Orlando Airport Security Wait Times: Everything You Need to Know Before You Fly

One of the first things you want to know if you are flying out of Orlando is how long you'll be waiting in line for security check. One thing no one wants is to miss their flight due to insufficient time at the security check. No one wants to arrive four hours before time and sit at the gate for hours doing nothing.

This guide explains everything you need to know about the Orlando airport security wait times, when lines are short, when they're long, how to get through faster, and how to do so in order to get your trip off to a great start.

A Quick Look at MCO - Orlando International Airport

MCO, the Orlando International Airport, is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It welcomes millions of visitors annually, from families on their way to Disney World, theme park enthusiasts, business travelers and visitors from around the world.

MCO security wait times can be quite variable, due to MCO being so busy. On a slow Tuesday morning you may get through it in less than 10 minutes. During a hectic holiday weekend, you may be faced with 45 minutes or longer. There are many things that you will be able to avoid stressing about if you know what to expect before you go.

How Long Are Orlando Airport Security Wait Times?

Let's talk numbers. As to the Orlando International Airport security wait times, here's a general idea of what travelers may expect:

• Best case (off-peak hours, slow days): 5 to 15 minutes
• Average on a normal day: 20 to 35 minutes
• Busy periods (holidays, weekends, mornings): 45 minutes to over 1 hour

These are rough averages. The wait time at Orlando airport security can change based on the time of day, the day of the week, the season, and even the specific checkpoint you use.

The TSA has a tool they call MyTSA (also available on their website as an app) that will display real-time estimated wait times for MCO TSA. It is a wonderful tool to consult prior to going to the airport.

What Affects MCO TSA Wait Times?

1. Time of Day

This is one of the largest factors. Here's the breakdown of Orlando airport wait times during the day:

• Early mornings (4:00 AM – 7:00 AM): There are long lines as many flights leave early. It's a window with lots of traffic.
• Mid-morning (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Still fairly busy. Moderate to long wait times.
• Late mornings to early afternoon (10:00 AM to 2:00 PM): Lines tend to get lighter. This is often a time when it is easier to get through security.
• Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM): May become busy again with afternoon flights resuming.
• Evening (5:00 PM – 8:00 PM): Another rush period. Lines can build up.
• Late night (after 8:00 PM): Usually quiet, it depends on the late departure.

2. Day of the Week

The worst times for wait times at MCO are often on weekends, particularly on Sundays. Morning Mondays can also be a challenge. The best days to travel are mid-week, such as Tuesday and Wednesday.

3. Time of Year

Orlando is a year-round tourist destination meaning that MCO is busy nearly all the time. But there are times of year that are particularly busy:

• Spring Break (March – April): Very busy. Expect long lines.
• Summer (June – August): Very busy, particularly on Fridays and Sundays.
• Travel Thanksgiving week: One of the busiest travel weeks of the year, across the country.
• Christmas/New Year's: On the go. Allow additional time at MCO security.
• January and February: A little less activity but still calm.

4. Which Security Checkpoint You Use

There are several terminals and several security checkpoints in MCO. They don't all have the same wait times. The wait time at MCO security can vary from one checkpoint to another, depending on the airline and terminal where your gate is located.

MCO Airport Terminals and Security Checkpoints

MCO's two primary airside areas are called Airside A and Airside B, both linked to the main building. There are also newer facilities under Terminal C, including Brightline and other airlines added in recent years.

There are separate security checkpoints on each airside. Knowing which MCO airport security checkpoint your airline is affiliated with when checking wait times can be helpful:

• Airside A: Used by airlines like Southwest Airlines
• Airside B: Used by airlines like Delta, American, United, and others
• Terminal C: A newer facility with its own separate security checkpoint

Always check your boarding pass and the airport's website to confirm your terminal before heading to security.

How to Get Through Security Faster at MCO

Good news, there are real ways to cut down your security wait time at MCO. Here are the most effective ones:

Sign Up for TSA PreCheck

This is the single best thing you can do to reduce your MCO TSA wait time. With TSA PreCheck, you get to use a dedicated, much shorter lane. You also don't have to take off your shoes, remove your laptop, or take out your liquids. The process is faster and much less annoying.

