If you’re planning to fly with Southwest Airlines in or out of Orlando International Airport (MCO), understanding your terminal details can make a huge difference in how smoothly your travel day goes. Whether you're a local resident heading out on a weekend getaway or a tourist visiting Orlando's world-famous attractions, knowing where to check in, what amenities to expect, and how to navigate the airport is essential.
This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the Southwest terminal at MCO, including terminal location, check-in process, baggage services, lounges, food and retail options, and tips for making the most of your experience.
Overview of Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in Florida and serves as a major gateway for domestic and international travel. Located about 10 miles southeast of downtown Orlando, MCO is a hub for several airlines and handles millions of passengers annually.
MCO is divided into four main terminals (A, B, C, and the newer Terminal C). These terminals are connected via a shuttle and automated people movers (APM). Each terminal is further segmented into Airside gates (Airside 1 through Airside 4).
What Terminal is Southwest at MCO?
Southwest Airlines operates out of Terminal A, Airside 1 at Orlando International Airport.
Terminal Breakdown:
Ticketing and Check-In: Terminal A, Level 3
Security Screening and Gates: Airside 1 (Gates 1–29)
Baggage Claim: Terminal A, Level 2
After checking in at Terminal A, passengers take the Automated People Mover (APM) to reach Airside 1, where the departure gates and amenities are located.
Getting to the Southwest Terminal
When arriving at MCO, follow the signs for Terminal A. Depending on your mode of transportation, here are a few tips:
Driving:
Use Jeff Fuqua Blvd and follow signage for Terminal A.
Parking garages A and B serve Terminal A and offer both short-term and long-term parking.
Rideshare/Taxi:
Passenger drop-off and pick-up for Terminal A is on Level 3 (Departures) and Level 2 (Arrivals) respectively.
Public Transportation:
The Lynx bus system connects various Orlando neighborhoods with MCO.
The Brightline high-speed train, launched in 2023, connects MCO to Miami and other parts of South Florida, with a station accessible from Terminal C (a short shuttle away).
Check-In and Baggage Services
Southwest makes the check-in process seamless, whether you're using their app, self-service kiosks, or staffed counters.
Check-In Options:
Mobile App Check-In: Available 24 hours before departure
Self-Service Kiosks: Located near the entrance of Terminal A
Full-Service Counters: For baggage drop and special requests
Baggage Policy Highlights:
Two free checked bags per ticketed passenger (a Southwest hallmark!)
Oversized or overweight items incur additional charges
Self-tagging kiosks make the process even faster
After checking in, proceed to the security checkpoint to access Airside 1.
Security and TSA PreCheck
Security screening for Southwest passengers takes place at the entrance to Airside 1. Expect:
Multiple screening lanes
Dedicated TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes
Family-friendly lines available during peak travel seasons
To avoid delays, arrive at least 2 hours before your flight, especially during holidays or weekends.
Inside Airside 1: Gates and Waiting Areas
Once you've passed security, you’ll arrive at Airside 1, which exclusively serves Terminal A passengers, including Southwest Airlines.
Gate Layout:
Gates 1–29
Gates are clearly marked and easy to navigate
Plenty of seating, charging stations, and flight monitors throughout the terminal
Dining Options at Southwest’s MCO Terminal
Whether you need a full meal or just a quick snack, Airside 1 has plenty to offer. While not as expansive as some international terminals, you’ll still find satisfying options.
Popular Restaurants and Eateries:
Cask & Larder Public House – Upscale Southern cuisine and craft beer
Starbucks – Classic go-to for coffee and breakfast
On the Border – Mexican food and margaritas
Zaza Cuban Coffee – Cuban coffee and pastries
Villa Italian Kitchen – Pizza and pasta for quick bites
Au Bon Pain – Salads, soups, and sandwiches
Pro Tip:
Most eateries in Airside 1 are open from 5:00 AM until the last departure, so early risers and late flyers are covered.
Retail and Shopping
Need last-minute gifts or forgot your travel essentials? Airside 1 offers several retail shops and newsstands.
Highlights:
Hudson News – Snacks, reading material, and travel gear
Magic of Disney – For those who need a little more Disney magic before leaving town
Sunglass Hut – Premium sunglasses and accessories
XpresSpa – Travel wellness, massages, and grooming services
Wi-Fi and Connectivity
Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout MCO, including Airside 1. Simply connect to “MCO Internet” and follow the login prompts.
There are also plenty of charging ports, USB outlets, and workstations scattered throughout the terminal.
Lounges and Relaxation Areas
Unlike some other major airlines, Southwest does not operate branded lounges. However, MCO offers alternatives:
Lounge Options:
The Club MCO – Located in Terminal A, Airside 1
Access via Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or daily pass (~$50)
Includes complimentary food, beverages, Wi-Fi, showers, and quiet zones
Family Travel and Accessibility
Southwest Airlines and MCO make family and accessible travel easier with the following services:
Family Services:
Children’s play area (Airside 4, but Terminal A has kid-friendly zones too)
Changing stations in restrooms
Priority boarding for families with small children
Accessibility:
Wheelchair assistance available (request at check-in or pre-arranged)
Elevators, ramps, and ADA-compliant restrooms
Visual paging and hearing loops available throughout the terminal
Flight Information and Destinations
Southwest operates a wide range of domestic routes from Orlando, making it a major base for the airline in Florida.
Popular Nonstop Destinations from MCO:
Chicago Midway (MDW)
Denver (DEN)
Baltimore/Washington (BWI)
Nashville (BNA)
Dallas Love Field (DAL)
Houston Hobby (HOU)
Las Vegas (LAS)
Phoenix (PHX)
Atlanta (ATL)
Southwest also operates some seasonal and limited international flights from MCO to locations in the Caribbean and Latin America (e.g., Cancun, Montego Bay).
Lost and Found
If you’ve left an item onboard a Southwest flight:
If the item was lost in the terminal (e.g., security area or gate), contact:
Orlando MCO Lost and Found: +1 (407) 825-2111 or visit the Lost & Found desk in Terminal A
Tips for a Smooth Experience at Southwest Terminal MCO
Check in early – Especially during peak seasons (summer, holidays).
Use mobile boarding passes – It’s faster and eco-friendly.
Bring snacks or a refillable water bottle – While there are food options, it helps to be prepared.
Arrive 2 hours early – Security lines can be long during spring break or summer.
Download the MCO app – Get terminal maps, gate changes, and flight info on the go.
Take advantage of two free checked bags – A rare perk among U.S. airlines!
Future Plans and Upgrades at MCO
Orlando International Airport is constantly evolving. With the recent completion of Terminal C, and the arrival of the Brightline train, passenger flow has improved significantly. While Southwest currently uses Terminal A and Airside 1, the airport is exploring expansions and operational shifts to accommodate future demand.
Stay updated on any terminal changes by checking your flight details on the Southwest Airlines app or the MCO official website.
Final Thoughts
Flying Southwest from Orlando International Airport is a convenient and enjoyable experience, especially with its user-friendly terminal layout, reliable operations, and customer-focused service. Terminal A and Airside 1 provide everything a traveler needs—whether it's food, retail, connectivity, or just a relaxing place to wait for boarding.
With Orlando being a major hub for tourism and family travel, it’s no surprise that Southwest continues to expand its presence at MCO. So whether you’re heading to Disney World or flying home from a Florida vacation, rest assured that the southwest terminal mco has your journey covered from start to finish.