Flying is almost always a stressful experience.
Orlando International Airport
However, if you’re flying out of Orlando International Airport (MCO) anytime soon, there are some NEW rules you can follow to make the experience go much smoother.
Use MCO Reserve
The Orlando International Airport offers the MCO Reserve service, which “allows travelers to reduce stress by planning ahead and reserving a dedicated time slot for their party to go through TSA security screening.”
Flyers scan their MCO Reserve QR code at a specific MCO Reserve line, then move directly to TSA to screen their boarding pass and ID and proceed through the standard TSA security screening, cutting a considerable amount of time from the process on most days.
©Orlando International Airport
Dedicated MCO Reserve terminals are available at Terminals A, B and C. There are only a limited number of slots available each day, however, and travelers may book their time slot up to 7 days in advance. Screening times are available from 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM for flights departing between 6:30 AM and 8:30 PM.
Book Your Parking In Advance
MCO offers the option of booking parking in advance, which can be very beneficial in locking down a spot.
©MCO
You can book on MCO’s website, as well as check the status and price for the airport’s various lots.
©MCO
In addition, travelers can also also pay for certain lots using a SunPass. Simply park as usual, then “pay as you exit by using the specially marked E-PASS/SunPass lanes. The parking fees will be deducted from your E-PASS/SunPass account. No additional fees will be charged.”
Stay Up to Date on Airline Baggage Policies
The airline industry is in a time of transition when it comes to bag policies. For example, Southwest Airlines recently announced a change to its longtime stance on checked bags, confirming that the airline is ending its “Bags Fly Free” policy beginning in May. Meanwhile, competitor Spirit has been cracking down on personal items, forcing travelers to rapidly condense backpacks and bags at their gates.
©Southwest Airlines
No matter what airline you’re flying, it’s imperative to be aware of their policies so you don’t find yourself scrambling at the airport.
Keep Track Online
There are two ways you can cut down on MCO delays before even leaving for the airport! The airport’s website – – flymco.com – – provides official, real-time tracking date for both each terminal’s security checkpoints as well as flight departure status.
Remember Your Real ID
Beginning on May 7th, travelers flying domestically in the U.S. will be required to show a REAL ID-compliant license or accepted alternative in order fly. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the REAL ID law was enacted based on recommendations from the 9/11 Commission that the government “set standards for the issuance of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act established “minimum security standards for state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards and prohibits certain federal agencies from accepting for official purposes licenses and identification cards from states that do not meet these standards.”
Those over the age of 18 who do not present a REAL ID-compliant license or any of those acceptable alternatives beginning on May 7th will “not be permitted through the security checkpoint.” Minors are not required to provide identification when traveling with a companion within the United States.
©Department of Homeland Security
If you’re traveling through MCO soon, be sure to follow these rules to make the experience as painless as possible. Stay tuned to DFB for further travel tips.
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5 Things I Wish I Knew Before Waiting 45 Minutes in Line at the Orlando Airport
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I used to love flying and MCO. Not anymore! You say less stress but it’s a lot more stress for me! All this reservation/online stuff is full of anxiety. Frankly, I never had problems parking or getting picked up and I’ve never spent more than a few minutes in a regular TSA line! After 45 years flying Southwest, I’m done. The airline is ruined. My last time at MCO was a nightmare, mostly thanks to the baggage area and staff. Never again! Since wdw stopped Magical Express, their lack of presence has been palpable, and made the airport much less fun and enjoyable, doing nothing to welcome you to Orlando or Florida. Tampa is much nicer! As a domestic travel agent, I can no longer recommend any airline to fly. All the good ones are gone. Wdw really won’t be that great to visit this (or maybe even next) year but Universal, Seaworld and Busch Gardens in Tampa are! I recommend old-fashioned car trips, especially if you are on the I-95 east coast. Otherwise, the train or even a bus. Consider a longer trip part of an adventurous vacation. Don’t give your hard-earned money to airlines who make travel horrible!