Orlando International Airport (MCO) Security Wait Times & TSA Details 

Being one of the busiest airports in the United States, Orlando International Airport has travelers wondering about its security wait times. The Orlando Airport wait times generally range from 10 to 20 minutes, exceeding 30 minutes or more during peak hours or holidays. Therefore, the airport recommends passengers to arrive at the security checkpoint 2 hours before their flights. To expedite through the security checks and customs, MCO also provides its travelers with facilities like CLEAR, TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and Mobile Passport Control.

Current Average MCO Security Wait Times

The current security wait times at Orlando International Airport range from 10 to 20 minutes. However, there may be delays based on passenger volume, peak hours, and holidays. MCO Airport provides TSA Pre-Check to speed up the security process at all three terminals.

Orlando Airport Security Wait Times: General Overview

The security wait time at MCO varies according to the time of the day. The peak hours are in the afternoon (2 pm to 5 pm) and evening (7 pm to 10 pm), while the shortest security line at MCO is during 2 am to 6 am.

MCO Airport TSA Wait Time

The typical TSA wait time at MCO ranges from 15-20 minutes. The wait time may vary from terminal to terminal. The average wait time is based on Pacific Standard Time. During peak hours, travelers should anticipate a wait of 20-30 minutes at the TSA screening. 

Expedited Security Screening Programs at MCO Airport

Travelers at the Orlando Airport have several security screening options to make their security wait time minimal. MCO offers programs like MCO Reserve, TSA PreCheck, and CLEAR+.

1. MCO Reserve- This program allows travelers without TSA Pre-Check and CLEAR to book a time slot to go through the Orlando Airport security screening. All three terminals have these reserve lanes. 

• On arriving at the MCO Reserve Lane, travelers can scan their MCO Reserve QR code and go directly to the screening procedure. 
• Booking a slot up to 7 days in advance is ideal, as limited slots are available.
• Screening times are available from 5:00 am to 5:00 pm for flights between 6:30 am to 8:30 pm at the Reserve lanes.

2. TSA PreCheck- This program allows the traveler to go through the security screening faster by going through dedicated lanes. Enrolled travelers do not need to remove shoes, laptop, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, or light jackets, which reduces the Orlando TSA wait times.

• Operating hours for TSA PreCheck- 4:00 am to 8:30 pm. These services are available at Terminal C and Terminal A/B West Checkpoint at MCO.
• Travelers can enroll for this program at the airport’s CLEAR locations. Enrolling requires identification documents and $85 fee for covering five years of participation. 

3. CLEAR+- Travelers with a CLEAR+ membership at MCO can get an expedited security experience by going through the separate CLEAR lanes. CLEAR, with its biometrics-based systems, allows members to skip the lines and go directly to the screening area.

• Passengers can enroll for CLEAR+ membership online or at the MCO airport directly.

Orlando Airport Customs and Immigration Wait Times

The average wait time at Orlando Airport‘s customs and immigration is between 15-17 minutes. This time varies according to the time of the day or season. Travelers can reduce the wait time through several programs offered by MCO.

1. Enhanced Passenger Processing (EPP)- A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program, EPP uses biometrics for identity verification of the traveler. This process reduces wait times at MCO and helps to create a seamless experience for the traveler.

2. Mobile Passport Control (MPC)- The Mobile Passport Control is a CBP program that allows travelers to submit their passport and customs information through a mobile app before arrival at MCO Airport.

• Passengers can submit their information on the app, which generates an electronic receipt with a QR code.
• On arrival, passengers can show the QR code to the CBP officer present at Orlando Airport for an expedited verification process.

3. Global Entry- This program allows pre-approved and low-risk international travelers to go through Orlando airport’s security faster. Global Entry has automated kiosks, and it also includes TSA PreCheck benefits.

• Travelers can apply for Global Entry at the Trusted Traveler Programs website and complete the application and interview at the airport.

Where to Contact for MCO Security Wait Time Assistance

Travelers can contact the Transportation Security Administration for assistance and queries related to security procedures.

TSA Contact information:

Frequently Asked Questions