Orlando Airports Travel Guide

Key Highlights

• Orlando has two main airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB).

• Orlando International (MCO) is bigger and has more flights. It is also closer to important places like Walt Disney World.

• Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is not as busy, so it gives a calm and easy travel time. It is good for travelers who are flying inside the country.

• You can also use Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) as a good way to get into the Orlando area.

• Which airport you take depends on where you want to go, how much you want to pay, and if you want direct flights for international or domestic trips.

Introduction

Welcome to Orlando! If you want to visit the center of fun here in Florida, the first thing to do is pick the right orlando airport. There are a few good choices, and picking the best one for you can change how your trip feels. This guide is here to help you learn more about each orlando airport. You will find out about where they are, what you can get while there, and how each airport fits your travel style. Are you ready to find out which orlando airport is the best way to start your orlando trip? Let’s look at your options!

Overview of Orlando’s Major Airports

When you fly into Orlando, you can pick from a few very good airports. The biggest ones are Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Both of these have something special if you want to see different parts of Florida.

There is also Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB). It is another airport for the area. This is a good choice if you want to be near the coast or the Daytona Beach area. The place you want to end up in Central Florida, like downtown Orlando or one of the fun parks, will help you choose the right airport.

If you want to know more, don’t forget about orlando international airport, orlando sanford international airport, melbourne orlando international airport, and the Daytona Beach area when you make your plans.

Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the main airports in Florida. It connects people to many places in the US and the world with a big list of nonstop flights. The airport has new features that help make travel smooth and pleasant for all. Orlando International is close to downtown Orlando and top spots like Walt Disney World. There are several terminals in the airport, so it can host big airlines such as American Airlines and Delta. Getting in and out of the airport is easy and fast. There are many transport options to other cities, including Daytona Beach, Sanford, and Daytona, making it a good choice for travelers in the area.

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) gives you a travel experience that’s different from what you get at MCO. It first opened as Naval Air Station Sanford during the 1940s. Since then, it became a popular choice for many people who want an option beside MCO. The airport is in Sanford, almost 27 miles from downtown Orlando. SFB is known for being quick to get through and having a calm feel. If you want short lines and fast check-ins, this is a good place to use. In addition to its efficient service, Orlando Sanford International Airport amenities include various shops and dining options to enhance your layover experience. Travelers can enjoy a selection of food choices ranging from quick snacks to sit-down meals. The airport also provides comfortable seating areas and free Wi-Fi, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and productivity.

This airport is a focus city for low-cost airlines such as Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines. SFB also has some flights to other countries. Inside, the airport has two terminals—A and B. These are simple to find your way around. Terminal A usually takes care of flights coming in from other countries. Terminal B mostly handles flights across the U.S.

When you think about SFB compared to MCO, Sanford is not as busy and is easy to move around in. It’s a great spot for those who want to visit Orlando’s northern suburbs or if you’re heading out to the Daytona Beach area on Florida’s east coast. It’s also good for travels along the beautiful sands of Daytona and beyond.

Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)

Have you thought about using Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) for your next trip? This airport is run by both civilians and the military, so the Air National Guard also uses the runways. It offers you a nice choice when coming to the Orlando area, especially if you want to see the Space Coast or spend time at some beautiful beaches nearby. This spot is a simple and easy option, away from the big hubs in Orlando.

Melbourne Orlando International Airport now gives you more direct flights, coming from different cities in the United States and even from other countries. Delta is one of the airlines to use at this airport, and it helps you get to many big orlando international and orlando international airport hubs, making travel smooth and not hard. This airport is smaller, so you get less stress and can reach your car faster after landing.

If you want to get away from the big crowds at larger airports, but still be close to all the fun places in Central Florida, Melbourne Orlando International Airport is a great fit. Its spot near the beach and the way it’s easy to move around make it a smart pick for any traveler.

Choosing the Right Orlando Airport for Your Trip

Picking the right Orlando airport depends on what you need. Will you be coming from another country or just from somewhere else in the state? Where you are coming from, where you are going, and how you like to travel will help you choose between Orlando International (MCO), Sanford (SFB), and Melbourne Orlando International (MLB).

Each Orlando airport serves different types of people. Orlando International is the main place for international flights and big airlines. Sanford is good if you want to save money on trips within the country. SFB works well for those looking for low prices on domestic flights. We will show you the big differences between them to help you pick the right orlando airport for your trip.