• Cost: $85 for 5 years (about $17 per year)
• Application: Online at the TSA website, then a quick in-person appointment
• Processing time: Usually a few weeks

If you fly even a few times a year, TSA PreCheck is absolutely worth it.

Apply for CLEAR

CLEAR is a separate program that uses biometric data, your fingerprints and eyes, to verify your identity. Instead of waiting in line to show your ID, a CLEAR agent walks you straight to the front of the ID check line.

CLEAR works best when combined with TSA PreCheck. Together, they can get you through security in just a few minutes, even on busy days.

• Cost: Around $189 per year (discounts available for some credit card holders and Delta SkyMiles members)

Arrive at the Right Time

As mentioned above, mid-morning to early afternoon tends to have shorter lines. If you have flexibility in your flight time, booking a mid-day departure can help you avoid peak Orlando airport TSA wait times.

Pack Smart

Believe it or not, how you pack your bag affects how fast you get through security. Here are some quick tips:

• Keep your liquids in a clear zip-lock bag and place it on top of your carry-on for easy access
• Put your laptop in an easy-to-reach spot so you can pull it out quickly
• Wear shoes that slip on and off easily
• Avoid wearing lots of metal (belts, jewelry, watches) if possible
• Don't pack prohibited items, this seems obvious but it causes a lot of delays

Use the MyTSA App

The MyTSA app is free and available on both iPhone and Android. It shows estimated MCO security wait times and can help you decide when to head to the checkpoint. It also lets you check whether specific items are allowed through security, so you don't get surprised at the checkpoint.

Check In Online and Use Digital Boarding Passes

While this doesn't directly affect the security line, having your boarding pass ready on your phone means you are not fumbling around at the last minute. Every second counts when lines are long.

How Early Should You Arrive at MCO?

This is one of the most common questions travelers ask. Here are the general guidelines for Orlando International Airport wait times and arrival times:

• Domestic flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure
• International flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure
• During peak seasons or holidays: Add an extra 30 to 60 minutes

If you have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR, you can comfortably arrive closer to the 90-minute mark for domestic flights. But if you don't, play it safe and aim for 2 hours, especially during busy periods.

Real Traveler Tips for MCO Security

Here are some extra tips based on common traveler experiences at MCO:

• Go to the less-busy checkpoint if you can. If your airline allows access to more than one checkpoint, take a look at the lines before you commit.
• Avoid checking your luggage at the last minute. If you're dropping a bag, budget extra time for that too.
• Watch out for large groups. School trips, sports teams, and tour groups can clog up security fast. If you see a big group ahead of you, ask an agent if there's another lane open.
• Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to track your gate changes. MCO can be large and confusing. Knowing exactly where you need to go saves time.
• Grab food or coffee after security. MCO has great dining options past the checkpoint. You'll have more time to enjoy them if you get through security early.

Orlando Airport Security Tips for Families

If you're traveling with kids, budget extra time. Families with strollers, car seats, and little ones take longer at security checkpoints. Collapsible strollers can go through the X-ray machine, but you will need to fold them up. Formula, breast milk, and juice boxes are allowed through in reasonable quantities.

Some MCO checkpoints have family lanes, look for signs when you arrive or ask a TSA officer to point you in the right direction.

Final Thoughts on Orlando Airport Security Wait Times

MCO is a big, busy airport, and that means Orlando airport security wait times can be unpredictable if you don't plan ahead. The good news is that with a little preparation, you can make the whole experience much smoother.

Here's a quick recap:

• Check the MyTSA app for real-time MCO TSA wait times before you leave
• Enroll in TSA PreCheck (and consider CLEAR) for the fastest experience
• Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights, more during busy seasons
• Travel mid-week and mid-day when possible to avoid peak lines
• Pack smart and keep your documents ready

At Cheap Fare Freak, we want your travel experience to be as stress-free as possible, from the moment you book your ticket to the moment you land. Planning ahead for security is one of the easiest ways to start your trip on a good note.

Safe travels and smooth skies!