Orlando Airport Southwest Terminal +1-888-839-0502

The Orlando Airport Southwest Terminal is found in Terminal A and is the hub for travelers of Southwest Airlines. It has convenient check-in counters, efficient security, and easy gate access. The terminal has a number of dining places, retail stores, and comfortable seating areas for passengers. Reputed for its effectiveness and welcoming staff, the Southwest Terminal is well-organized, ensuring travel is seamless for leisure and business travelers alike. It's also near rental car services and ground transportation, making it easy to connect to Orlando's best spots.

A Traveler’s Guide to the Southwest Terminal at Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving as the main gateway to Central Florida's world-famous attractions. Whether you're headed to Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, or the beautiful beaches nearby, chances are you'll be passing through this bustling hub. Among the several airlines operating at, Southwest Airlines is a major player, known for its friendly service, flexible fares, and extensive domestic network.If you're flying Southwest in or out of Orlando, you'll be using the Terminal A, Airside 1  often simply referred to as the Southwest Terminal. Here's your comprehensive guide to navigating, enjoying, and making the most of your time in this terminal.

Location & Overview: Where to Find the Southwest Terminal

Southwest Airlines operates primarily out of Terminal A, which is located on the north side of the main terminal building. Within Terminal A, Southwest flights depart from Gates 100–129, found in Airside 1. This area is accessible via the airport’s automated people mover (APM), a quick monorail ride from the main terminal hub.

Key areas:

  • Check-in: Level 3 of Terminal A
  • Security Checkpoint: After check-in, you'll head down to Level 2 for TSA screening before boarding the APM
  • Gates: Gates 100–129 (Airside 1)

If you’re arriving at via Southwest, you’ll deplane at Airside 1 and take the APM to Terminal A’s main concourse where you’ll find baggage claim, ground transportation, and rental car services.

Check-In and Security: What to Expect

Southwest Airlines offers self-service kiosks, full-service counters, and curbside check-in (weather permitting) for passengers. As always, it’s best to check in online or via the Southwest app 24 hours in advance to get a good boarding position — especially since Southwest doesn’t assign seats.

Tips for Smooth Check-In:

  • Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight (especially during holidays and peak seasons)
  • Use the Southwest app for mobile boarding passes and real-time updates
  • If you're traveling with checked bags, head straight to the bag drop area after online check-in

TSA screening in Terminal A can get crowded during peak times, but generally efficient. Consider TSA PreCheck or CLEAR if you’re a frequent traveler looking to streamline your airport experience.

Dining and Shopping: Options at the Southwest Terminal

Airside 1 is well-equipped with restaurants, snack shops, coffee spots, and retail stores to keep you fed, caffeinated, and entertained before your flight.

Dining Options

Whether you need a quick bite or a sit-down meal, there’s a variety of choices:

  • Cask & Larder: A Southern-style gastropub with craft brews, breakfast options, and hearty entrees
  • Starbucks: For your caffeine fix and travel snacks
  • On the Border: Casual Tex-Mex cuisine with margaritas, tacos, and more
  • Einstein Bros. Bagels: A go-to for breakfast sandwiches and coffee
  • Zaza Cuban Comfort Food: Local favorite serving empanadas, rice bowls, and Cuban coffee

Shopping Highlights

If you’ve got time to kill or forgot to grab a souvenir, check out:

  • Sunglass Hut: Designer sunglasses for your Florida sun needs
  • Hudson News: Grab books, magazines, snacks, and last-minute travel essentials
  • Disney and Universal Stores: Perfect for picking up branded merchandise before or after your theme park adventures
  • Tech on the Go: For chargers, headphones, and other electronics

Amenities and Services

The Southwest Terminal includes several traveler-friendly amenities to make your time at MCO more comfortable.

Wi-Fi and Charging

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, including Airside 1. Charging stations and power outlets are located near most gates, and many seating areas are equipped with USB ports.

Family-Friendly Facilities

  • Nursing Rooms: Located in Terminal A for traveling moms needing a quiet space
  • Play Areas: While there’s no large play structure, the airport offers some kid-friendly art and open spaces for little ones to stretch their legs

Accessibility

MCO is well-equipped with accessible features including elevators, wheelchair assistance, and ADA-compliant restrooms. Request wheelchair services through Southwest when booking or at check-in.

Pet Relief Areas

Traveling with pets? There are pet relief stations located both before and after security to accommodate furry companions.

Navigating the Airport: Transportation & Parking

Getting to and from MCO

MCO is easily accessible from downtown Orlando and surrounding areas via:

  • I-4 and SR-528 (Beachline Expressway)
  • Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) and taxis
  • Shuttle services to resorts and hotels
  • SunRail and Lynx buses for public transportation options

Parking at MCO

For those driving to the airport, there are several parking options:

  • Parking Garage A: Closest to Terminal A
  • Economy Lots: Budget-friendly, with free shuttle service
  • Valet and Express Parking: Ideal for travelers in a rush

Check availability and rates online in advance MCO’s parking areas can fill up during peak travel times.

Insider Tips for a Smooth Experience

Here are a few extra tips to make your trip through the Southwest Terminal even better:

  1. Download the MCO App: Offers real-time flight updates, maps, wait times, and more
  2. Watch Security Wait Times: Southwest Airlines posts live TSA wait times on its website and app — check before heading to the airport
  3. Stay Charged and Connected: Bring a portable charger for backup power during busy travel days
  4. Bring an Empty Water Bottle: Fill it post-security at the many water refill stations
  5. Check Gate Assignments: Southwest gate numbers can change — double-check on your boarding pass or the screens near security

Final Thoughts: 

The MCO Southwest Terminal is a well-designed, traveler-friendly space that balances efficiency with comfort. With solid food options, quick gate access, and plenty of helpful amenities, it’s a great launching pad for your Florida adventure. Whether you’re headed to a conference, a vacation, or just passing through, this terminal has everything you need to start or end your journey on the right note.