Orlando Airport – Everything for Your Arrival

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Written By Carlos Braga

The Orlando Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest in the US. In addition, it has several companies in its terminals, around 50 of them.

That way, it's a huge venue, with both international and domestic flights.

It is very modern and has a great infrastructure, with several Shops, a hotel and food courts. So, to find out more, follow this complete guide to the airport. 

How is the airport in Orlando

It is less than 10 km from the city center. In fact, it is one of the busiest terminals in the state of Florida. In fact, it is the 12th most visited in the entire US. 

In 1942, it was designed for use by the US military. Soon after, in the 1960s, some flights for civilians began to appear.

With the intense arrival of tourists to the city, in 1978, the terminal expanded its activities. Thus, international flights began. In that year alone, 5 million people circulated in that location.

In 2015, the passenger estimate reached 40 million. That is, about 110 thousand travelers per day. 

Orlando Airport currently

Today, flights from approximately 50 airlines arrive. Among them, three are Brazilian:

- Blue
– goal
– Tam

The terminal operates both international and domestic flights. Including Europe, America and the Middle East. 

who goes to Orlando you have the opportunity to visit fantastic places, such as Disney and the various theme parks:

Magic Kingdom
– Epcot
Hollywood Studios
Animal kingdom

There are water parks and a huge entertainment area, Downtown Disney. However, that's not all. Yeah, you can also visit Universal and Sea World.

Arrival at Orlando airport

This can be done through direct flights or with connections. For example, Gol connects in the Dominican Republic. 

Still on the plane, passengers receive a Customs document to fill out. By the way, there are some in Portuguese, just ask the crew. There are some questions, such as:

– What you are taking: fruit, meat, animals;
– In cases of products to be marketed, they must be declared;
– Families with more than $10,000 in cash must also indicate the amount.

When passengers arrive at the airport, they all head to the same location. That is, for the area of Immigration.

Arrival at Orlando MCO Airport
Arrival at Orlando MCO Airport

Orlando Airport Passport Control

That's when the responsible agent will check your passport. As well as checking your fingerprints, taking your picture and asking a few questions.

So, everything being right, your entry into the US is released.

Follow all directions provided so as not to be warned. In addition, many employees at this terminal speak Spanish and even Portuguese. 

When you are seen, give your passport and Customs form. You will then have to answer questions such as:

– How many days do you intend to stay in the country;
– The reason for this trip;
– Where you will be staying;
– Amount of cash you are carrying.

It is important to answer everything clearly and objectively.

So, with everything right, your passport is stamped. From there, you must proceed to the baggage claim area. 

Collecting Baggage at Orlando Airport

In this terminal, your conveyor belt will be according to your flight number.

So, when you locate it, just wait for the bags. 

It is worth mentioning that this space is considered a security sector.

Thus, photographic and video recordings are prohibited. Therefore, do not use any electronic device in this area.

If you have a lot of luggage, you are allowed to use a trolley free of charge.

monorail-airport-orlando-mco
monorail-airport-orlando-mco

However, it should only accompany you on short journeys.

Then go to customs.

After that, it's time to take a monorail towards the main terminal building.

It is not the disney monorail! hahahahaha

The Orlando Airport Train

The entire journey takes just one minute. In addition, the monorail is one-way. That is, there is no way to go wrong. 

If you have your luggage in hand, just go to the rental counters. Yeah, that's where the public and Disney buses are located. As well as taxis and, if you prefer, cars for rent.

This last option is the most suitable for those traveling as a family. Therefore, to hire the service, you will need to present:

- Driver's license;
- Passport;
– International credit card.    

At the Orlando airport there are two terminals, “A” and “B” and both have rental companies and luggage carousels.

It is possible to rent a luggage trolley for US$5.00 and the machine accepts cash or credit cards. 

What's inside the terminal

As it is a very large place, it is all signposted. Therefore, even with the information in English, it is possible to understand well.

There are also several types of shops at the airport, such as:

– Disney;
– Universal;
- Hello Kitty;
– Sea World;
– Kennedy Space Center (NASA);
– Harley Davidson.

magic-of-disney-store-orlando-international-airport-mco
Magic of Disney Store at Orlando International Airport – MCO

There are also some bookstores, five types of restaurants and several fast-food chains. For example, McDonalds and Chick-Fil-A. 

Read too  Orlando Universal Resort: places for those traveling alone

WI-FI is free in all sectors of the Orlando airport. In addition, it has a hotel, the Hyatt Regency.

In this way, it is very practical for those who have an early flight and do not want to be late.

The infrastructure 

The airport has a modern design with two cube-shaped terminals. Without a doubt, it draws the attention of tourists arriving there for the first time.

It also offers a wide variety of services to passengers, such as:

– Currency exchange;
– postal services;
- ATMs;
- VIP room;
– Charging stations;
– Spa;
– Chapel;
– Public telephones;
– Kiosk with internet and free Wi-Fi access;
– Shops for souvenirs, clothes, accessories, perfumes, books and electronics

At the Orlando airport accessibility is very present, with the aim of providing greater facilities for people with reduced mobility.

