A Complete Guide to the MCO Frontier Terminal: What You Need to Know

1. Introduction to Orlando International Airport (MCO)

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary airport serving the central Florida region. With millions of travelers passing through every year, it's one of the busiest airports in the U.S. Known for its proximity to major tourist attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the Space Coast, MCO is a key hub for domestic and international travel.

MCO is a sprawling airport with multiple terminals and concourses, each serving a range of domestic and international carriers. As the airport grows, so does the number of flights from low-cost carriers like Frontier Airlines, leading to the increasing importance of the MCO Frontier Terminal.

2. Who is Frontier Airlines?

Before diving into the terminal specifics, let’s talk about the airline itself.

Frontier Airlines is a U.S.-based ultra-low-cost carrier known for offering budget-friendly fares across the country. With its hub in Denver, Frontier has grown significantly over the past decade and now serves over 100 destinations across the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean.

Its business model is centered on offering low base fares with optional add-ons. If you’re flying on a budget and okay with fewer frills, Frontier is one of the most cost-effective ways to travel. Due to its growing popularity, Frontier has expanded its operations at MCO, making the MCO Frontier Terminal a focal point of its East Coast operations.

3. Overview of the MCO Frontier Terminal

The MCO Frontier Terminal is located within Orlando International Airport’s Terminal A. Frontier primarily operates out of Gates 1-29 in Concourse A, which is in the northern part of the airport. Terminal A serves several other airlines as well, including JetBlue, Aer Lingus, Avianca, and Southwest, but Frontier has a strong presence here with dozens of daily departures.

The MCO Frontier Terminal is designed to handle a high volume of budget travelers, with efficient check-in kiosks, streamlined security lanes, and a variety of dining and shopping options. Though not luxurious, it offers everything you need for a comfortable and affordable travel experience.

4. Terminal Location and Access

The MCO Frontier Terminal is part of Terminal A, which can be accessed easily from the main airport entrance. Orlando International Airport is well-signed, and once you enter the terminal area, you’ll find clear indicators for Terminal A departures and arrivals.

After checking in at the Frontier counters, you’ll proceed through TSA security to reach the Airside 1 concourse, which is where most of the MCO Frontier Terminal gates are located. You’ll need to take an automated people mover (tram) to reach the gate area, so allow time for the ride.

Quick Tip:

Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to allow time for check-in, bag drop, TSA screening, and tram transportation to your gate.

5. Check-In Process and Security

One of the most important parts of your journey through the MCO Frontier Terminal is the check-in process. Frontier Airlines emphasizes self-service check-in, so you’ll find numerous kiosks in the terminal where you can check in, pay for bags, and print boarding passes.

You can also check in via the Frontier mobile app up to 24 hours before your flight. If you have checked baggage, you’ll need to use the baggage drop counter, which is usually staffed efficiently even during peak hours.

TSA Screening

Security screening at the MCO Frontier Terminal is handled by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). Wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and season. Mornings are typically the busiest due to the volume of early departures.

MCO also offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes, which can help expedite the process.

6. Gates and Flight Operations

Once you’ve passed security and taken the tram to Airside 1, you’ll arrive at the concourse serving the MCO Frontier Terminal. Gates 1–29 are commonly used by Frontier, but gate assignments may vary depending on flight volume and time of day.

Frontier Airlines serves a wide variety of destinations from MCO, including:

• New York (LGA, JFK)

• Philadelphia (PHL)

• Atlanta (ATL)

• Chicago (ORD, MDW)

• Las Vegas (LAS)

• Denver (DEN)

• San Juan (SJU)

• Cancun (CUN)

Due to its extensive network from Orlando, Frontier’s presence at the MCO Frontier Terminal is a key part of the airport’s operations.

7. Dining and Shopping Options

The MCO Frontier Terminal isn’t known for luxury, but it still offers a decent selection of food and shopping to keep you satisfied before your flight.

