Traveling can be stressful, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the airport layout, terminal services, and check-in procedures. If you’re flying with Frontier Airlines through Orlando International Airport (MCO), having a detailed understanding of the MCO frontier terminal can make a world of difference. Whether you're departing, arriving, or in transit, this guide offers a complete breakdown of what to expect at the terminal used by Frontier at MCO, helping you travel with confidence and ease.
Orlando International Airport is Florida's busiest airport and among the top ten busiest in the United States. It serves as a hub for both domestic and international travel, handling over 50 million passengers annually. As a major gateway to world-famous attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and other Orlando hotspots, the airport is always bustling with tourists, families, and business travelers.
MCO is divided into several terminals and airsides, each hosting different airlines. Frontier Airlines operates primarily out of Terminal A, Airside 1. Understanding this layout is crucial for navigating your journey effectively.
Frontier Airlines passengers will need to check in and board from Terminal A at Orlando International Airport. Once you arrive at MCO, look for signage pointing you toward Terminal A. This terminal serves multiple airlines, but Frontier uses Airside 1, which is accessible via an Automated People Mover (APM) after the security checkpoint.
Check-in Level: Level 3 of Terminal A
Gates: Typically 1-29 (Airside 1)
Security: TSA security checkpoint is located just after the check-in area
Transport: Automated tram (APM) takes you from the main terminal to Airside 1
Give yourself ample time to go through check-in and security, as the tram ride adds an extra few minutes.
Frontier offers online check-in up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure. This is a great way to save time and avoid long lines at the airport.
For those who didn’t check in online, there are self-service kiosks available near the check-in counters at Terminal A. These kiosks allow you to print boarding passes and pay for baggage if needed.
After check-in, you can proceed to the baggage drop-off counters. Make sure your bag complies with Frontier’s size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees.
After checking in, you’ll proceed to TSA security screening. MCO is known for long lines during peak travel times, especially holidays and weekends, so plan accordingly. It’s recommended to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours for international departures.
Once through security, you'll take the APM tram to Airside 1, where your Frontier gate will be located.
Airside 1 is where you’ll find Frontier’s departure gates, and it includes a range of services and amenities to make your wait more enjoyable.
Though not as extensive as other parts of the airport, Airside 1 has several solid choices:
Zaza Cuban Comfort Food – Great for a warm, satisfying meal
On the Border Express – Tex-Mex offerings for a quick bite
Starbucks – For your caffeine fix or a quick snack
Need to grab a last-minute souvenir or travel item? You’ll find:
Magic of Disney – Perfect for picking up Disney-themed gifts
Hudson News – For books, snacks, and travel essentials
Sunglass Hut – In case you forgot your shades for that Florida sun
Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal
Multiple charging stations
Accessible restrooms
Nursing rooms for traveling parents
Pet relief areas for those traveling with furry friends
Gate assignments can change, so always verify your gate number on the airport monitors or the Frontier app. Frontier is a low-cost carrier, so boarding procedures may be slightly different from other airlines.
Here are a few things to note:
Boarding Groups: Frontier boards by zones, which are printed on your boarding pass.
Carry-On Rules: Only personal items are free; carry-on bags come with an additional fee unless purchased during booking.
Be On Time: Frontier strictly enforces check-in and boarding cutoff times. Arriving late may result in denied boarding.
If you’re arriving in Orlando via Frontier Airlines, you’ll disembark at Airside 1. From there, you’ll take the APM back to Terminal A for baggage claim and ground transportation.
Frontier baggage claim is located on Level 2 of Terminal A. Luggage usually arrives promptly, but wait times can vary depending on the volume of flights.
Once you’ve picked up your bags, you can find a wide range of ground transportation options:
Rental Cars: Level 1 of Terminal A
Rideshare Services: Follow signage to designated pickup areas
Taxis and Shuttles: Also located on Level 1
Public Transit: Lynx buses and shuttle services are available
MCO is fully ADA-compliant and offers a range of services for passengers with special needs:
Wheelchair assistance (book in advance through Frontier)
Accessible restrooms and seating areas
Visual paging and information displays for the hearing impaired
Frontier staff at MCO are trained to assist with mobility, hearing, and visual impairments. If you require special assistance, arrive early and notify airline staff upon check-in.
Orlando is a family-oriented destination, and MCO is designed to cater to traveling families. Some helpful services include:
Stroller-friendly walkways
Nursing stations
Family restrooms
Play zones in some terminals (though not always in Airside 1)
Bring snacks, games, and activities for kids, as wait times and flights may get delayed during peak seasons.
Arrive Early – Give yourself at least 2 hours for domestic flights.
Download the Frontier App – Stay updated on gate changes and boarding alerts.
Pay for Bags in Advance – It’s cheaper to do this online during booking.
Use the APM Efficiently – Know that the tram is your only way to reach or leave Airside 1.
Travel Light – Frontier charges for carry-ons, so pack smartly.
Stay Hydrated – Bring an empty water bottle to fill after security.
Prepare for Security – Remove electronics and liquids in advance to speed up screening.
Avoid the Rush – Midweek flights tend to be less crowded than weekend ones.
Frontier Airlines operates out of Terminal A, specifically Airside 1 at Orlando International Airport.
Frontier recommends arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
Yes, TSA PreCheck is available at Terminal A. Make sure your PreCheck status is linked to your Frontier booking.
Yes, MCO offers free unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the airport, including Terminal A and Airside 1.
Yes, but it is cheaper to pay for checked baggage online when booking your flight. Airport check-in counters and kiosks are available.
Frontier does not operate its own lounge, and there is no shared lounge access for its passengers in Airside 1.
Head to Level 2 of Terminal A for baggage claim. For pickup, use the designated passenger pickup area on the ground level.
Navigating the MCO frontier terminal doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By familiarizing yourself with the terminal layout, check-in process, security procedures, and available amenities, you can travel smarter and more comfortably. Whether you’re flying out for business, vacation, or a weekend getaway, this guide gives you everything you need to make your time at MCO smooth and efficient.
So pack your bags, download your boarding pass, and get ready to fly—Orlando awaits!
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