9 Unspoken Rules for Going Through TSA at the Orlando Airport

Our team of Orlando International Airport experts is here to help make your next trip through the airport as seamless as possible!

During our many visits to the airport, we’ve come up with several rules that make traveling through Orlando International Airport (MCO) easier — including some security tips that could seriously help you the next time you’re at MCO!

Utilize TSA PreCheck and CLEAR+

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR+ both help you blitz through the airport security process for a price.

TSA PreCheck is government-run and allows travelers to go through a separate line with a more relaxed screening process, as you don’t need to remove shoes, belts, and light jackets. Laptops and liquids are also allowed to stay in your carry-on.

PreCheck costs about $85 for a 5-year membership.

CLEAR+ is privately owned and uses biometrics to allow you to bypass the general security line. Members can visit a CLEAR kiosk, verify their identity, and then get escorted to the front of the security screening. A membership costs $199 per year. 

Often, folks will pair BOTH of these memberships to make the airport experience super easy.

Use MCO Reserve

MCO Reserve is a FREE service exclusive to the Orlando International Airport that allows you to pre-register for a time slot to go through security.

This service can be accessed from 5 AM to 5 PM daily if your flight is between 6:30 AM and 8:30 PM. MCO Reserve is NOT available for Clear+ or TSA PreCheck passengers.

Arrive 2 Hours Before Your Flight

If you don’t plan on using any sort of fancy security service and are flying domestically, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight. This way, you can account for long TSA lines.

For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before the flight.

Go Right

If your flight is in Gates 1 through 59, we recommend going right to the security checkpoint on the right.

For these gates, the line on the right has security dogs and generally moves a little faster.

Don’t Underestimate Morning Crowds

If you think that flying a morning red-eye means you’ll skip right on through the security line, you’re sorely mistaken.

TSA can be understaffed before 6 AM, which ultimately means longer lines. Also keep in mind that Orlando is the theme park capital of the world — the airport is ALWAYS going to be busy.

Avoid the Gatelink

If you’re going on through to Gates 70 through 129, don’t take the Gatelink that goes to the international terminals.

If you make this mistake, you will have to tram back and go through security twice.

Check the MCO App

When in doubt, check the MCO app!

The app provides information like food options and security wait times, giving you a full grasp on what to expect at the airport.

Bring a Backup Phone Charger

We’ve actually had instances where we were checking our phone so much before going through security that it died and needed to be charged!

That’s where a portable charger comes in handy. It’s generally a good idea to travel with one of these, as you never truly know when you might desperately need one.

Be Aware That Terminals A and B Are Connected

As a heads up, Terminals A and B are connected at MCO.

What are some of your favorite MCO tips? Let us know and continue to follow us at AllEars for all the latest Orlando travel tips!

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