What You Should Know About Frontier Airlines at MCO Airport

Traveling through Orlando International Airport (MCO) can be both exciting and overwhelming. With millions of travelers passing through annually, understanding your airline’s terminal layout, services, and amenities can help make your journey smoother. If you're flying with Frontier Airlines, it's important to know what terminal Frontier Airlines is at MCO, how to navigate it, and what to expect during your time at the airport. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What Terminal Is Frontier Airlines at MCO?

Let’s answer the most important question first: What terminal is Frontier Airlines at MCO? Frontier Airlines operates out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO). More specifically, Frontier flights typically use Airside 1 gates within Terminal A.

Terminal A is located on the north side of the airport and houses several other domestic carriers as well. The terminal offers a wide array of passenger amenities, security checkpoints, shopping outlets, restaurants, and ground transportation services to accommodate travelers.

Terminal A Overview

Terminal A at MCO is one of the two main terminal complexes (Terminal A and Terminal B), both accessible from the same main terminal building. Here's what you can expect:

• Levels: Terminal A consists of several levels for baggage claim, ticketing, and gates.

• Airside 1 Gates: Frontier primarily operates from Airside 1, which is accessible via an Automated People Mover (APM).

• Transportation: Ground transportation services such as rental cars, shuttles, taxis, and rideshares are all accessible from Terminal A.

• Check-in & Baggage: Frontier’s check-in counters and baggage drop areas are located on Level 3 of Terminal A.

Frontier Airlines Check-in and Bag Drop at MCO

Arrive early if you're flying with Frontier, as the airline recommends arriving at least 2 hours before domestic departures and 3 hours for international flights. Here's how to check in:

• Self-Service Kiosks: Frontier encourages passengers to use self-service kiosks for check-in and baggage tag printing.

• Bag Drop Counters: After printing your bag tag, proceed to the designated bag drop counters.

• Mobile App: You can also check in through the Frontier mobile app and download your boarding pass digitally.

Always double-check the terminal monitors for any last-minute gate changes before heading to the Airside 1 shuttle.

Security Checkpoints at Terminal A

After completing check-in and bag drop, you’ll head to the TSA security checkpoint. MCO is a busy airport, especially during holidays and weekends, so plan for some wait time.

• TSA PreCheck: Available at Terminal A for eligible passengers.

• CLEAR Lanes: For travelers who are members of CLEAR, expedited security lanes are also available.

Once through security, you'll board the Automated People Mover to Airside 1, where your gate will be located.

Frontier Airlines Gates and Boarding

Most Frontier Airlines flights depart from Gates 1–29 in Airside 1. This concourse is well-equipped with comfortable seating, charging stations, and food options.

• Boarding Zones: Frontier boards passengers in groups based on seat selection and carry-on baggage.

• Flight Information: Check digital screens for gate assignments, departure times, and boarding updates.

• Gate Amenities: Some gates offer seating with USB outlets, workstations, and vending machines.

Dining and Shopping in Terminal A and Airside 1

While waiting for your Frontier flight, you’ll find a selection of dining and shopping options in Terminal A and Airside 1.

Dining Options:

• Zaza Cuban Comfort Food

• Chili’s Too

• Starbucks

• On the Border Express

• Burger King

• Le Grand Comptoir Wine Bar

Shopping Options:

• Hudson News – For books, snacks, and travel essentials

• Tech on the Go – Electronics and gadgets

• Universal Orlando and Disney Stores – For last-minute souvenirs

You can also grab a drink at one of the bars or pick up essentials like bottled water, chargers, or neck pillows before your flight.

Frontier Airlines Baggage Claim at MCO

If you’re arriving in Orlando on Frontier Airlines, your checked bags will be available at Baggage Claim on Level 2 of Terminal A.

• Monitors: Check the digital monitors to see which carousel your flight is assigned to.

• Lost Luggage: If your bag doesn’t arrive, head to the Frontier baggage service office nearby.

Make sure to keep your baggage claim tag handy in case of any disputes or lost items.

Ground Transportation from Terminal A

Once you collect your bags, you’ll find a wide range of ground transportation options at your disposal from Terminal A:

• Rideshare Pickup Zones (Uber, Lyft, etc.)

• Rental Car Services (accessible via Level 1)

• Shuttles and Buses

• Taxis

• Hotel Courtesy Vans

If you're planning to rent a car, most major agencies like Alamo, Hertz, and Enterprise are located on Level 1 of Terminal A.

Parking Near Frontier Airlines Terminal

Whether you're dropping someone off or parking for a trip, MCO has several convenient options:

• Terminal Top Parking: Directly above Terminals A & B for short-term parking

• Parking Garage A: Closest long-term parking for Terminal A travelers

• Valet Parking: Available at the terminal entrance

• Economy Lots: With shuttle service to and from the terminal

Parking Garage A is your best bet for proximity to the Frontier check-in counters.

Tips for a Smooth Frontier Experience at MCO

Flying with Frontier is known for being cost-effective, but it requires preparation. Here are a few tips to make your trip through MCO hassle-free:

1. Download the Frontier App – Manage your booking, check flight status, and access your boarding pass.

2. Pay for Bags in Advance – It’s significantly cheaper than doing it at the airport.

3. Bring Snacks – Frontier is a low-cost airline, and snacks are not complimentary.

4. Charge Your Devices – Charging stations are available in the terminal and at some gates.

5. Know the Carry-on Rules – Frontier strictly enforces baggage sizes and fees.

Traveling With Kids or Special Needs?

MCO is a family-friendly airport, and Terminal A is equipped with amenities like:

• Family Restrooms

• Nursing Suites

• Accessible Facilities

• Wheelchair Assistance (arranged through your airline)

Frontier Airlines also accommodates passengers with disabilities—make sure to request special assistance at least 48 hours before your flight.

Frontier Destinations from Orlando (MCO)

Frontier Airlines serves a wide variety of destinations from MCO, including both domestic and international routes:

Popular Domestic Routes:

• Denver (DEN)

• Las Vegas (LAS)

• Atlanta (ATL)

• Philadelphia (PHL)

• Chicago (ORD)

• New York-LaGuardia (LGA)

International Destinations:

• Cancun, Mexico (CUN)

• San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)

• Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ)

With Orlando being a major hub for Frontier, you’ll find seasonal deals and expanding route options throughout the year.

Final Thoughts

Flying Frontier Airlines out of Orlando International Airport can be a breeze when you know what to expect. To quickly recap:

• What terminal is Frontier Airlines at MCO? – Terminal A, Airside 1

• Check-in is on Level 3, baggage claim on Level 2, and parking nearby at Garage A

• Airside 1 has great food, shopping, and relaxing spaces to unwind before boarding

• Be sure to arrive early, plan ahead for bags, and download the app for a smooth journey

Whether you’re flying for business, vacation, or a quick getaway, knowing your way around Terminal A will give you a head start on a stress-free travel day.