I recently flew out to Orlando for my first time since around 2013 for a work conference, and…read morememories immediately came back from the last time I was there from the airport to the hotel. Unfortunately, I didn't have time on my trip to enjoy a lot of what makes Orlando unique and special. I flew on American Airlines and found myself flying in and out of Terminal B, Airside 3. It was easy to navigate between the gates, baggage claim, and shuttle pick-up area.
Unlike friends who absolutely hate flying, I enjoy the travel experience, especially when using some helpful tools like CLEAR, Global Entry/TSA Pre-Check, airport lounge membership, and airline status, most of which I was able to enjoy during my Orlando visit. When checking in, I typically have been able to skip the check-in area if I didn't need to check bags (as I checked in online) though this time, I checked in at the priority area for assistance and checking bags. I then went to the Terminal B check-in and used Global Entry and CLEAR (or TSA Pre-Check Touchless) to skip most of the line at Security while keeping my shoes on (thanks to an American Express Platinum card which comes with credits for both).
Orlando's Terminal B offers multiple airline lounges including The Club MCO, Delta Sky Club, United Club, and Admirals Club. While the AMEX Platinum (or Priority Pass) provide access for entry to The Club MCO (when flying any airline) and the Delta Sky Club (when flying Delta), they weren't near my gate, and I wasn't flying Delta. Rather, my gate was right next to the Admirals Club, which I also had access to. After a short wait, I was able to enjoy that lounge. I wrote a separate review about my experience there, which was quite positive.
When I initially arrived to the Orlando TSA West Checkpoint, I couldn't tell it was the West Checkpoint until I asked someone. Though I knew where I was, I was easily able to tell the difference for the regular line, the TSA Pre-Check line, the CLEAR line, and the TSA Pre-Check Touchless line. The CLEAR and Touchless lines were moving the fastest with the Pre-Check line going rather quickly, and the regular line went at a steady pace but had many more people in it. The security were helpful and friendly, and the TSA agents were reasonable with what they allow to be in luggage without questioning items.
Upon arriving and picking up my luggage, which had a bit of a wait, my colleague and I headed to Ground Transportation to take advantage of the Mears Shuttle to one of the hotels in the area. I then took rideshare to get back to the airport, and I was dropped off right outside of the check-in area for all of the Terminal B airlines. I also found the tram was easy to get on and off and to navigate between my gate and baggage claim.
I have no idea when I plan to be back in Orlando again but I would certainly welcome the chance to fly through the Orlando International Airport again.