Exploring the MCO Frontier Terminal: What You Need to Know for a Smooth Experience

When planning a trip through Orlando International Airport (MCO), knowing your terminal details can make all the difference. Among the many airlines operating at this bustling hub, Frontier Airlines is a popular budget-friendly choice for domestic and international travelers. If you’re flying with Frontier, understanding how the MCO frontier terminal works can save you time, reduce stress, and enhance your overall travel experience.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every essential detail you need to know about navigating the terminal, checking in, security, boarding, amenities, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or heading out on your first flight, this blog is your comprehensive companion for flying Frontier from Orlando.

Table of Contents
Introduction to Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Terminal Overview: Where Frontier Fits In

Check-In Process at the Frontier Terminal

Security Procedures and Wait Times

Boarding Process and Gate Locations

Amenities in the Terminal

Dining and Shopping Options

Lounges and Relaxation Areas

Transportation and Parking at MCO

Tips for Smooth Travel with Frontier

Accessibility Features

Traveling with Children

Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

1. Introduction to Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International Airport is Florida’s busiest airport and among the top 10 busiest airports in the U.S. It serves millions of passengers every year and offers a wide range of domestic and international routes. Its convenient location makes it a major gateway for tourists visiting Central Florida’s world-renowned theme parks, business travelers, and locals alike.

MCO consists of three main terminals—Terminals A, B, and C—each equipped to handle different airlines and services. The airport is known for its modern design, intuitive layout, and array of traveler amenities.

2. Terminal Overview: Where Frontier Fits In
Frontier Airlines operates out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport. The MCO frontier terminal is located in the northern half of the terminal complex, offering convenient access to the airline’s gates and check-in counters.

Terminal A handles a variety of domestic carriers and is often the first stop for travelers using budget airlines. While it’s one of the older terminals at MCO, it’s been updated to provide better service and a smoother passenger experience. The layout is easy to navigate, with plenty of signs directing travelers to baggage claim, ticket counters, security, and departure gates.

3. Check-In Process at the Frontier Terminal
When flying with Frontier Airlines, the check-in process is typically quick but requires some attention to detail. Frontier emphasizes self-service to streamline its operations and maintain low fares, so you’ll often find automated kiosks near the entrance of Terminal A.

Here’s what to expect:

Online Check-In: Recommended to avoid lines. Available 24 hours before departure.

Self-Service Kiosks: Print boarding passes, pay for baggage, and tag your own checked bags.

Baggage Drop: Once bags are tagged, proceed to the designated counter for drop-off.

Staff Assistance: Available for special needs, oversized items, or travel with pets.

Make sure to arrive at least two hours early, especially during busy travel periods.

4. Security Procedures and Wait Times
After check-in, you’ll proceed to the TSA security checkpoint. Terminal A has multiple checkpoints, and wait times can vary based on time of day and travel season. Early morning and weekend flights typically experience the highest volume.

MCO has implemented digital signage showing estimated wait times, helping passengers choose the quickest line. Clear signage, helpful staff, and efficient procedures generally keep things moving smoothly.

For quicker access:

Enroll in TSA PreCheck for expedited screening.

Have your boarding pass and ID ready.

Remove electronics and liquids from your carry-on if not using PreCheck.

5. Boarding Process and Gate Locations
After clearing security, you’ll head toward the departure gates. Frontier’s gates are usually located in Airside 1 of Terminal A. To get there, take the automated people mover (APM), a short monorail ride that connects the main terminal with airside concourses.

Frontier typically boards by group numbers, starting with passengers needing special assistance, followed by paid priority boarding, and then general boarding by zone.

Tips for smooth boarding:

Listen for announcements to avoid missing your group.

Have your boarding pass ready to scan.

Charge your phone beforehand, as outlets near the gates are limited.

6. Amenities in the Terminal
The MCO frontier terminal offers a decent selection of passenger amenities for those flying on a budget. While it may not have the high-end frills of Terminal C, it provides comfort and convenience for all travelers.

Amenities include:

Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal

Charging stations near select gates

Pet relief areas

Baby-changing stations

Water bottle refill stations

Clean restrooms and family-friendly facilities make the terminal accessible for travelers of all types.

