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Home: Flights to Orlando

Flights to Orlando Made Easy
One Destination-Two Airport Locations!

All planes arrive at one of two places:

plane-sunset-orlando-florida
  • Orlando International Airport (MCO)

  • Sanford International Airport (SFB)

Our family has been taking flights to Orlando for 10 years now. That's a lot of visits to Orlando airport and Sanford airport. (And we can't wait to get back!) Here's what you need to know to choose the best place to land for your Orlando vacation.

We've also included some of our best tips for booking flights to Central Florida.

Location, Location, Location

Orlando airport (MCO) receives international carriers plus a few charter flights. It is centrally based, just 9 miles southeast of downtown. If you're staying in the downtown region, or in the southern part of Orlando, landing here will cut your travel time and costs.

Sanford airport caters mainly to charter flights from Europe as well as regional carriers. This airport is-surprise, surprise-located in Sanford, 45 minutes north of Orlando, ideal if you're staying in the north part of Orlando. You can whip right down the SR417 to get to your destination.

Both airports provide prompt, efficient service. Transportation in the form of rental cars, taxis, buses and shuttles will be available at either location.

Before you leave, visit our map and directions page and download an Orlando map from the airport to your destination in Orlando. You'll save time and avoid starting your Orlando vacation with one of those "Why can't you just ask for directions?" arguments!

Booking Flights to Orlando

When travelling with a family, there are a few things to keep in mind when booking your flights to Orlando:

  • Book early to make sure everyone gets a seat on the same flight.

  • Request seats with extra room if you're travelling with little ones.

  • Look for cheap flights on the Internet. Travel airfare is the biggest part of your travel budget, so being able to save on it is important. We like Skyscanner (they actually search a bunch of travel sites for you, click 'Search & Save' in the box below and start saving!)

  • If you have time and are willing to risk having to pay a higher price as your departure date approaches, wait for seat sales to try to get cheap flights.

  • Talk to friends to find out the name of one or two good travel agents. They may be able to help you get a well-priced Orlando flight.

More info on Orlando flights

Over the years, we have used both airports and have had no problems with either. But you don't have to listen to us.

mco-airport-terminal-orlandoTake a look at these airport forums and see what other people have to say regarding arrival flights to Orlando MCO and arrival flights to Orlando Sanford.

Learn more about flights to Orlando and Sanford airports before you arrive. You'll find out everything you need to know from the moment you step off the plane, through to immigration, baggage reclaim, vehicle pick up, holiday reps, shopping and dining.


Homeland Security and Flights to Orlando

As we all know, 9-11 changed the way the United States and the rest of the world look upon internal security. When arriving in Orlando, you will see the difference homeland security has made from the moment you leave your plane right through to Customs & Immigration.

Our family has discussed the issue of increased security and we agree that although it can be irritating, our safety is worth the extra hassle. Yes, your wait is longer due to the photographing and finger printing carried out on each person. But it's a small sacrifice when these kinds of activities are keeping us safe on our Orlando flight.

Tips for dealing with increased homeland security on your Orlando flights:

  • Plan to be held up in customs so you aren't feeling rushed.

  • Remember that homeland security measures protect your family.

  • Obey the instructions you are given by the immigration officers.

  • Keep smiling. Security and immigration officers are just people doing their jobs, not monsters trying to ruin your Orlando flight.

  • Think about the reasons you have come to Orlando rather than getting upset. Before you know it, you'll be jumping into that 75°f swimming pool at your hotel or villa without a care in the world!

Just like your local paperboy

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