The NEW Reason You Need To Go To Orlando Airport EARLY Right Now

Spring Break has arrived for millions of Americans, meaning that travel is on the agenda. However, that also means long lines, big crowds, and extended waits at Orlando International Airport (MCO).

Air travel can be frustrating!

Given that it’s one of the busiest airports in the world, MCO is often slammed with crowds that affect everything from security lines to parking to even finding a spot to wait near a gate. Spring Break crowds only intensify these issues, though there are things you can do as a traveler to make things run as smoothly as possible.

According to MCO, the official spring break travel period for 2025 began on February 22nd and will last through April 6th. Over this 44-day period, the airport estimates that more than 7.4 million travelers will cycle through MCO. So, what can one do to try and mitigate long waits and crowd issues? Well, it’s smart to start with the 3 P’s:

Pack as lightly as possible, avoiding checking bags if you can.
Park using the airport’s reservation system for a guaranteed spot.
Plane — Give yourself plenty of time to get through security and to your plane by making sure you arrive at the airport early.

According to Kevin J. Thibault, Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, “This year, we are asking our travelers to remember the three Ps during this very busy Spring Break season.”

©MCO

There’s also a fourth P that Thibault didn’t mention: Plan. Travelers can track any potential delays with their flight by checking with their airlines, as well as using the Flight Status tracking page on the MCO website.

In addition to the P’s, passengers can also use the MCOReserve system to book a time slot to go through a TSA security checkpoint, lessening potential delays getting through security.

©Orlando International Airport (MCO)

While MCO does anticipate traffic to dip slightly following the end of the Spring Break period, approximately “0.37% as spring break ends two weeks before Easter, compared to last year.” However, given the busy summer ahead for the Orlando tourist market — specifically the May opening of Universal’s new Epic Universe — we would think that travelers should keep these tips in mind when traveling through MCO for the foreseeable future.

©TODAY

While Spring Break crowds at MCO can definitely slow things down, there are steps you can take to make your travel in and out of the airport as seamless as possible. Stay tuned to AllEars for more travel tips.