Flying with Southwest Airlines from Orlando International Airport (MCO)? Knowing your terminal before arriving at the airport can save time and make your journey much easier. Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal A at MCO, with its current airport information listing Southwest’s operations around Gates 101–110 and 120–129.
Terminal A provides Southwest passengers with check-in, baggage services, TSA security, departure gates, dining, shopping, Wi-Fi, charging facilities, ground transportation, parking, accessibility services, and connections to MCO’s Gate Link system.
MCO is also undergoing Gate Link replacement work in 2026. Construction is affecting the area serving Gates 100–129, so Southwest passengers should allow additional time and follow current airport signs and announcements.
This guide explains everything you need to know about the Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal, including Terminal A, the terminal map, check-in, baggage, security, gates, services, Gate Link, parking, transportation, accessibility, current construction updates, and frequently asked questions.
Southwest Airlines at Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Southwest Airlines is one of the major airlines operating at Orlando International Airport.
MCO currently lists Southwest in Terminal A. Southwest’s own airport information lists Gates 101–110 and 120–129 for its Orlando operations.
Passengers should always check their individual flight information before leaving for the airport because gate assignments and airport operations can change.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal – Quick Overview
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Airline | Southwest Airlines |
| IATA Code | WN |
| Airport | Orlando International Airport |
| Airport Code | MCO |
| Southwest Main Terminal | Terminal A |
| Terminal Name | MCO Terminal A |
| Location | Orlando, Florida |
| Southwest Gate Areas | 101–110, 120–129 |
| Security/Gate Complex | 70–129 |
| Airport Type | International Airport |
| Check-In | Terminal A |
| TSA PreCheck | Available |
| Wi-Fi | Available |
| Gate Link | Available |
| Airport Map | https://flymco.com/terminal-maps/ |
What Terminal Is Southwest Airlines at MCO?
Southwest Airlines primarily operates from Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Passengers departing on Southwest should generally start their journey at Terminal A and follow airport signs toward the Southwest check-in area.
Southwest’s current Orlando airport information lists Gates 101–110 and 120–129. However, MCO’s airline directory uses the broader 70–129 security and gate complex for Southwest.
Because gate assignments can change, passengers should check their Southwest boarding pass, Southwest app, flight-status information, and MCO airport monitors before traveling.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Map
The MCO Terminal Map is useful for locating Southwest check-in, baggage claim, TSA security, gates, transportation facilities, restaurants, shops, and other airport services.
Important locations around Terminal A include:
- Southwest check-in
- Baggage claim
- TSA security
- Gates
- Gate Link
- Restaurants
- Shops
- Restrooms
- Elevators
- Escalators
- Service animal relief areas
- Ground transportation
- Rental car facilities
- Parking
- Taxi areas
- Bus stops
- Rideshare pickup areas
MCO’s official terminal map can help passengers find their specific check-in area, gate, transportation connection, and other facilities.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Gates
Southwest’s current airport information lists the following gate areas:
| Gate Area | Southwest Information |
|---|---|
| Gates 101–110 | Southwest flights |
| Gates 120–129 | Southwest flights |
MCO’s airport directory also identifies Southwest within the broader 70–129 security and gate complex.
Gate assignments are not guaranteed and can change because of aircraft changes, weather, airport operations, or other circumstances. Always check the airport departure screens before heading to your gate.
Gates 100–129 and Gate Link
Passengers traveling to Gates 100–129 use MCO’s Gate Link system to reach the appropriate gate area.