As well as those with disabilities. So, the place has:

– Ramps;
– Elevators;
– Mobile walkways;
- Escalator;
– Vehicles for transporting people;
– Adapted telephones and restrooms;
– Reserved parking spaces;
– Hygiene areas for service animals.

Orlando International Airport
Orlando International Airport

How to leave the airport

The means of transport options are many. For example, car rental, buses, taxis and shuttles (a type of carrier). 

Disney guests can use Disney's Magical Express Service. By the way, it's free. So, find out below which alternative to choose and which best fits in your pocket.

See how to rent a car at Orlando airport

It is one of the most practical options. Mainly because tourist attractions are not so close to each other. You can even do this within the terminal itself. 

And of course, we always recommend that your car rental be done on a trusted website. For those who like to solve everything online, we recommend the rent cars because in addition to being extremely reliable, you can compare prices between major rental companies and make the best car reservation for you and your group!

But if you are one of those people who prefer a personalized service, we recommend that you make your quote with our partner rental agency clicking here!

Secure your car reservation for Orlando here at the best price!

Among the rental companies available there are Avis, Hertz and Alamo. In this way, it is much simpler and quieter to move around the city. 

When returning, something needs to be highlighted. Yeah, it takes place in a different sector of the boarding area. So, follow the airport signs carefully. 

Another tip is to rent a car before the trip. Because that way, you pay in reais and can divide it into several installments. As well as saving on the IOF charged by the card.

Find out how to order taxis, uber or shuttles at the Orlando airport

Taxis are located on the first floor of the terminal. Thus, the main advantages of it is that the use is particular. By the way, the payment is according to the journey that will be made.

In the USA, there is a custom of giving tip to the taxi driver. In fact, the price is 10 to 15% of the race value.

A shuttle is like a van. Therefore, it is a type of transport shared with other people. That is, the payment is for each passenger and according to the destination.

It is well used by Americans and is generally more affordable. So, there are companies available in this segment at the airport itself.

And of course, like virtually anywhere in the world, you can call a uber or a private transport!

How the Disney Bus from Orlando Airport Works

It provides this type of service for its guests arriving through this terminal.

Thus, to use it, you need to make a reservation via phone or online. Indeed, you will need to inform the time of arrival and departure. 

An important detail is that the bags go in a separate vehicle from the passengers. Therefore, you will only have your luggage a few hours later. If you need something inside, it is recommended to take it after landing at the airport.

Learn to board at the Orlando terminal

At some point, every trip ends and it's time to go home. So, suppose you are returning to the airport on the Disney bus (the Disney Magical Express).

The driver will ask which airline you are on. It will then drop you off in front of the check-in counter. 

If you have rented a car in Orlando airport, first you need to return it.

So, after that, go up to the third floor. In order to check in the luggage and get the boarding pass.

It will indicate the gate number to board. Then go to him and wait in line.

Thus, an agent will be there to confirm your departure from American territory. 

Just present your passport and nothing else. The next step is to go through security.

Aerial view of Orlando Airport - MCO
Aerial view of Orlando Airport – MCO

International airport security measures

Several items are prohibited. For example, liquids of more than 100ml. In addition, lighters, piercing objects, weapons, explosives, among others. That way, when you arrive at the conveyor belt, place your belongings on the inspection tray, such as:

– Bags;
– Bags;
- Belts;
- Bracelets;
- Clocks;
Coins.

At the Orlando airport, Smaller electronics can stay inside luggage.

In other words, cell phones and tablets. On the other hand, notebook and video games should be taken out for x-ray.

Another detail: shoes must also be placed on the tray.

With the exception of children under 12 years old.

Read too  CVS Orlando - Pharmacy and Convenience in Orlando

Another procedure is also done, called the ETD test.

In order to verify whether the passengers manipulated explosives and other dangerous substances.

It is quick, painless and randomly performed.

Thus, a handkerchief is passed in the hands of the people and then it is inserted into an equipment for analysis. So if nothing is found, you are released.

Orlando airport body scanner

American security measures are strict. Also, it is worth mentioning that it is not recommended to arrive at the terminal at the last minute. Yeah, all these procedures take a little time.

Done all of them, just get the luggage. Then hop on the monorail to your departure gate.

Airport Video

When we participated in the Disney Influencers of Magic program, we filmed a little bit of the arrival at the Orlando airport and took Disney's Magical Express.

Check out the video below to see how easy it is!

Distance from the terminal to the most popular sights

There are three regions of great interest to tourists in Orlando.

Soon, they are: Downtown Orlando, International Drive and Walt Disney World.

From the airport, the path to these locations is 22 km, 20 km and 30 km.

So, get to know a little about these places and what are the best attractions.

Experience Downtown Orlando from the Orlando Airport

It is located right in the center of the city. Thus, it is full of museums, beautiful natural landscapes and a bustling nightlife. In fact, the main highlights are:

– Orlando Science Center, is a very interactive museum;
– Museum of Art, huge and portrays American history well;
– Colonial Lanes, a unique bar with a bowling alley;
– Orange County Regional History Center, a place that talks about the formation of the city;
– Harry P.Leu Gardens, a very beautiful park with the largest rose garden in the state;
– Lake Eola Park, a lake where you can ride a pedal boat with the swans;
– Church Street, building with many shops, restaurants and bars.

