The Ultimate Guide to Navigating the MCO Frontier Terminal

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to MCO

2. Frontier Airlines: A Quick Overview

3. Where to Find Frontier at MCO

4. Terminal Layout: Getting Around Terminal B

5. Arriving at MCO for a Frontier Flight

6. Check-In and Baggage Policies

7. Security Procedures

8. Navigating to Airside 4

9. Frontier Boarding Process

10. In-Terminal Dining and Shopping Options

11. Passenger Amenities and Services

12. Accessibility Features

13. Traveling with Children

14. Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

15. Parking and Transportation to MCO

16. Arrival and Baggage Claim

17. Lost and Found Services

18. First-Time Flyer Tips

19. Avoiding Common Mistakes

20. Frequently Asked Questions

21. Final Thoughts

1. Introduction to MCO

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, welcoming tens of millions of passengers every year. It serves as the main airport for central Florida, offering domestic and international flights to hundreds of destinations. MCO is known for its efficiency, cleanliness, and family-friendly features, making it a traveler favorite.

2. Frontier Airlines: A Quick Overview

Frontier Airlines is an ultra-low-cost carrier based in the U.S., known for offering budget-friendly flights across North America and beyond. They keep fares low by using an “unbundled” pricing model—meaning travelers pay only for what they need, such as seat selection, bags, and snacks.

At MCO, Frontier operates numerous flights daily, catering to both vacationers and business travelers.

3. Where to Find Frontier at MCO

Frontier Airlines operates from Terminal B, specifically using gates in Airside 4. This airside handles many of the international and low-cost carriers at MCO. All check-in procedures for Frontier take place in the Terminal B main terminal building before security. Once through security, travelers ride the automated people mover (APM) to Airside 4 to board their flights.

4. Terminal Layout: Getting Around Terminal B

MCO's main terminal is split into Terminal A and Terminal B. Both are mirror images of each other, with Level 1 for ground transportation, Level 2 for baggage claim, and Level 3 for departures and ticketing. Frontier’s check-in desks and kiosks are located on Level 3 of Terminal B.

After security, passengers take a tram to Airside 4, which houses the gates and amenities for Frontier.

5. Arriving at MCO for a Frontier Flight

Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. Frontier check-in lines can move quickly, but self-service options and mobile check-in save the most time.

Be sure to review baggage policies ahead of time, as fees are higher at the airport than when paid online in advance.

6. Check-In and Baggage Policies

Frontier allows one free personal item per passenger. Any additional items—including carry-ons and checked baggage—require a fee. You can check in:

• Online (recommended)

• Via the Frontier app

• At a self-service kiosk

• At the full-service counter

Print boarding passes beforehand to avoid additional fees at the airport. If you do need assistance, the Frontier desk is well-marked and staff are available for support.

7. Security Procedures

Security at MCO is handled by the TSA and can get busy, especially during morning and early evening hours. Use TSA PreCheck if eligible to speed up the process. Otherwise, standard lanes move at a decent pace if you arrive early.

Remember:

• Wear easy-to-remove shoes

• Keep electronics and liquids accessible

• Travel light for a smoother screening

8. Navigating to Airside 4

Once you’ve cleared security, follow signs to the tram that takes you to Airside 4. This short ride delivers you to the gates used by Frontier Airlines and several other carriers. Trams run continuously and only take a few minutes.

9. Frontier Boarding Process

Frontier boards by zones, listed on your boarding pass. Those who purchased seat selection or carry-on baggage usually board earlier. Families with small children and travelers needing assistance may board before general boarding begins.

Boarding typically starts 30–40 minutes before departure, so monitor the gate announcements closely.

10. In-Terminal Dining and Shopping Options

Airside 4 has a variety of food and retail outlets:

• Fast Food: McDonald’s, Auntie Anne’s, and Panda Express

• Sit-Down Dining: Cask & Larder (Southern cuisine and full bar)

• Grab-and-Go: On the Fly (salads, wraps, snacks)

• Shops: Hudson News, tech accessories, souvenir stores

If you have dietary restrictions, pack a snack just in case, especially for late-night or early-morning flights.