Because the Gate Link system is currently undergoing replacement work in 2026, some passengers may experience additional travel time or be directed to shuttle buses during certain overnight periods.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Services
Terminal A provides a wide range of services for Southwest passengers.
| Service | Availability | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Southwest Check-In | Yes | Airport check-in facilities |
| Baggage Services | Yes | Bag check and baggage claim |
| TSA Security | Yes | Passenger screening |
| TSA PreCheck | Yes | Available |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | Airport Wi-Fi |
| Charging Stations | Yes | Passenger charging facilities |
| Restaurants | Yes | Dining options |
| Shopping | Yes | Retail and travel essentials |
| Restrooms | Yes | Throughout terminal |
| Service Animal Relief | Yes | Designated areas |
| Ground Transportation | Yes | Taxi, buses, shuttles and rideshare |
| Rental Cars | Yes | Airport rental facilities |
| Parking | Yes | Airport parking |
| Accessibility | Yes | Accessible facilities |
| Gate Link | Yes | Connects terminal and gate areas |
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Check-In
Southwest passengers departing from MCO should generally begin at Terminal A.
Passengers can complete available check-in through the Southwest website or mobile app. Southwest online check-in generally becomes available 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Passengers with checked luggage should allow enough time for baggage drop before proceeding to TSA security.
A typical airport journey is:
MCO Airport → Terminal A → Southwest Check-In → Bag Drop → TSA Security → Gate Link → Gate
Southwest currently recommends arriving approximately 120 minutes before departure at MCO.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Departures
Southwest departures at MCO are handled through Terminal A.
After checking in and dropping off baggage, follow signs toward the TSA security checkpoint serving the Southwest gate complex.
After security, check the airport monitors for your assigned gate.
If your flight departs from Gates 100–129, follow signs for the Gate Link system and proceed to your assigned gate area.
Because Gate Link construction is ongoing in 2026, allow additional time for transportation to the gate.
How Early Should I Arrive at MCO for Southwest Airlines?
Southwest currently recommends arriving 120 minutes before departure at Orlando International Airport.
Additional time may be useful during:
- Early-morning departures
- Friday and Sunday travel
- Holiday periods
- Spring break
- Summer travel
- School vacation periods
- International trips
- Heavy traffic periods
- Airport construction
Your airport journey may include:
Traffic → Parking → Terminal → Check-In → Bag Drop → TSA → Gate Link → Walking → Boarding
Arriving early can help reduce stress if security lines, traffic, or airport transportation take longer than expected.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Arrivals
Southwest arrivals at MCO generally use Terminal A.
After your aircraft arrives, follow airport signs toward baggage claim or your connecting gate.
Passengers with checked luggage should proceed to baggage claim and check the airport monitors for their assigned baggage carousel.
MCO’s Terminal A baggage claim facilities are located on Level 2.
Passengers meeting a Southwest traveler should remember that additional time may be needed for the passenger to leave the gate area, collect baggage, and reach the pickup area.
Southwest Airlines Baggage at MCO Terminal
Southwest passengers arriving at MCO with checked luggage should follow signs to baggage claim.
If your luggage is delayed, damaged, or missing:
- Keep your baggage receipt.
- Note your flight number.
- Contact Southwest baggage service.
- Report the issue as soon as possible.
- Keep your baggage reference number.
- Follow Southwest’s instructions for delayed or damaged baggage.
Passengers checking luggage should also allow sufficient time before departure to meet Southwest’s baggage-drop deadline.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Security
Passengers departing from MCO must complete TSA security screening before reaching the departure gates.
Southwest’s MCO operation is associated with the 70–129 security and gate complex.
Security wait times can vary depending on:
- Passenger volume
- Time of day
- Day of week
- Holidays
- TSA staffing
- Weather
- Airport operations
TSA PreCheck is available for eligible passengers.
After passing through security, check the departure monitors again before proceeding to the gate.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Lounges
Southwest does not operate a dedicated Southwest-branded lounge at Orlando International Airport.
Passengers can, however, find restaurants, seating areas, shops, charging facilities, and other passenger amenities throughout the MCO terminal complex.
If you have access to another airport lounge through an eligible membership or credit card, check the lounge’s current location and access requirements before traveling.
Food and Restaurants at Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal
MCO Terminal A provides passengers with a variety of food and dining options.
