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Airfare to Orlando

Julian .

Dreaming of thrilling rollercoasters, captivating shows, and Mickey Mouse himself? Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, awaits! But before the magic begins, navigating airfare can feel like a puzzle. Fear not, intrepid traveler! This guide empowers you to find the perfect flight deal and land in Orlando ready for adventure.

Airfare to Orlando Gateway: Choosing the Right Airport

Orlando boasts two major airports catering to the theme park crowds: Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). Here's a breakdown to help you choose the most convenient option:

  • Orlando International Airport (MCO):

    MCO is the larger and busier airport, offering more flight options from various airlines, including major carriers and budget airlines. It's ideal if you prioritize flight selection and potentially lower fares, especially for domestic travel. However, MCO can get crowded, so factor in potentially longer wait times for baggage claim and ground transportation.

    • Airlines at MCO:

      • Major Airlines: United, American Airlines, Delta, Spirit Airlines (often with lower fares but be mindful of baggage fees)

      • Mid-Range Airlines: JetBlue, Southwest Airlines

      • International Carriers: Numerous international carriers connect through MCO, offering a wider range of options for overseas travelers.

  • Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB):

    SFB is a smaller, less crowded airport offering a potentially smoother arrival experience. While flight options might be more limited, budget airlines like Allegiant and Spirit often serve SFB, potentially leading to very attractive fares. Consider SFB if you prioritize a more relaxed arrival process and potentially lower fares for specific airlines, but be aware of potentially longer ground transportation options to reach the theme parks.

    • Airlines at SFB:

      • Budget Airlines: Allegiant, Spirit Airlines (focusing on leisure destinations)

      • Limited service by some mid-range carriers

Once you've chosen your airport, here are some additional tips for finding the best flight deals to Orlando:

  • Sweet Spots for Savings: Shoulder Seasons Shine! Similar to other Florida destinations, Orlando's peak season (summer and holidays) coincides with higher airfare. Consider flying during the shoulder seasons (spring - March to May, fall - September to November) to enjoy pleasant weather and lighter crowds. This translates to sweeter deals on airfare!

  • Pro Tip: Be a Weekday Warrior! Flights arriving on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, or red-eye flights departing late at night, often boast the most attractive fares.

  • Average Flight Costs to Orlando: A Price Peek Predicting airfare with pinpoint accuracy is tricky, but here's a general idea: * Domestic Flights: Roundtrip flights from major US cities can range from $150 to $400, with prices surging during peak season (summer) and holidays. * International Flights: Flights from Europe or South America can range from $600 to $1,800, depending on the origin city and time of booking.

  • Pro Tip: Unleash the Power of Flight Comparison Websites!
    Kayak, Google Flights, and Skyscanner are your allies in finding the best deals.

Soaring on a Budget: Airlines Serving Orlando

Now that you know about the airports, let's explore the airlines serving Orlando to help you choose the best fit:

  • Budget Airlines: Buckle up for savings, but be mindful of additional fees for checked baggage, seat selection, and even carry-on luggage exceeding a specific size.

    • Spirit Airlines (https://www.spirit.com/) - Offers ultra-low fares, but be prepared for potential charges for baggage and amenities.

    • Allegiant Air (https://www.allegiantair.com/) (primarily at SFB) - Focuses on smaller airports and offers competitive fares, though their route network might be limited.

  • Mid-Range Airlines: These airlines strike a balance between affordability and comfort, often including features like complimentary checked bags on some routes.

    • JetBlue Airways (https://www.jetblue.com/) (at MCO) - Provides a good balance with amenities like complimentary checked bags on some routes.

    • Southwest Airlines (https://www.southwest.com/) (at MCO) - Renowned for their two free checked bags policy and generally reasonable fares.

  • Major Airlines: While pricier than budget options, major airlines offer a wider range of services and amenities, in-flight entertainment, comfortable seating options, and frequent flyer benefits.