprint in terms of both domestic and select international flights.
3. Check-in and Security for Southwest Airlines at MCO
Where to Check In
Southwest’s check-in counters are located on Level 3 of Terminal B, close to the entrances for security screening. Look for Southwest signage near the B-side airline counters.
Self-service kiosks are available for passengers who have checked in online and need to print boarding passes or luggage tags.
Full-service counters are available for baggage drop-off, same-day ticket changes, and other customer service needs.
TSA Security
Once checked in, Southwest passengers proceed to the security checkpoint that leads to Airside 2. The TSA checkpoint can get busy during peak travel hours, especially during holidays and summer, so it’s advisable to arrive at least 2 hours prior to departure.
4. Getting to Airside 2 – Automated People Mover (APM)
After clearing security, passengers board a short Automated People Mover (APM) that transports them from the main terminal to Airside 2, where Southwest’s gates are located.
Travel time: Approximately 1–2 minutes
Frequency: Trains arrive every 3–5 minutes
Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant with elevators and escalators
This system is efficient and helps distribute passengers across the four airsides without congestion.
5. Gates and Departure Areas for Southwest
Southwest primarily uses Gates 100–129 in Airside 2. Here are some key features of this area:
Open seating areas
Charging stations
Restrooms
Nursing rooms
Free Wi-Fi throughout
The layout is straightforward and compact, so walking distances between gates are relatively short. Flight information monitors are updated in real-time, and there are plenty of staff around to help with directions.
6. Dining and Shopping in Airside 2
Airside 2 is well-equipped with a variety of food and beverage options. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee or sitting down for a meal, you’ll find plenty of choices near the Southwest gates.
Popular Dining Options:
Chick-fil-A – Quick service chicken sandwiches and salads
Auntie Anne’s – Soft pretzels and snacks
Starbucks – Hot and cold coffee beverages, pastries
Cask Larder Public House – Sit-down restaurant with Southern cuisine
Camden Food Co. – Sandwiches, wraps, and healthy options
Retail and Essentials:
Hudson News – Newspapers, books, snacks, and travel essentials
Tech on the Go – Electronics and travel gear
Sunglass Hut – Designer sunglasses and accessories
All shops and restaurants are accessible post-security, so you can relax, eat, or shop before boarding your flight.
7. Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation for Southwest at MCO
Where to Claim Baggage
Upon arrival, passengers deboard at Airside 2 and return to the main terminal via the Automated People Mover. Southwest Airlines’ baggage claim is located on Level 2 of Terminal B, typically around Carousels 20–22.
Ground Transportation Options:
Rideshare pick-up (Uber/Lyft): Located on Level 2 (Arrivals) or Level 1 (Ground Transportation) depending on MCO policy
Rental Cars: On-site rental car desks on Level 1 of Terminal B
Shuttle Services: Shared and private shuttle options to Disney, Universal, and area hotels
Public Transit: Lynx buses depart from the A-side of the terminal
Taxi Services: Designated taxi stands on Level 1
8. Southwest Airlines Lounges at MCO?
Southwest Airlines does not operate any lounges at MCO or at any airport in its network. The airline focuses on low-cost travel and quick turnarounds.
However, travelers can still relax in the terminal thanks to plenty of seating areas, cafes, and charging stations. If you’re looking for a lounge experience, you might consider purchasing a day pass to The Club MCO, which is accessible to passengers of any airline.
Location: Terminal B, near Gates 91 and 93 (Airside 4) – not near Southwest gates
Amenities: Showers, snacks, beverages, workstations, Wi-Fi
Price: Approximately $50 for a day pass
9. Flight Routes and Destinations from MCO
Southwest Airlines offers a robust schedule from Orlando International Airport, serving destinations across the U.S. and the Caribbean.
Popular Domestic Routes:
New York (LGA, JFK)
Chicago (MDW)
Dallas (DAL)
Baltimore (BWI)
Denver (DEN)
Houston (HOU)
Las Vegas (LAS)
Los Angeles (LAX)
International Routes:
Southwest operates limited international flights out of MCO to select destinations in:
Mexico
The Bahamas
Central America (e.g., Costa Rica)
Note: International flights depart from Airside 1, not Airside 2. Always double-check your gate if flying internationally.
10. Tips for Flying Southwest at MCO
Here are a few helpful tips to make your journey smoother:
1. Check-In Early
Southwest operates on an open seating policy, meaning you pick your seat once you’re onboard. The earlier you check in (or purchase EarlyBird Check-In), the better your boarding position.
2. Arrive Early
With MCO’s large size and potential crowds, especially during holiday seasons or school breaks, arrive 2–2.5 hours before your flight, even for domestic departures.
3. Family Travel Perks
Southwest is known for being family-friendly. If you're traveling with small children, take advantage of Family Boarding, which happens between Boarding Groups A and B.
4. Use the MCO App
Download the official Orlando MCO App to view real-time security wait times, terminal maps, and flight updates.
5. Look for Charging Stations
Seats with built-in USB ports are available in most gate areas. For more secure charging, bring your own power bank.
11. Accessibility and Special Assistance
Orlando International Airport and Southwest Airlines are both committed to providing services for travelers with disabilities.
Wheelchair service is available through Southwest and should be requested in advance or at check-in.
Visual and auditory aids are available throughout the terminal.
Elevators and accessible restrooms are located throughout Airside 2 and Terminal B.
Companion care restrooms and service animal relief areas are also present.
12. Southwest’s Customer Service at MCO
In case of delays, cancellations, or general inquiries, Southwest has a Customer Service desk located near the check-in counters in Terminal B, as well as gate agents throughout Airside 2. Their representatives are known for friendly, prompt service and can assist with:
Flight changes
Baggage concerns
Rebooking
Special assistance
Conclusion
Flying with Southwest Airlines out of Orlando International Airport is a breeze once you know what to expect. From efficient check-in processes at Terminal B to a comfortable and accessible gate area at Airside 2, Southwest offers travelers a hassle-free experience for both domestic and international journeys.
While there’s no luxury lounge, the airline makes up for it with consistent service, generous baggage policies, and an airport terminal full of modern amenities and dining options. Whether you're flying to another Florida city or catching a long-haul connection, the southwest terminal mco provides a solid foundation for your travels.