Travelers can find options for:
- Breakfast
- Coffee
- Snacks
- Grab-and-go meals
- Fast food
- Sit-down dining
- Drinks
- Travel snacks
During busy travel periods, consider getting food before heading to the gate so you have enough time for boarding.
Shopping at Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal
Passengers traveling through MCO Terminal A can find shopping options for:
- Travel essentials
- Snacks
- Gifts
- Personal items
- Electronics accessories
- Magazines
- Last-minute purchases
Orlando’s airport also provides retail options suited to visitors traveling to and from the area’s major attractions.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Gate Link
Gate Link is an important part of navigating Orlando International Airport.
Passengers traveling to the 100–129 gate area use the airport’s automated transportation system to reach their departure gate.
A typical journey is:
Terminal A → TSA Security → Gate Link → Gate Area → Southwest Flight
Passengers should follow airport signs and announcements because Gate Link operations can change during construction.
2026 Gate Link Construction
MCO is currently replacing the Gate Link system serving the 70–129 gate areas.
Construction is affecting the Gates 100–129 area, which includes Southwest’s current operating gates.
During certain overnight periods, shuttle buses may be used instead of the normal Gate Link service.
Passengers should allow additional time and follow MCO’s temporary signs and directions.
Your Journey at MCO Airport
Where Do I Go?
Terminal A
For most Southwest departures at MCO, start at Terminal A.
What Do I Do Next?
Check in with Southwest
Complete online or app check-in when available, or use Southwest’s airport check-in facilities.
Where Do I Drop My Bag?
Southwest baggage/check-in area
If you have checked luggage, complete the bag-drop process before going through TSA security.
Where Is Security?
TSA Security
Follow signs for the Southwest gate complex after check-in and baggage drop.
How Do I Find My Gate?
Check your Southwest boarding pass and MCO airport monitors.
Your gate can change, so check the screens again after security.
How Do I Get to Gates 100–129?
Follow signs for the Gate Link system and proceed to your assigned gate area.
During certain overnight construction periods, passengers may be directed to shuttle buses.
Where Can I Eat or Relax?
MCO offers restaurants, shops, seating areas, Wi-Fi, charging facilities, and other passenger amenities.
What If My Bag Is Lost?
Contact Southwest baggage service and keep your baggage receipt and flight information available.
What If My Flight Is Delayed or Cancelled?
Check your Southwest flight status through the Southwest app or website and monitor MCO airport screens for operational updates.
What If I Have a Connecting Flight?
Follow the signs and instructions for your next gate.
If your connection requires another terminal or gate area, use MCO’s appropriate transportation system and allow enough time for the transfer.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Parking
Orlando International Airport offers several parking options for travelers.
Passengers driving to MCO should allow additional time for:
- Traffic
- Parking
- Walking or shuttle transportation
- Check-in
- Baggage drop
- TSA security
- Gate Link transportation
Because airport construction is ongoing, passengers should check current airport information before traveling.
For passenger pickup, drivers should use the designated airport pickup areas and avoid leaving vehicles unattended at terminal curbs.
MCO also provides cell phone waiting areas for drivers waiting for arriving passengers.
Ground Transportation from Southwest Airlines Terminal at MCO
Passengers arriving at Terminal A have several transportation options.
Rideshare
Uber, Lyft, and other approved rideshare services operate at MCO through designated pickup areas. Follow current airport signs for the appropriate rideshare location.
Taxi
Authorized taxi services are available from designated airport taxi areas.
Rental Cars
MCO provides rental car facilities for passengers renting vehicles after arrival.
Lynx Bus
Public bus transportation is available from Orlando International Airport through Lynx.
Resort Transportation
Passengers traveling to Orlando hotels and resorts can use designated hotel, resort, and shuttle transportation services.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal Accessibility
MCO provides accessibility services for passengers who require additional assistance.