Visit International Drive from Orlando Airport

This is the most popular avenue in the city. So, to know what it offers to tourists, see the following tips:

iFly, a parachute jump simulator;
– Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition, para os fãs do filme, uma exibição bem realista;
– Icebar: a bar built in ice;
– Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf, pirate-themed miniature golf.

We've already talked about it here on the blog. what to do on International Drive, check it out!

Disney, on the other hand, is a magical place full of attractions. For example, theme parks, water parks, tours, restaurants and much more.

Orlando Airport: welcomes passengers from all over the world

If you are planning to travel, it is at this terminal that you should disembark. After all, it is quite complete, with a great infrastructure.

MCO Orlando Airport
MCO Orlando Airport

In addition, it includes a hotel within it with:

– 445 rooms and suites;
– TV;
- Coffee machine.

Guests can enjoy the following services: bar and restaurant, swimming pool, fitness center. There are also golf courses in the surroundings.

There is a wide variety of stores and food courts. Even in the own Orlando airport you can rent a car. 

Or take a taxi and other means of moving around the city. So, in addition to being very elegant and spacious, it is one of the most complete terminals.

Be sure to visit the official site from Orlando airport.

I hope again that this post helped you in your research for your trip to Disney or Orlando.

As a way to help us keep the blog going, we just ask you to help us by sharing this publication and subscribing to our social networks as Facebook, Instagram or Youtube channel.

In addition to helping us, we are sure that there you will find hundreds of useful posts for your trip!

About the Author Carlos Braga:

Unparalleled experience in Orlando and Disney! As a former Universal Orlando team member and a passionate devotee of the magic of Disney, I have become a true Orlando travel expert. Before becoming a renowned travel consultant dedicated to Orlando, I had already made hundreds of visits to the parks, cultivating my knowledge and passion mainly over the last 7 years as a consultant and specialist in Disney travel.

My journey into this enchanted world began in 1995, when I took my first trip to Orlando. Since then, my love for Disney and the city has only grown. In 2023, we celebrate the sixth anniversary of 'Partiu Disney Parks', consolidating our role as one of the main sources of information about Disney and Orlando Parks.

During these six years of existence, we have continued to offer quality and updated content, being the reliable source for all those looking for essential information to plan their trip to Disney and Orlando. With my vast experience and passion for this magical destination, I am here to guide you every step of the way towards the most incredible Orlando and Disney experience!

I hope again that this post helped you in your research for your trip to Disney or Orlando.

As a way to help us keep the blog going, we just ask you to help us by sharing this publication and subscribing to our social networks as Facebook, Instagram or Youtube channel.

In addition to helping us, we are sure that there you will find hundreds of useful posts for your trip!

About the Author Carlos Braga:

Unparalleled experience in Orlando and Disney! As a former Universal Orlando team member and a passionate devotee of the magic of Disney, I have become a true Orlando travel expert. Before becoming a renowned travel consultant dedicated to Orlando, I had already made hundreds of visits to the parks, cultivating my knowledge and passion mainly over the last 7 years as a consultant and specialist in Disney travel.

My journey into this enchanted world began in 1995, when I took my first trip to Orlando. Since then, my love for Disney and the city has only grown. In 2023, we celebrate the sixth anniversary of 'Partiu Disney Parks', consolidating our role as one of the main sources of information about Disney and Orlando Parks.

During these six years of existence, we have continued to offer quality and updated content, being the reliable source for all those looking for essential information to plan their trip to Disney and Orlando. With my vast experience and passion for this magical destination, I am here to guide you every step of the way towards the most incredible Orlando and Disney experience!

I hope again that this post helped you in your research for your trip to Disney or Orlando.

As a way to help us keep the blog going, we just ask you to help us by sharing this publication and subscribing to our social networks as Facebook, Instagram or Youtube channel.

In addition to helping us, we are sure that there you will find hundreds of useful posts for your trip!

About the Author Carlos Braga:

Unparalleled experience in Orlando and Disney! As a former Universal Orlando team member and a passionate devotee of the magic of Disney, I have become a true Orlando travel expert. Before becoming a renowned travel consultant dedicated to Orlando, I had already made hundreds of visits to the parks, cultivating my knowledge and passion mainly over the last 7 years as a consultant and specialist in Disney travel.

My journey into this enchanted world began in 1995, when I took my first trip to Orlando. Since then, my love for Disney and the city has only grown. In 2023, we celebrate the sixth anniversary of 'Partiu Disney Parks', consolidating our role as one of the main sources of information about Disney and Orlando Parks.

During these six years of existence, we have continued to offer quality and updated content, being the reliable source for all those looking for essential information to plan their trip to Disney and Orlando. With my vast experience and passion for this magical destination, I am here to guide you every step of the way towards the most incredible Orlando and Disney experience!

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