Orlando Airport Terminals
Introduction and Historical Background
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary airport serving Central Florida and one of the busiest airports in the United States. It is a major gateway for both domestic and international travelers, particularly those visiting Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and the broader Orlando metropolitan area.
The airport’s origins date back to 1942, when the site operated as Pinecastle Army Airfield. It later became McCoy Air Force Base, from which the airport code “MCO” is derived. After the base closed in 1975, the facility was converted into a civilian airport. Commercial operations expanded rapidly throughout the 1980s and 1990s, driven by tourism growth. In September 2022, the opening of Terminal C marked a new era of modernization and international expansion.
MCO’s design is unique — ticketing and security are separated from the boarding gates, which are located in satellite concourses connected by automated trains.
North Terminal Complex (Main Terminal)
The North Terminal Complex is the original and central structure of the airport. It is divided into Terminal A and Terminal B, which share the same central building but serve different airline groups and airsides.
Layout and Levels (North Terminal)
- Level 1: Ground transportation and hotel shuttles
- Level 2: Baggage claim and rental car counters
- Level 3: Ticketing, check-in, and security checkpoints
- Level 4: Hotel access (Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport)
Security screening is divided into:
- West Hall: Access to Airsides 1 and 3
- East Atrium: Access to Airsides 2 and 4
After security, passengers board Automated People Movers (APM) to reach their respective airside concourses.
Allow extra time if you are unfamiliar with the airport — you must take a train after security to reach your gate.
Terminal A (North Side)
Terminal A serves Airsides 1 and 2:
- Airside 1: Gates 1–29
- Airside 2: Gates 100–129
This terminal primarily handles domestic flights, including a large number of departures operated by Southwest Airlines, the airport’s largest carrier.
Facilities include dining areas, retail shops, family rest zones, and airline lounges (limited compared to larger hub airports).
Southwest passengers should check monitors carefully, as gate assignments can occasionally change between Airside 1 and 2.
Terminal B (South Side of North Complex)
Terminal B connects to:
- Airside 3: Gates 30–59
- Airside 4: Gates 70–99
Airside 4 is the main international arrivals facility within the North Terminal Complex and includes customs and border protection processing.
Terminal B accommodates a mix of domestic and international carriers.
International arrivals at Airside 4 may experience longer processing times during peak afternoon hours.
South Terminal Complex – Terminal C
Opened in September 2022, Terminal C represents MCO’s newest and most technologically advanced facility. It was designed to increase capacity and enhance the international passenger experience.
- Gates: C230–C248
- Focus: International and select domestic long-haul flights
- Advanced biometric screening technology
- Bright, modern architecture with floor-to-ceiling windows
Terminal C is also connected to the Brightline high-speed rail station, providing direct rail service to South Florida.
If flying from Terminal C, verify your terminal in advance — it is not physically connected airside to Terminals A or B.
Inter-Terminal Transportation
- Automated People Movers operate free of charge.
- Travel time: approximately 1–3 minutes depending on airside.
- APM stations are located on Level 3 after security in the North Terminal.
Terminal C operates independently and requires landside transfer if connecting between complexes.