Dining Options:

Some notable dining spots include:

• Cask & Larder Public House – Southern-inspired food and craft beer

• Einstein Bros. Bagels – Great for a quick breakfast

• On The Border – Tex-Mex favorites

• Zaza Cuban Café – Authentic Cuban coffee and snacks

Shopping:

If you want to grab something for your flight or a last-minute souvenir, check out:

• Hudson News – Magazines, snacks, and travel essentials

• Magic of Disney Store – For themed gifts and park merchandise

• Sunglass Hut – Designer sunglasses and accessories

There’s enough variety to keep both kids and adults entertained while waiting at the MCO Frontier Terminal.

8. Transportation to and from the Terminal

Orlando International Airport is well-connected to the surrounding region, and the MCO Frontier Terminal is accessible by multiple forms of transportation.

Options include:

• Rental Cars: Rental car agencies are located on-site, just a short walk from the terminal.

• Rideshares: Uber and Lyft are available with designated pick-up zones.

• Taxis: Available 24/7 outside of Terminal A.

• Shuttles and Hotel Transfers: Many local hotels offer complimentary airport shuttles.

• SunRail: A nearby commuter train that connects the airport to downtown Orlando and other areas (via shuttle transfer).

If you’re driving yourself, parking is available in several lots, including Economy, Garage A, and Terminal Top Parking. Signs clearly indicate directions to Terminal A and the MCO Frontier Terminal.

9. Tips for a Smooth Experience at the MCO Frontier Terminal

Here are some traveler-tested tips for making your experience at the MCO Frontier Terminal smoother:

1. Check in Online: Save time by checking in using the Frontier mobile app.

2. Arrive Early: Especially during holidays or weekends.

3. Pack Smart: Be aware of Frontier’s baggage policies to avoid extra fees.

4. Use TSA PreCheck: Speeds up your time through security.

5. Stay Charged: Bring a portable charger—while charging stations are available, they can be limited during peak hours.

6. Download Entertainment: Frontier doesn’t offer in-flight Wi-Fi or seatback entertainment.

7. Grab Food Before Boarding: In-flight offerings are limited and not complimentary.

10. Future Developments at the MCO Frontier Terminal

Orlando International Airport continues to grow, and with it, so does Frontier’s footprint. While the MCO Frontier Terminal currently operates out of Terminal A, there are discussions about expanding gates and improving infrastructure to accommodate more budget carriers.

Additionally, MCO’s new Terminal C (mostly serving international and JetBlue flights as of now) may eventually help offload some of the passenger traffic from Terminals A and B, improving the experience for MCO Frontier Terminal travelers.

11. FAQs About the MCO Frontier Terminal

Q: What terminal is Frontier at MCO?

A: Frontier Airlines operates primarily out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport.

Q: What gates does Frontier use at MCO?

A: Gates 1–29, primarily located in Airside 1.

Q: How early should I arrive at the MCO Frontier Terminal?

A: It’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight for domestic travel.

Q: Is there a lounge in the MCO Frontier Terminal?

A: Frontier Airlines does not operate lounges. However, Terminal A includes common-use lounges like The Club MCO (near Gate 91, farther from the Frontier gates).

Q: Can I bring food through TSA?

A: Yes, you can bring snacks and non-liquid food items through security.

12. Conclusion

Traveling through the MCO Frontier Terminal offers a no-frills, budget-conscious way to explore Orlando and beyond. While it may not have the glitz of premium international terminals, it is functional, efficient, and traveler-friendly when you plan accordingly.

With clear signage, helpful staff, and plenty of nearby amenities, the MCO Frontier Terminal is a great launching point for your next adventure. Whether you're heading to a sunny beach in Florida or catching a connection to a big city, you’ll find that flying Frontier from MCO can be a surprisingly smooth experience.

So pack your bags, check your flight status, and get ready to fly with confidence from the MCO Frontier Terminal!