Orlando International Airport is a central hub in Florida’s tourism and travel scene, serving millions of passengers annually. With its proximity to major attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Kennedy Space Center, MCO has become one of the most trafficked airports in the southeastern United States.
Among the many airlines operating out of MCO, Frontier Airlines is a prominent low-cost carrier offering budget-friendly flights to a wide range of destinations. In this in-depth guide, we’ll explore everything travelers need to know about navigating the MCO frontier terminal, ensuring a smooth and stress-free airport experience.
Orlando International Airport (MCO): A Snapshot
Orlando International Airport (MCO) is located just a short drive from downtown Orlando and caters to a large number of domestic and international passengers. MCO is known for its expansive layout, modern infrastructure, and wide selection of services.
The airport consists of three main terminals:
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Terminal A
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Terminal B
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Terminal C
Frontier Airlines operates primarily out of Terminal A, a busy and well-equipped area of the airport designed to handle high volumes of travelers efficiently.
Flying Frontier Airlines from Orlando
Frontier Airlines specializes in affordable airfare by offering a bare-bones travel experience and charging for optional add-ons like seat selection, carry-ons, and snacks. The airline has become a popular choice for travelers looking to save money, particularly for short trips or vacations.
When flying with Frontier out of MCO, here are some essential things to keep in mind:
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Boarding usually takes place at Terminal A
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Flights may depart from Airside 1 or Airside 2, so checking your flight status ahead of time is crucial
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Trams connect the main terminal to the gates, making it easy to get around even if you’re unfamiliar with the airport
Where to Check In
Upon entering Terminal A, you’ll find Frontier’s check-in counters on the first floor. Self-service kiosks and staffed counters are both available, allowing passengers to print boarding passes, pay for baggage, and drop off checked items.
To save time:
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Use the online check-in option available via Frontier’s website or mobile app
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Arrive early, especially during peak travel periods like holidays or weekends
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Bring printed or digital boarding passes and travel documents for faster processing
Getting Through Security
Terminal A has TSA checkpoints that service multiple airlines, including Frontier. Wait times can vary depending on the time of day, so allow for ample time before your flight.
Travel tip: TSA PreCheck is available at MCO and can significantly reduce your wait. If you’re not enrolled, plan for potential delays and consider arriving at least two hours before departure.
Once through security, you’ll take a short monorail ride to reach your designated gate area.
Terminal Amenities: Food, Retail, and More
Terminal A at MCO features a variety of passenger conveniences, including food courts, shopping outlets, charging stations, and comfortable seating areas. Whether you’re traveling solo, with kids, or on business, you’ll find plenty of options to meet your needs.
Dining Choices
Options range from fast-food favorites to sit-down restaurants. Among the choices:
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Asian Chao – Fast Asian cuisine perfect for a quick bite
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Auntie Anne’s – Fresh pretzels and snacks for those on the go
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Outback Steakhouse – Full-service dining for travelers with more time
Many eateries also offer takeaway options for those heading straight to the gate.
Shopping Highlights
Looking for travel gear, souvenirs, or reading material? Terminal A has:
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Newsstands with snacks, magazines, and essentials
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Gift shops with Florida-themed merchandise
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Tech stores offering headphones, chargers, and electronics
Seating, Lounges, and Relaxation Zones
Although Frontier Airlines does not offer access to premium lounges, Terminal A has several quiet areas with comfortable seating and natural light. These are ideal for passengers looking to rest, work, or simply relax before boarding.
You’ll also find workstations with power outlets and USB ports scattered throughout the terminal. These are particularly helpful for business travelers or anyone needing to recharge devices.
Parking at MCO for Frontier Passengers
There are multiple parking options for those driving to the airport. Frontier flyers can use:
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Terminal Garage A – Closest to Terminal A and directly connected via walkways
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Economy Lot – Offers budget parking with complimentary shuttles
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Valet Services – Available for those seeking added convenience
All parking areas are clearly marked, but taking a photo of your location is wise in case you forget where you parked upon your return.