7. Dining and Shopping Options
If you have time before your flight, Terminal A offers various options for a quick bite or some last-minute shopping. Food options range from grab-and-go snacks to sit-down meals.

Popular dining spots include:

Fast food chains like McDonald’s and Chick-fil-A

Coffee shops like Starbucks

Local options featuring regional cuisine

Shopping includes:

Convenience stores for travel essentials

Newsstands

Gift shops selling Orlando-themed souvenirs

Tech stores for headphones, chargers, and other accessories

8. Lounges and Relaxation Areas
Unlike some terminals, Terminal A does not have exclusive lounges for budget airlines. However, MCO has introduced some pay-per-use lounges open to all passengers. These lounges provide food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a quiet space to relax before boarding.

While Frontier does not offer lounge access, travelers can purchase a day pass to lounges in other terminal areas if they wish to escape the crowds.

9. Transportation and Parking at MCO
Getting to and from the airport is relatively simple, thanks to Orlando’s well-developed infrastructure. MCO provides multiple transportation and parking options to meet traveler needs.

Transportation choices:

Rideshares (Uber, Lyft)

Airport shuttles

Public transportation (Lynx bus service)

Taxis

Rental cars available in the terminal

Parking options:

Terminal garages (A, B, and C)

Economy lots with shuttle service

Valet and short-term parking

It’s wise to book parking in advance during peak travel seasons.

10. Tips for Smooth Travel with Frontier
Frontier is known for its à la carte pricing, meaning that things like seat selection, baggage, and snacks come at an extra charge. Here are some tips to make the most of your experience:

Pack Smart: Only personal items are free. Carry-ons and checked bags have fees.

Check In Early: Use the mobile app or website to check in 24 hours before.

Choose Your Seat: Consider upgrading if you want extra legroom or front-row seating.

Bring Snacks: In-flight snacks and drinks are not complimentary.

Arrive Early: Budget airlines often have stricter cutoffs for check-in and boarding.

11. Accessibility Features
MCO is ADA-compliant and offers various services to make travel easier for passengers with disabilities.

Available features include:

Wheelchair assistance

Visual paging for hearing-impaired travelers

Accessible restrooms

Service animal relief areas

Elevators and escalators for mobility access

Notify Frontier or airport staff in advance if you need specific accommodations.

12. Traveling with Children
Families will find Terminal A quite accommodating. Frontier also offers family-friendly options like priority boarding for those traveling with young children.

Family-friendly perks:

Changing tables in restrooms

Kids’ meals at dining outlets

Space to maneuver strollers

Kid-friendly shops and souvenirs

Allow extra time to get through security and reach the gate if traveling with small children.

13. Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation
Once you arrive back in Orlando, baggage claim is straightforward. Frontier’s luggage is usually available at Terminal A’s lower level, where baggage carousels are clearly marked.

From there, follow signs to:

Ground transportation

Rental car counters

Rideshare pickup areas

Shuttle and bus stops

Airport staff and signage help ensure a smooth exit from the terminal to your next destination.

14. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which terminal does Frontier Airlines use at MCO?
A: Frontier Airlines operates from Terminal A at Orlando International Airport.

Q: How early should I arrive at the terminal before my Frontier flight?
A: It’s recommended to arrive at least two hours before departure, especially if you need to check bags.

Q: Are there lounges available in the Frontier terminal at MCO?
A: While Frontier doesn’t have its own lounge, there are general-use lounges available throughout the airport for a fee.

Q: Can I bring a carry-on for free on Frontier?
A: Only a personal item is free; carry-on bags and checked luggage incur additional fees.

Q: Is Terminal A at MCO easy to navigate?
A: Yes, the layout is passenger-friendly, with signs and automated people movers to guide you.

15. Final Thoughts
Flying with Frontier Airlines from Orlando International Airport can be a smooth and budget-friendly experience when you’re prepared. The MCO frontier terminal offers all the essential amenities and services needed for a comfortable trip. With thoughtful planning—such as arriving early, packing smart, and understanding the airline’s policies—you can avoid stress and focus on the adventure ahead.

Whether you’re heading to a sunny destination or returning home after a magical Florida vacation, the Frontier terminal at MCO is equipped to help you make the journey seamless and enjoyable.