How to Navigate Orlando International Airport Inside & Out
Orlando Airport Guide
Orlando International Airport isn’t just a gateway to world-class theme parks—it’s the front door to The City Beautiful. This Avis guide breaks down how to navigate the Orlando Airport from curbside to gate, helping you move confidently through MCO and get your Orlando plans started without missing a beat.
Orlando International Airport Quick Facts
Official name: Orlando International Airport
Official website: https://flymco.com/
Airport code: MCO, which comes from the airport’s former name, McCoy Air Force Base, which operated on the site before it became Orlando’s main commercial airport.
Airport history: Orlando International Airport opened for civilian use in 1976 on the former McCoy Air Force Base. As passenger travel boomed, the airport underwent continuous expansions and renovations to accommodate air travel demand. In recent years, major updates include the opening of Terminal C in 2022, adding modern gates, expanded security, and new international arrival facilities.
Number of terminals: Orlando International Airport has three terminals: Terminals A and B, which share the main terminal complex, and the newer Terminal C, located separately on the south side of the airport.
Tricks to Navigating MCO
Wondering how to navigate the Orlando Airport? Here are some tips to make your travel stress-free.
- Know your airport complex: Terminals A and B share one main complex, while Terminal C has its own complex on the southern side.
- Use a train to travel between your gate and the terminal: You can reach your gate in Terminal A or B only via a Gate Link train. Make sure to confirm your gate number before boarding a train—the gate areas are not connected to each. There’s also a separate train that connects the main terminal complex to Terminal C before security.
- Know your gate number: Gates in Terminals A and B only have gate numbers. You won’t see “A15” or “B20” like you might be accustomed to at other airports. Gates in Terminal C do have a letter, such as “C233.”
Outside the Terminals
Driving to the Orlando International Airport is pretty easy. Signage is clear and straightforward, including directions to the separate drop-off and pickup roadways. You can easily reach MCO using several of the nearby highways, including SR-528 (Beachline Expressway) and SR-417.
Avis car rentals are located inside a clearly marked rental center, not a remote off-site location, making pickups and drop-offs convenient for travelers. There’s also an on-airport gas station at the South Travel Plaza, so you can refuel or grab a snack without leaving airport property.
Inside the Terminals
The Orlando Airport layout is organized around two main terminal complexes. Terminals A and B share a single landside building where you’ll find ticketing, TSA screening, dining, shopping, and other airport amenities. After security, you’ll travel to your assigned airside concourse, where gates are located.
Terminal C is separate, with its own check-in, security, amenities, and concourse flow from start to finish. If you’re flying into MCO, you’ll find baggage claim on Level 2 for Terminals A and B. Baggage claim is on Level 6 of Terminal C.
How to Change Terminals at MCO
You can walk between Terminals A and B since they share the same landside building at MCO. However, Terminal C is in a separate complex with no pedestrian connections, so you’ll need to use the train to transfer to or from Terminal C.
Yes. Orlando International uses automated people movers to connect the main terminal (A/B) to its airside concourses, and a train links the A/B complex to Terminal C before security.
Hidden Gems at Orlando International Airport
Searching for things to do at the Orlando Airport during a layover or while you wait for your flight? We’ve got you.
- Annie’s Space Sensory Room: Located in Terminal A on level 3, this thoughtfully designed space offers calming lighting and a quiet environment for travelers with sensory sensitivities, as well as anyone who wants a break from the airport's hustle and bustle.
- Art at the Airport: Throughout MCO, rotating exhibits featuring Florida artists showcase a variety of media and styles, turning concourses into unique galleries as you move between gates.
- Moment Vault: A 360-degree immersive digital experience that places you inside vivid scenes—like underwater springs or a stylized Mars landscape—using interactive visuals on a massive wraparound screen.
Beyond the Orlando International Airport
A long layover at MCO opens the door to more than the local theme parks. If you find yourself with four or more hours to spare, why not visit nearby attractions like the Lake Nona Sculpture Garden or Universal CityWalk? Want even more ideas? Check out our Things to Do in Orlando Guide and our Business Travel in Orlando Guide.
If you’re looking for one-way rental options, choose from several Avis locations in Orlando to customize your rental to fit your travel plans.
Rent a Car at MCO from Avis
Now that you know how to navigate the Orlando airport and what to do while you wait for a flight, you’re all set for your next adventure. If your journey takes you beyond the airport, booking with Avis at MCO offers a fast, convenient way to explore The City Beautiful. Start a reservation today.
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