Comparing Airport Locations and Accessibility

Traveling in orlando gives you more than one airport you can use. Each airport has ways to help all people get in and out easily. Orlando International Airport (mco) is only 18 miles from the city center. This makes orlando international airport a good spot for those who want to see walt disney world and other big places in orlando. On the other hand, orlando sanford international airport (sfb) is farther north. It can be better for people who come from the daytona beach area. Both orlando international and sanford airports have good ground ride choices, so it is simple to go anywhere in central florida from these airports.

Best Options for International and Domestic Flights

Your choice for an airport in Orlando depends on if you fly worldwide or within the country. If you want to go worldwide, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the best. This airport has many nonstop flights from different places and it also has good customs to help people get through fast.

If you are flying in the country, you can pick from more airports. MCO gives you lots of travel paths with lines like Delta, American, and United. On the other hand, Orlando Sanford (SFB) is a big place for airlines that can cost less. This is good for people who want to save money and like airports that are not too busy. Both airports now bring in new nonstop routes.

Here’s a simple look:

• MCO: This is best for worldwide flights and when you want more choices from big airline lines.

• SFB: This is great for people flying in the country and want to fly on a budget with airlines like Allegiant.

• MLB: This is good if you wish to go to the Space Coast and want to stay away from large crowds.

Orlando Airports Beginner’s Guide – What You Need to Know

Feeling a bit worried about getting around the airport? Don’t stress about it. We are here to help. If this is your first flight or your first time at a new airport, it can feel a bit much. But if you get ready before you go, you can move through the airport with confidence. Start by making sure you have your main travel papers and know what happens at the airport.

This guide will help you walk through the security checkpoint and point out useful services you may need. It is for people who are at the airport for the first time. You can find out what to pack and where to find the right help to make your trip easy and worry-free.

Essential Documents and Items for Travelers

Having your important papers ready is the first thing you should do for a smooth travel day. Before you leave for the airport, check again to make sure you have all you need for your trip. This small step can help you save stress at both the check-in counter and the security checkpoint.

Every traveler should have a photo ID that the government gives out. If you will go to another country, you need to check that your passport will still work and that you have all needed visas. It is smart to keep a copy of your flight confirmation and each hotel or car booking, either on your phone or printed.

Here are a few key items to keep easily accessible:

• Government-issued photo ID (Driver’s License, Passport)

• Boarding pass (printed or on your mobile device)

• Credit cards and some cash

• Necessary medications

• Contact information for your accommodations

Useful Resources and Airport Services for First-Time Visitors

Going through a big Orlando airport for the first time can be easy if you have the right help with you. At MCO, you can use a great mobile app. It gives you updates on flight status, any gate changes, and how long the security lines are. The app is free, and you will find it very helpful if you are new to the airport.

Most airports like orlando have information desks with staff who are there to help. You can ask them questions or get directions. Look for signs that show you the way to these desks, or check the airport map to find them. The airport authority website is also a top choice. There, you can see maps of the airport, find places to eat, and learn about ways to get around.

Do not forget to use these airport services:

• Free Wi-Fi to help you stay online

• Charging stations for all your devices

• Nursing pods for mothers who travel with babies

• Pet relief areas for your animals

• Global Entry and CLEAR if you want to get through security faster

Step-by-Step Guide to Navigating Orlando Airports

Get ready to use your chosen Orlando airport with no stress. This easy guide shows you what to do, from when you get there to when you leave. There is help for you at every step so you will know what is coming next and feel more calm. Orlando airport tips for Disney travelers can enhance your journey by providing insights on the best transportation options to the parks. Consider arriving early to navigate through security and grab any last-minute essentials. Staying hydrated and planning your meals ahead of time can also help you save time and enjoy your experience even more.

In this, we will talk about check-in, getting through security, where to go for rides, and how to use the airport’s facilities. With these simple steps, you can make your time at an Orlando airport fast and easy. This will help you have a good start or finish to your day in Orlando.

