A Step-by-Step Guide to Frontier’s Check-In Procedures at MCO Terminal

Flying with Frontier Airlines from Orlando International Airport (MCO) can be a straightforward and pleasant experience if you know exactly what to expect. The Frontier Airlines Orlando Airport Terminal is designed to handle thousands of travelers every day, but navigating check-in procedures can sometimes be overwhelming, especially during peak travel seasons.

This detailed guide will walk you through every step of the check-in process at the Frontier terminal in MCO, from the moment you arrive at the airport to the time you reach your departure gate.

Overview of Frontier Airlines at Orlando Airport

Frontier Airlines operates primarily out of Terminal A at Orlando International Airport (MCO).
Terminal A houses many domestic and international carriers, and Frontier's operations are located on the Level 3, North Side, where ticketing and check-in counters are available.

Knowing where to go ahead of time can save you precious minutes, especially when the airport is bustling with travelers.

When Should You Arrive at the Frontier Terminal?

Frontier Airlines strongly recommends arriving at the Frontier Airlines Orlando Airport Terminal:

• 2 hours before a domestic flight

• 3 hours before an international flight

This timeline provides a comfortable buffer to accommodate check-in, baggage drop, security screening, and walking to your gate. Remember, Frontier is a low-cost carrier, meaning services like baggage check may involve longer lines, particularly during holidays and weekends.

Frontier Check-In Options at MCO

Frontier Airlines offers three convenient check-in options at Orlando Airport:

a. Online Check-In (Preferred)

Frontier's online check-in opens 24 hours before scheduled departure. It’s the fastest way to secure your boarding pass and select seats.

Advantages of online check-in:

• Skip the lines at the airport.

• Pay for bags and choose seats in advance.

• Use a mobile boarding pass to go directly to security.

However, if you need to check baggage, you’ll still have to visit the Bag Drop counters at the Frontier Airlines Orlando Airport Terminal.

b. Airport Kiosk Check-In

If you haven’t checked in online, Frontier offers self-service kiosks at their MCO Terminal A check-in area.

Steps:

• Find the Frontier kiosks (near counters 1–59).

• Input your booking details or scan your ID.

• Print your boarding pass and baggage tags.

• Attach baggage tags and proceed to the bag drop counter.

Kiosks are user-friendly and reduce your time spent in line compared to full-service counters.

c. Full-Service Check-In Counters

If you need extra help — maybe you have special requests, oversized luggage, or international documentation checks — head to the full-service counters.

At the counter, Frontier agents can:

• Check your documents.

• Process baggage check-ins.

• Print boarding passes.

• Handle special needs (such as unaccompanied minors).

Note: Frontier charges extra for printed boarding passes issued by agents. Checking in online or using a kiosk is generally more economical.

Baggage Check at Frontier Airlines Orlando Airport Terminal

Frontier Airlines is a budget carrier that charges separately for baggage. Here’s what you should know:

a. Baggage Fees

• Carry-on bags: Additional fee applies. Must fit Frontier’s size limits.

• Checked bags: Fees vary depending on when you pay (cheapest if purchased online).

• Personal items: Free (must fit under the seat).

Pro Tip: Prepay for your bags online during check-in to save significantly.

b. Bag Drop Procedure

After check-in:

1. Attach your printed baggage tag.

2. Proceed to the dedicated Bag Drop area at the Frontier counters.

3. Agents will quickly process your luggage and send it through security screening.

Ensure your bag meets the size and weight requirements to avoid costly fees at the airport.

Security Screening at MCO Terminal A

Once your check-in and baggage drop are complete, it’s time to head to security.

The security checkpoint for Terminal A is located just a short walk from Frontier’s counters.

Tips for Smooth Security Screening:

• Have your boarding pass and ID ready.

• Remove electronics larger than a cell phone from your bag.

• Take off belts, jackets, and shoes if required.

• Check if you're eligible for TSA PreCheck to speed up the process.

Security lines at the Frontier Airlines Orlando Airport Terminal can get long, especially during morning rush hours, so plan accordingly.

Navigating to Your Frontier Gate

After clearing security:

• Take the APM (Automated People Mover) to Airside 1 gates.

• Follow airport signage directing you to the Frontier gates, usually in the 10–29 gate range.

Gate numbers are clearly marked, but keep an eye on airport monitors for updates, as gates can occasionally change.

Important Tips for a Smooth Frontier Airlines Check-In at MCO

a. Download the Frontier Airlines App

The app provides:

• Mobile boarding passes.

• Real-time flight updates.

• Easy baggage payments.

Having it installed can significantly ease your airport experience.

b. Travel Light

Since Frontier’s fee structure is based on services used, traveling with just a personal item can save you time at check-in and money on fees.

c. Check Flight Status Before You Leave

Weather, air traffic, or operational issues can cause delays. Checking your flight status via Frontier’s website or app ensures you're not caught off-guard.

d. Use Frontier's Bag Sizers

Frontier strictly enforces bag size limits. Use the sizers at check-in to ensure your carry-on and personal item meet the size requirements.

Special Assistance Services

At the Frontier Airlines Orlando Airport Terminal, passengers needing special assistance should:

• Inform Frontier staff at check-in.

• Request wheelchair service if needed.

• Allow extra time for boarding (pre-boarding is available).

Frontier’s team is trained to assist passengers with mobility limitations, vision impairments, or other special needs.

Conclusion

Navigating the Frontier Airlines Orlando Airport Terminal doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning — arriving early, checking in online, paying for baggage beforehand, and knowing where to go — you can breeze through check-in and enjoy a smooth start to your journey.

FAQs About Frontier Airlines Check-In at MCO

Q1: What if I miss the check-in window?
Frontier check-in closes 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights and 60 minutes for international ones. Missing this window could mean missing your flight.

Q2: Can I bring my own printed boarding pass?
Yes, you can print it at home or use a mobile boarding pass to skip extra charges.

Q3: Are there Frontier customer service desks inside security?
No, Frontier’s full-service desks are located before security. After passing security, only general airport help desks are available.

Q4: How early does baggage drop open?
Typically, baggage drop opens 2.5 to 3 hours before flight departure. Verify exact opening times for early morning flights.

Q5: Is there a Frontier lounge at MCO?
Frontier Airlines does not operate its own lounge at Orlando Airport. MCO offers independent lounges like "The Club MCO" for purchase separately.