How long does it take to get through security at MCO airport?

Current Average TSA Wait Time at MCO This average wait time is based on the current time (Pacific Standard Time). Please expect to wait up to at least (11 mins) on average to go through security checkpoints at MCO.



Security wait times at Orlando International Airport (MCO) are notoriously unpredictable due to the high volume of families and travelers unfamiliar with TSA procedures. On average, standard security lines take between 20 and 45 minutes, but during peak holiday seasons (Spring Break, Christmas) or early morning "rush hours," wait times can easily exceed 60 minutes. In 2026, MCO has several tools to help mitigate this: MCO Reserve is a free service that allows you to book a specific time slot to go through security, effectively bypassing the main queue. TSA PreCheck users typically experience much shorter waits, often under 10 minutes. The airport is divided into three terminals (A, B, and C); Terminal C generally has the most modern screening technology and slightly more consistent flow. The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority recommends arriving at the security checkpoint at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one. Travelers can check real-time wait times on the MCO official website or the "MyTSA" app before heading to the airport.

People Also Ask

If your flight is between 6:30am & 8:30pm, book a timeslot to go through security, scan your reservation, and wait in an exclusive, shorter lane for free! You can reserve your spot in security 72 hours before your flight. We suggest getting it as soon as you can because those spots are limited and can fill up quickly.

MORE DETAILS

General Departure Delays: Traffic is experiencing gate hold and taxi delays lasting 15 minutes or less. General Arrival Delays: Arrival traffic is experiencing airborne delays of 15 minutes or less.

MORE DETAILS

In Standard Screening Lane
  • Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin.
  • Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on).
  • Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.


MORE DETAILS

Masks are no longer required at Orlando International Airport and its facilities. Face Mask Update: TSA will no longer enforce Security Directives and Emergency Amendment requiring mask use on public transportation and transportation hubs. Face masks are now optional in our airport and facilities.

MORE DETAILS

The airport designator code “MCO” comes from the former McCoy Air Force Base, named after Colonel Michael N. W. McCoy, on which site, located at -81.08W 28.96 N, and at 113 feet (34 meters) above sea level, Orlando International Airport now stands. Can I get a temporary disabled parking permit while in Orlando?

MORE DETAILS

Orlando International Airport is experiencing a record-breaking year as several days in 2023 has become the airport's top 10 busiest days. Airport officials announced that MCO recorded its busiest day in history on March 11 when there were 95,287 departing passengers.

MORE DETAILS

MCO ranks as the No. 1 busiest airport in the state of Florida.

MORE DETAILS

When you're traveling within the United States, we make the suggestion to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to departure. For most airports, you must be checked in at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time (airports requiring additional time are listed below, Go to footer note).

MORE DETAILS

The airport is a hub for Silver Airways, as well as a focus city for Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, and Spirit. Based on the number of passengers carried, Southwest is the airport's largest carrier. Orlando International Airport is also home to a large maintenance base for United Airlines.

MORE DETAILS

The Orlando International Airport (MCO) is certainly busy throughout most of the year, being one of the main airports for tourists visiting Disney World, Universal Orlando, Sea World, or one of the many other Central Florida attractions. These crowds can make traveling through the airport quite stressful.

MORE DETAILS

Is toothpaste considered a liquid by the TSA? Yes, toothpaste must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids and gels. Toothpaste can be brought through TSA security in your carry-on as long as it is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a 1-quart bag.

MORE DETAILS

Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols.

MORE DETAILS

You can fly with any amount of cash. No law prohibits you from bringing any amount of money on a flight. Likewise, TSA has no rules that limit how much money you can bring through security. In other words, TSA has no cash limit per person.

MORE DETAILS

Safety Razors: Because the razor blades are so easy to remove, safety razors are not permitted in your carry-on luggage with the blade. They're fine to pack in your carry-on without the blade. The blades must be stored in your checked luggage. The same applies for straight razors.

MORE DETAILS

You may leave on your shoes and light jacket during screening. If you alarm during security screening, you may be required to remove your shoes for further screening or undergo a pat-down. You can request to be seated during this portion of the screening.

MORE DETAILS

One of the most common reasons you will get a pat down is if you refuse to go through the walk-through metal detector or the full body scanner. For some people going through a metal detector is not an option, while others just may prefer to not go through these.

MORE DETAILS

CLEAR application process and costs CLEAR membership requires a non-refundable annual fee of $189, although members can add up to three family members or friends to their account for just $60 each.

MORE DETAILS