Step 1: Arriving and Checking In at the Airport

Getting to the airport in Orlando does not have to be hard if you do a bit of planning. Before you leave for Orlando International Airport or Orlando Sanford International Airport, it is smart to check your flight time and the terminal where you need to be. When you get there, you will need to go through the security checkpoint first. After that, you can do the check-in process. Most airlines at Orlando International and Sanford give people self-service kiosks. You can use these to print your boarding pass and check your bags. If you get ready ahead of time, you can get through each step with no stress. This helps you start your trip in a good way.

Step 2: Security Procedures and Boarding Process

The security checkpoint can be tough for many people, but it does not have to be. To make things go better, have your boarding pass and ID ready for the TSA agent. You will need to put your carry-on things, electronics, and any jackets or coats in bins to be checked.

Be ready to take bigger gadgets like laptops out of your bag. You can save time at the security checkpoint if you wear shoes that are easy to slip on and off. If you travel a lot, you may want to get TSA PreCheck or CLEAR. These programs give you a faster way through the checkpoint at many airports, including MCO. With these services, you can use a special lane, and you often do not need to take off your shoes or take out your laptop.

After you get past security, check the departure board to see your gate and boarding time. Boarding most times starts about 30 to 45 minutes before the plane leaves. Listen to the gate agent, who will tell people to board in their group.

Step 3: Finding Transportation from the Airport

Once you get your bags, the next thing you need to do is find a ride to where you are going. The airports in Orlando have many ways to help you get there, no matter your budget or your needs. This is true if you are going to a hotel, to visit a theme park, or leaving the city for a place like Winter Haven.

At MCO, you can easily use public transport. The SunRail train goes straight to many big spots in the city. The Lynx bus system can also take you to a lot of places, both in Orlando and around the region. SFB does not have public transit. So, at SFB, you will have to look for a different way to reach your stop.

If you want direct, door-to-door service from any airport, you can pick one of these:

• Rental Car: Get a car from one of the many rental desks at the airport.

• Ridesharing: Use apps like Uber or Lyft from their special pick-up spots.

• Taxi: Find a taxi waiting right outside near the baggage claim.

• Airport Shuttle: Book a ride with a shared or private shuttle. This can save you money.

Step 4: Accessing Facilities and Amenities During Your Stay

Once you get through security, it is a good time to enjoy the airport’s features. If you have a long layover or even just a little extra time before you get on your flight, the airports in Orlando have many ways to help you relax, eat, and shop. Checking out what the airport has can help you pass the time and feel better while you wait.

If you want a quiet place to relax, many airports now have quiet zones or yoga rooms. If you want to get some work done, look for a business space or lounge where you can find a calm spot and charging areas. There are many options at the terminal that let you be productive, or just rest before your flight.

You can shop for last-minute gifts or have a meal, as the food and shopping choices are very good, especially at MCO. There are quick places to grab food as well as nice sit-down restaurants and fancy stores. Walk around the terminal and see what you like.

Exploring Amenities and Services at Orlando Airports

An airport is not just where you get on a plane. It is the start of your trip. The airports in Orlando have many things that can make travel easy and fun. You can find good food, great shops, and places to relax. There is something there for everyone.

You might need a spot to chill before a morning flight. You might want to shop, eat, or take it easy. There are a lot of choices. Let’s take a look at the hotels, lounges, and other services at the main airports in Orlando.

Dining, Shopping, and Relaxation Areas

Feeling hungry? The airports in Orlando have many places you can eat. At MCO, you can sip wine at Wine Bar George. If you want something sweet, stop by the “Magic of Disney” store for a themed snack. SFB also has good food. You can grab a cafecito and empanada at Zaza, which is a Cuban restaurant that people like, before your flight.

There are plenty of places for shopping too. MCO has fancy brands and fun shops like the Universal Store. Here, you can snap a selfie with Hagrid’s motorbike. SFB is smaller, but you still get quick newsstands and stores for anything you need at the last moment.

When you need a break, you will find spots for rest. Some airports in Orlando also have special things to help you enjoy your wait. At SFB, the cell phone waiting lot is also a military airplane museum. Other things you can use at the airports are:

• Free Wi-Fi

• Nursing pods

• Pet relief stations

• Airport art programs

• Kids’ play areas

Hotels and Lounges Inside or Near the Airports

If you have to catch a flight early in the morning or your layover is too long, staying at an airport hotel can really help. At Orlando International Airport (MCO), the Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is right inside the main terminal. This gives you total convenience. You can get up, feel well-rested, and walk straight to your gate without any stress about traffic.

