Updated August 2026 · 7 min read

MCO vs. Orlando Sanford (SFB)

Most visitors fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO), the region's main hub served by the large majority of major airlines. A smaller number of mostly charter and low-cost international flights use Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), about 25 miles northeast of the main tourist corridor. If you're booking flights, double-check which of the two airports your itinerary actually uses — the names are easy to confuse, and SFB involves a noticeably longer drive to Disney or Universal than MCO does.

Terminal layout

MCO is built around a main terminal complex connected to separate airside buildings where gates are located, linked by an automated people-mover train. Practically, this means there's usually a short train ride between checking in or clearing security and reaching your actual gate — factor this into connection times, and don't panic if your gate seems to be in a different building on the airport map.

Getting to your hotel

  • Rental car: The most flexible option if you plan to visit multiple parks or areas over several days. Rental counters are consolidated in an on-site facility connected to the terminal.
  • Ride-share and taxis: Widely available with clearly signed pickup points; straightforward for a direct hotel transfer without needing a car for the whole trip.
  • Hotel or resort shuttles: Many hotels, and Disney's and Universal's own resorts, offer scheduled shuttle services — worth booking in advance if you'd rather not arrange transport on arrival.
  • Public transportation: Limited for tourist purposes compared with a car or ride-share; most visitors don't rely on it for the full trip.

Practical tips

Build in extra time for the people-mover and security

Because of the train connection between the main terminal and gate areas, and MCO's high passenger volumes, it's worth arriving with a bit more buffer than you might at a smaller airport — especially during peak holiday travel weeks.

If you're collecting a rental car, allow extra time at both ends of your trip for the shuttle or walk to the consolidated rental facility, particularly at busy periods like winter and spring school holidays.

How far is MCO from Walt Disney World?
Roughly 20 miles / 32 km, typically a 30–45 minute drive depending on traffic and which part of Disney property you're heading to.
Should I fly into MCO or Orlando Sanford (SFB)?
MCO for almost all visitors — it has far more flight options and a shorter drive to the main hotel and park areas. Only choose SFB if a specific low-cost or charter route makes it clearly cheaper for your trip, and you've factored in the longer transfer.