Ground Transportation
Transportation to and from the airport is plentiful and includes:
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Rental cars – Located adjacent to Terminal A’s ground level
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Shuttles and hotel courtesy vans
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Ride-share pickups – Uber and Lyft are permitted and have designated zones
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Public buses – An affordable option for local travel
Plan your exit strategy ahead of time, especially if you’re arriving late at night or during peak hours when transportation demand is higher.
Traveling with Kids or Special Needs
MCO is a family- and accessibility-friendly airport, and Terminal A offers several resources for passengers with special requirements.
For Families
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Family restrooms are available throughout the terminal
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Quiet areas can serve as a break for overstimulated children
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Nursing rooms are available for new parents
For Passengers with Disabilities
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Wheelchair services can be requested through Frontier or arranged at the terminal
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Elevators, escalators, and ADA-compliant signage help with navigation
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Visual paging and hearing assistance are available upon request
Frontier Flight Destinations from Orlando
Frontier Airlines connects Orlando to a wide range of destinations across the U.S. and beyond. Popular domestic routes include:
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New York
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Atlanta
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Philadelphia
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Las Vegas
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Dallas
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Denver
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Cleveland
The airline also occasionally offers seasonal or limited international routes, so it’s a good idea to check the latest flight schedules when planning your trip.
What Makes Frontier Unique?
Frontier operates under an “à la carte” pricing model, allowing passengers to customize their flight experience. While base fares are among the lowest in the industry, travelers should factor in additional costs for:
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Carry-on luggage
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Checked baggage
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Preferred seating
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Onboard snacks and beverages
The trade-off? Passengers can fly for far less if they travel light and skip extras.
Tips for Flying Frontier at MCO
To help you navigate your Frontier Airlines flight from Orlando International Airport with confidence, consider the following travel tips:
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Pack light – Avoid baggage fees by using a personal item only.
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Bring your own food – Frontier doesn’t provide free snacks or drinks.
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Charge up – Power outlets are available, but may be limited during busy times.
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Arrive early – MCO gets busy; don’t risk missing your flight.
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Know your gate – Keep an eye on display boards for last-minute changes.
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Use a travel app – Apps can provide live updates, gate info, and airport maps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Where do I check in for Frontier flights at MCO?
A: Frontier’s check-in area is on the first level of Terminal A. Look for signage or kiosks labeled with the airline’s name.
Q: How early should I arrive for a Frontier flight at MCO?
A: At least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international travel.
Q: Can I bring a personal item for free?
A: Yes. Frontier allows one personal item (like a backpack or handbag) at no charge. Additional bags incur fees.
Q: Are there lounges in Terminal A for Frontier travelers?
A: Frontier does not offer lounge access, but Terminal A has comfortable public seating areas.
Q: What gate will my flight leave from?
A: Gate information is available on your boarding pass, airport displays, and the Frontier mobile app.
Q: Is Wi-Fi free at MCO?
A: Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
Bonus Travel Hacks
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Bring a reusable water bottle – Fill up after security to stay hydrated without paying for bottled water.
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Download entertainment – Frontier has no seatback screens; prepare your own.
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Use packing cubes – These help keep your personal item organized and compact.
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Opt for early flights – Morning departures are less likely to be delayed.
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Sign up for Frontier’s Discount Den – Frequent flyers can save on future bookings with this membership.
Final Thoughts
Flying with Frontier Airlines through the MCO frontier terminal offers a practical, budget-conscious way to reach a wide range of destinations. With a bit of planning, the experience can be surprisingly smooth—even for first-timers. Whether you’re heading out on vacation, visiting family, or just hopping on a short business trip, knowing what to expect at Terminal A gives you a serious head start.
Safe travels, and may your journey through MCO be as stress-free as your destination is exciting!