If you want to get away from the noise, think about going to one of the airport lounges. These spots come with free snacks and drinks. There are comfortable chairs and it is much quieter than the busy terminal. Lounges are open at MCO, and Orlando International’s SFB terminal has the Royal Palm Lounge.

Here are a few ways you can relax and rest:

• Hyatt Regency at MCO: This hotel is inside the airport, so you get the most convenience.

• Airport Lounges: You can find these in both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and SFB. They give you a premium place to wait before your flight.

• Nearby Hotels: Many hotels with shuttle service are just a short drive from the airport.

Airlines and Destinations from Orlando Airports

Are you thinking about which airlines fly from Orlando and where you can go? The city’s airports help you reach hundreds of places around the world. MCO is a big hub for flights in the US and to other countries, with many routes.

SFB is smaller, but it still has good service. The airport has many budget airlines that go to top spots around the US. If you want to fly across the country or someplace far away, you will find many choices. Now, let’s see what the main airlines are and where you can travel from each airport.

Major Domestic Airlines and Routes

When it comes to domestic travel, Orlando’s airports have you covered. Orlando International Airport (MCO) is served by all major domestic airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United, and Southwest. With hundreds of daily flights, it connects Orlando to nearly every major city in the United States, handling significant passenger traffic.

Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is a key base for budget-friendly domestic airlines. Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines are the main carriers here, offering nonstop service to many smaller and mid-sized cities across the country. This makes SFB a fantastic option for affordable domestic getaways.

Here is a look at some of the major domestic airlines and where they primarily operate:

Airport	Major Domestic Airlines
MCO	American, Delta, United, Southwest, Frontier, JetBlue
SFB	Allegiant Air, Sun Country Airlines

Top International Destinations and Carriers

For people who want to travel outside the country, Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the top place to start. The airport is busy and has nonstop flights to Europe, Latin America, Canada, and the Caribbean. There are many choices at this hub because big airline companies fly out of orlando international.

Airlines such as British Airways, Lufthansa, Emirates, and Copa Airlines all travel from MCO. These flights help you get from orlando to important cities around the world. You can start your trip from mco and be sure that the airport will make it easy when you come back, thanks to their new customs area.

Here are some of the main international places you can reach with nonstop flights from orlando international airport:

• London, United Kingdom

• Frankfurt, Germany

• Dubai, UAE

• Panama City, Panama

Conclusion

To sum up, getting around Orlando’s airports like Orlando International, Sanford, and Melbourne can be much easier when you have the right details. This guide helps you learn about each airport and pick the best one for your plans. When you know what you need to bring, what things you can use inside the airport, and how to get to and from the airport, your trip will feel smoother. It doesn’t matter if this is your first time in Orlando or if you have been here before. The tips above will help you enjoy your time. Make sure to use the many services these airports have for travelers. If you want more tips just for you or need more help, reach out to us for a free chat.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Orlando International Airport (MCO) from downtown Orlando?

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is about 13 miles southeast of downtown Orlando, Florida. The airport is close to the city. This location makes orlando international airport a good choice for people who travel. You can drive to downtown orlando or the main theme parks in a short time, but it can change if there is a lot of traffic.

What transportation options are available from Orlando airports?

From Orlando airports, you will see many ways to travel. You can use rental car services, take a taxi, or get a ride with apps like Uber and Lyft. There are also airport shuttle services that you can set up before you get there. At MCO, there is public transportation too. You can use the SunRail train and the Lynx bus system. This gives people in Orlando, Florida more choices for getting around.

How does Sanford Airport compare to Orlando International Airport?

Sanford Airport (SFB) is smaller and not as busy as Orlando International Airport (MCO). MCO has lots of flights, including many to other countries, and big airlines use it. But SFB is a hub for cheaper airlines like Allegiant. The airport in Sanford gives you a more relaxed and fast way to travel.

Are there other airports near Orlando besides MCO?

Yes, there is more than the Orlando International Airport (MCO) in the area. The city is also served by Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). You can also use Melbourne Orlando International Airport, or even Daytona Beach International Airport. These options mean travelers have some flexibility in how they fly into Florida, depending on where they want to go in Central Florida. Whether you choose orlando international, daytona beach, or sanford, there is a good way to get in and out of the area.