Visitors to Orlando now have the opportunity to explore, shop, and dine at Orlando Airport’s Terminal C without needing a boarding pass.
The Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program, which started as a pilot program, has now become a permanent feature of the airport, allowing non-travelers to enjoy the amenities and experiences of Terminal C provided they are approved by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and comply with the program’s guidelines.
During the pilot year, over 6,000 reservations were made by people interested in accessing Terminal C. The program attracted a diverse range of visitors, including those looking to explore the newly constructed terminal, dine at its popular restaurants, or shop at the unique retail outlets.
The program also gained popularity among the planespotting community, who appreciated the access to airside views and activities.
Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), emphasized the significance of the program’s success: “Experience MCO gives our guests the opportunity to enjoy Terminal C on their own time. Thanks to the cooperation with our TSA partners, the program is a success. We look forward to more reservations in the future whether it’s to explore the interactive Moment Vault or dine at one of the popular restaurant concepts.”
The Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program provides access to a variety of activities at Terminal C. Visitors can enjoy dining at unique restaurant concepts, explore innovative digital media experiences like the interactive Moment Vault, or simply wander through the terminal to experience its modern design and ambiance. The program also serves as a great way for friends and family to greet arriving passengers or bid farewell to loved ones in a secure, post-security environment.
To apply for an Experience MCO Visitor Pass, guests must visit the Experience MCO website and apply up to seven days in advance of their desired visit. After completing the form and agreeing to the program’s terms, applicants will receive notification of their status from the TSA after midnight on the day of their approved visit.
However, there are specific rules and regulations to follow. Experience MCO guests are subject to the same security procedures as passengers boarding an aircraft, including TSA’s 3-1-1 Liquids Rule and other prohibited items restrictions.
Visitors must enter the Terminal C TSA Checkpoint between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on the day of their approved visit and must exit by 8:00 p.m. Notably, expedited screening and trusted traveler programs such as TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, and MCO Reserve are not available for use in conjunction with the Experience MCO Pass.
The Experience MCO Visitor Pass Program is designed exclusively for non-ticketed passengers, making it a unique offering among U.S. airports. With the program now a permanent feature, Orlando International Airport further establishes itself as a destination beyond just air travel, offering more opportunities for locals and visitors alike to enjoy the best of what Terminal C has to offer.
