Your gateway to Florida's dynamic environment is served by two Orlando airports: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Each airport offers distinct benefits and caters to different types of travelers. In this guide, I'll dive into the unique features of both MCO and SFB, helping you choose where to land into.
Orlando International Airport
International Airport (MCO) is not just the busiest airports in Florida, it is also one of the busiest airports in the entire country. With more than 57 million passengers passing through last year, the airport rarely has a slow day.
Location
Orlando International Airport is just 13 miles southeast of downtown Orlando. This proximity makes it the premier gateway for millions of tourists visiting the city's famed attractions, such as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios. MCO offers far more convenient access to Orlando’s main tourist areas compared to the more distantly located Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). I tend to prioritize flying into MCO because of its central location.
How to get there?
You can easily access MCO through a range of public transportation options. The most direct route is via the SunRail, which links the airport to key locations throughout the city. For broader coverage, the Lynx bus network provides several routes that service the airport and fan out across the region. For door-to-door service, ride sharing and taxis are available, albeit at a higher cost. Personally, I always opt for the SunRail when heading to MCO. It’s a lifesaver during rush hour, helping me avoid the notorious I-4 traffic jams, and gets me to the airport relaxed and ready to fly.
Terminals
Orlando International Airport is one of my favourite airports to arrive early to. I can get my steps in before a flight exploring the three terminals spread out over two buildings.
- Terminal A is your launch pad primarily for domestic jaunts. Airlines like Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Southwest buzz through here. Get your last-minute Disney fix with a stop at the "Magic of Disney" store right in the terminal.
- Terminal B serves both domestic and international travelers with carriers like American, Delta and United. If you fancy a bit of luxury shopping or a hearty meal during your layover, this place has you covered, top to bottom.
- Terminal C is the newer kid on the block. I used to leave the airport if I had a long layover on a connecting flight, but now I head over to Terminal C, have a glass of bubbly at Wine Bar George before taking a selfie Hagrid’s Motorbike at the Universal Store.
Other amenities
Having landed and taken off from MCO countless times, I have created my list of favorites:
MCO's app is your secret weapon for navigating the Orlando airport like a pro. It clues you in on security wait times and keeps you updated on your flight details. From grabbing a bite or picking up a last-minute gift, the app has all the info you need. Best of all, it's free and ready for download on both Android and iPhone.
Because of the crowded nature of the airport, I like to arrive with plenty of time to get through security and to my gate on time. If you have CLEAR Plus, you will be happy to know that MCO is one of seven American airports that has Reserve by CLEAR. This free program lets you book a specific time to use an exclusive CLEAR-only security lane.
The Hyatt Regency Orlando International Airport is located onsite for those travelers who need to stay at the airport overnight. If I have a super early flight, I will book a night there to avoid any early morning mishaps on the road.
Orlando Sanford International Airport
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is the second of the Orlando airports. It opened in the 1940s as a Naval Air Station. Since then, it has become known as a hub primarily for domestic flights, though it also handles some international traffic. Known for its convenience and efficiency, SFB offers a more relaxed alternative to the busier MCO with shorter lines and quicker processing times.
Location
While it has Orlando in the name, Orlando Sanford International Airport is technically in Sanford, Florida. It is roughly 27 miles northeast of downtown Orlando making it particularly convenient for travelers heading to the northern suburbs of Orlando or those interested in exploring the beaches on the eastern coast of Central Florida. When I am craving some beach time, I like to grab a low-cost airline ticket on Allegiant Airlines, fly into SFB, rent a car from the airport, and drive less than an hour to Daytona.
How to get there?
Unlike MCO, which provides passengers with both bus and train public transportation options to get to the Orlando Airport, SFB does not offer public transit services. This is a bummer for those of us who prefer public transit. Taxis, rideshares, and pre-arranged shuttle services are the primary ways out-of-town passengers get to-and-from the airport. While this is obviously a more expensive option, I find it to be the option that offers the flexibility of exploring the area that public transportation does not.
Terminals
Sixteen gates are spread over two two-story terminals. Baggage Claim and Ticketing are on the ground floor while Departures is on the second floor. Allegiant Airlines and Sun County Airlines are the airport’s two main airline carriers. The official website for this Orlando airport recommends travelers get to the airport two hours early for domestic flights, but outside of significant holiday travel days, I rarely see this airport crowded. It usually takes me less than 15 minutes to get through security.
Terminal A typically handles international flights. The terminal features a compact selection of four retail shops including a convenient news-stand, a small food court and the Royal Palm Lounge. Terminal B typically handles domestic flights. One of the highlights of this terminal is the Cuban comfort food restaurant Zaza. I love grabbing a quick empanada and cafecito before my flight. Another crowd favorite is Cheeburger Cheeburger Express.
Amenities
SFB has all the accouterments of a modern airport that make a traveler's life easier - free Wi-Fi, a pet relief station, a nursing pod, Global Entry and ATMs. If someone is picking me up, I always tell them to get there early so they have time to visit the NAS Sanford Memorial Park. The military airplane museum doubles as a cell phone waiting lot, allowing people to soak in some aviation history while they wait.
Which of the Orlando airports is right for you?
It depends greatly on where you are flying in from and where you want to go. I love both airports, but they each serve distinctly different traveler needs.
- MCO is the better choice between the 2 Orlando airports for international travelers because of its extensive network of global flights and advanced customs facilities. The wide array of amenities such as luxury shopping, high-end dining, and various lounges will keep you occupied before take-off.
- SFB is more suited for domestic travelers who want a more relaxed travel experience. The airport's smaller size and lesser crowd make it ideal for quick transfers and shorter waits. It might be my favorite out of the two Orlando airports because of this. I don’t mind that it doesn’t have all the dinning and shopping options that MCO has. I would rather get in and out of the airport quickly. That said, if you are coming to town specifically for amusement parks, MCO is the better choice for quick access.
How this guide was created?
My familiarity with Central Florida's airports grew significantly after my parents moved to Florida 25 years ago. From Spring Break to Labor Day to Fourth of July, there is always a good time of year to visit Orlando. This guide compiles my best airport tips and useful information to help you choose the right airport for your next adventure in the Sunshine State.
But wherever you are flying in, check out KAYAK’s comprehensive flight guide and airport guide.
