Flying Home From MCO: What Time Should Your Ride Pick You Up?

Work back from your departure time. MCO asks travelers to be at the security checkpoint 2 hours before departure. Before that, allow time to check bags, the drive and a cushion for traffic. Walt Disney World resorts are about 20 to 25 miles from MCO, Universal's hotels about 12 to 15, and the Convention Center area of International Drive about 14.

Work out your pickup time

1. Start with your departure timeThe time your flight leaves, not the boarding time.
2. Subtract 2 hoursMCO's advice for reaching the security checkpoint. MCO notes that security wait times change quickly.
3. Subtract time to check bagsIf you're checking bags, look up your airline's bag-drop deadline and allow for the line.
4. Subtract the driveSee the distances below, and allow for traffic and the time of day.
5. Add a cushionExtra time for traffic and the unexpected.

Distances to MCO

An example

Say your flight leaves at 2:00 p.m., you're staying at a Disney resort and you're checking bags:

1. 12:00 p.m.At the security checkpoint, MCO's 2-hour advice.
2. About 11:30 a.m.At the airport, allowing 30 minutes to check bags.
3. About 10:30 a.m.Picked up at your resort, allowing about an hour for the drive and a cushion.

Your exact pickup time depends on your hotel, the day and your flight. We confirm your pickup details when you book.

Why book your airport ride with Gray Black

• Door to terminal. Picked up at your resort, hotel or vacation home and dropped at your airline's terminal.
• Help with every bag. Your driver handles the luggage.
• Room for the whole party. The Premium SUV seats up to 6 with luggage; the 14-passenger van can tow a trailer for extra bags.
• Car seats installed on request. Tell us each child's age when you book.
• Book both directions at once. Reserve your ride to the airport when you book your arrival.
• Owner-run and vetted. Founded by Kristian Maldonado and run with Amanda Lim. Every driver passes criminal and driving-record background checks.

Tell us your terminal

Terminal C serves Aer Lingus, Azul, British Airways, Caribbean Airlines, Emirates, Gol, Icelandair, JetBlue, Lufthansa and Norse. Most other airlines use Terminals A and B in the main terminal. Add your airline and flight number to your booking, so your driver drops you at the right terminal.

Flying home after a cruise?

The timing works differently on the day your cruise ends. Read how to pick a safe flight time after a Port Canaveral cruise.

Common questions