Passengers who need wheelchair assistance or other airline-specific support should arrange assistance with Southwest before traveling whenever possible.
Accessible facilities at MCO include:
- Accessible restrooms
- Elevators
- Accessible transportation
- Wheelchair assistance
- Service animal relief areas
- Accessible terminal facilities
Passengers should contact Southwest in advance if they require special assistance during their journey.
Southwest Airlines MCO Terminal – Latest Update 2026
One of the most important current developments for Southwest passengers at MCO is the Gate Link Replacement Project.
MCO is replacing the Gate Link infrastructure serving the 70–129 gate areas.
Construction is currently affecting the Gates 100–129 area, which includes Southwest’s current operating area.
During certain overnight periods, shuttle buses may replace the normal Gate Link service.
Passengers traveling through MCO should therefore:
- Arrive early.
- Follow temporary airport signs.
- Allow extra time for Gate Link transportation.
- Check the Southwest app.
- Check MCO airport monitors.
- Listen for airport announcements.
- Confirm the gate before leaving the terminal.
Important Tips for Southwest Airlines Passengers at MCO
- Start at Terminal A for Southwest flights.
- Check your flight information before leaving for the airport.
- Arrive approximately 120 minutes before departure.
- Complete online check-in when available.
- Allow enough time for baggage drop.
- Check your gate after TSA security.
- Follow signs for Gates 100–129 if applicable.
- Allow additional time because of Gate Link construction.
- Be prepared for shuttle buses during certain overnight periods.
- Keep your baggage receipt until you reach your destination.
- Arrange accessibility assistance before traveling if needed.
- Check airport monitors for last-minute changes.
- Follow current rideshare and pickup instructions.
- Check Southwest’s flight status before leaving for the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Yes. Southwest’s current MCO airport information identifies Terminal A for its Orlando operations.
Southwest currently lists Gates 101–110 and 120–129 for its Orlando operations. Gate assignments can change, so passengers should check their boarding pass and airport monitors.
MCO’s airport directory places Southwest within the broader 70–129 security and gate complex, while Southwest’s own current airport page specifically lists Gates 101–110 and 120–129. Travelers should follow their individual flight assignment.
Southwest currently recommends arriving approximately 120 minutes before departure at MCO.
Yes. TSA PreCheck is available for eligible passengers at MCO.
Southwest does not operate a dedicated Southwest-branded lounge at Orlando International Airport.
Yes. Passengers traveling to the 100–129 gate area use the Gate Link system. During certain construction periods, shuttle buses may be used instead.
Yes. MCO is currently replacing the Gate Link system serving the 70–129 gate areas, including the area around Gates 100–129.
Southwest’s airport information indicates that its ticket counter opens approximately 120 minutes before the first departing flight.
Southwest’s current airport information states that checked bags must be presented at least 45 minutes before scheduled departure at MCO. International itineraries may have different requirements.
Yes. MCO provides designated rideshare pickup areas. Follow current airport signs for the appropriate pickup location.
Check your Southwest flight status through the Southwest app or website and monitor MCO airport screens. Contact Southwest for applicable rebooking or travel assistance.
Final Thoughts
For most travelers, the most important thing to remember is simple:
Southwest Airlines at MCO → Terminal A
Southwest passengers can access check-in, baggage services, TSA security, dining, shopping, Wi-Fi, charging facilities, ground transportation, and Gate Link connections through the MCO Terminal A complex.
Southwest’s current airport information lists Gates 101–110 and 120–129, while MCO’s airline directory identifies Southwest within the broader 70–129 security and gate complex.
The ongoing 2026 Gate Link replacement project is an important consideration for Southwest passengers. Construction can affect transportation to the gate area, particularly around Gates 100–129 and during certain overnight periods.
For a smoother Southwest journey, remember:
MCO → Terminal A → Check-In → Bag Drop → TSA → Gate Link → Southwest Gate → Flight