11. Passenger Amenities and Services

MCO offers a comfortable experience for all travelers. Terminal B and Airside 4 include:

• Free Wi-Fi

• Charging ports at most gates

• Flight monitors and announcements

• Water fountains and restrooms

• Customer service counters

These amenities make waiting for your flight much more pleasant.

12. Accessibility Features

MCO is well-equipped for travelers with disabilities:

• Wheelchair assistance (arranged through Frontier)

• Accessible restrooms and elevators

• TTY phones and braille signage

• Assistance for visual or hearing-impaired passengers

Notify Frontier ahead of time if you need any specific accommodations.

13. Traveling with Children

MCO is very family-friendly. Parents can take advantage of:

• Nursing rooms and family restrooms

• Kids' meals at select dining spots

• Priority boarding for families with small children

• Ample stroller and carry-on space (Frontier allows gate-checking)

Pro tip: Bring coloring books or digital tablets for the tram ride and waiting time.

14. Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Wi-Fi is free and unlimited throughout MCO, including Terminal B and Airside 4. Charging stations are located at most gates and seating areas. Some seats even have built-in USB ports and outlets.

Make sure to bring a backup battery pack if your flight is delayed or gate seating is full.

15. Parking and Transportation to MCO

MCO offers several parking options:

• Parking Garages A & B: Covered parking, walkable to the terminal

• Economy Lot: Shuttle service to terminal

• Valet Parking: Available near Terminal B

Public transportation, rideshares, taxis, and hotel shuttles also serve the airport regularly.

16. Arrival and Baggage Claim

After landing, you’ll ride the tram from Airside 4 back to Terminal B. Baggage claim is on Level 2. Monitors display the correct carousel for your flight number.

Frontier’s baggage service office is nearby in case of lost or delayed luggage.

17. Lost and Found Services

If you lose an item on the plane, contact Frontier’s lost and found department. Items lost in the terminal, including at security, are handled by the airport’s lost and found office. Reclaim items as soon as possible for the best chance of recovery.

18. First-Time Flyer Tips

• Arrive early: Between check-in, security, and the tram, time flies

• Pack light: Avoid high carry-on and baggage fees

• Bring snacks: Frontier doesn’t include food or beverages

• Charge devices: Outlets can get crowded during peak hours

• Use the app: For boarding passes, updates, and gate info

19. Avoiding Common Mistakes

Many travelers trip up by:

• Arriving late and missing the tram to Airside 4

• Forgetting to prepay for bags

• Bringing oversized personal items

• Assuming food is free onboard

• Not double-checking gate numbers

Pay attention to updates and plan ahead to avoid last-minute stress.

20. Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which terminal is Frontier at in Orlando?

A: Frontier operates out of Terminal B, using Airside 4 for departures and arrivals.

Q: How early should I arrive for a Frontier flight?

A: Arrive 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours before international flights.

Q: Does Frontier allow free carry-ons?

A: Only one free personal item is included. Carry-ons and checked bags require additional fees.

Q: Can I bring food through security?

A: Yes, solid foods are allowed. Beverages must be purchased after security.

Q: Does Frontier offer Wi-Fi on their planes?

A: Most Frontier aircraft do not offer Wi-Fi—download content before boarding.

21. Final Thoughts

Flying with Frontier Airlines through the MCO frontier terminal is a smooth and budget-friendly experience—if you know what to expect. From navigating Terminal B to finding your gate in Airside 4, this guide covers everything you need to travel confidently.

Whether you're heading to a sunny beach, a magical theme park, or a new city adventure, having a solid understanding of your terminal setup takes the stress out of flying. Travel smart, arrive early, and enjoy your trip!