Traveling through Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about to get a whole lot easier. As one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving over 60 million passengers annually, MCO is no stranger to long security lines, crowded terminals, and the occasional parking headache. Now, with a suite of updates ranging from streamlined security processes to exciting new dining options, this Central Florida travel hub is setting new standards for passenger convenience and comfort.
Skip the Lines: MCO Reserve Makes Security a Breeze
For those dreading long waits at security checkpoints, MCO Reserve offers a game-changing solution. This free service allows passengers to pre-book a specific time to go through security, eliminating much of the unpredictability and stress of airport travel.
Here’s how it works:
- Head to the MCO Reserve website to input your flight details and select a convenient security screening time.
- Receive a confirmation email with your reservation details.
- Arrive at the designated checkpoint at your reserved time and bypass the standard line.
The service operates daily from 5 AM to 5 PM, accommodating flights scheduled between 6:30 AM and 8:30 PM. It’s perfect for those without TSA PreCheck or CLEAR+ memberships, making it an accessible option for most travelers.
Pro tip: Travelers departing from Gates 1-59 should note a recent change—security for these gates has moved to the Terminal A entrance. Plan ahead to avoid unnecessary backtracking!
Exciting Dining and Retail Upgrades
Dining at the airport is no longer just about grabbing a quick bite before your flight. MCO is raising the bar by adding several local culinary gems to its already impressive roster of over 150 restaurants and shops.
New eateries coming soon include:
- Stasio’s Italian Deli & Market
- Smoke & Donuts
- Kelly’s Ice Cream
- SoDough Detroit Pizza
- Milkhouse
- Jam-Eng
- 4 Rivers Smokehouse
These additions showcase the vibrant food scene of Central Florida, giving travelers a taste of local flavor while supporting small businesses. Whether you’re craving artisan pizza, handcrafted ice cream, or authentic Jamaican patties, there’s something for everyone.
Terminal and Airside Renovations
To accommodate its growing passenger numbers and elevate the overall experience, MCO is undertaking extensive renovations:
- Airside 1 and Airside 3 will receive $65 million in upgrades, including modernized flooring, refreshed bathrooms, and enhanced gate areas. Airside 1 serves carriers like Frontier and Spirit, while Airside 3 caters to Alaska Airlines, United, and others.
- Terminal C, the airport’s newest addition, is set to get even better with the introduction of a parking reservation system and a new Consolidated Rental Car Facility, which will free up 4,500 parking spaces by 2032.
Renovations are slated to begin in mid-2025, with completion planned in phases to ensure minimal disruption to travelers.
Smarter Parking: Technology to the Rescue
For those driving to the airport, parking is about to become much simpler. MCO is investing $13 million in a parking guidance system designed to make finding a spot as seamless as possible.
Here’s what to expect:
- Real-time parking availability displays for each garage.
- A camera-based license plate recognition system to help locate parked vehicles.
MCO’s current 23,000 parking spaces will remain operational during construction, with plans to expand capacity in the coming years. Installation of the new system will begin in mid-2025 and is expected to wrap up by 2027.
The Bigger Picture: Redefining the Airport Experience
The updates at MCO are more than just cosmetic—they represent a broader effort by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) to redefine the passenger journey. From the moment travelers arrive at the parking lot to their final gate departure, every step is being reimagined with convenience and enjoyment in mind.
“These enhancements reflect our commitment to providing an exceptional experience for the millions of guests who pass through MCO each year,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of GOAA. “By integrating cutting-edge technology and showcasing the best of Central Florida’s dining and retail offerings, we’re ensuring that Orlando International Airport remains a premier destination for air travel.”
What It Means for Travelers
Whether you’re planning to use MCO Reserve to skip the security lines or looking forward to sampling local flavors at the new restaurants, these updates are designed to make your journey more enjoyable. As the airport continues to evolve, passengers can expect even more exciting changes in the years ahead.
When traveling through MCO, remember: arriving early, planning ahead, and taking advantage of these new services can turn a typically stressful experience into a seamless and even delightful part of your trip.
What do you think of this alternate line-skipping option?
