Where are the Smoking Areas at Orlando Airport (MCO)?
If you are traveling through Orlando International Airport (MCO) and need a cigarette or vape break, understanding the airport’s strict smoking rules will save you time and frustration. In compliance with Florida state law, MCO is a 100% smoke-free facility indoors.
There are no indoor smoking lounges or post-security smoking areas anywhere inside the airport. All smoking and vaping must take place at official designated outdoor curbside zones located prior to TSA security screening. This complete guide outlines exact outdoor locations across Terminals A, B, and C, rules for e-cigarettes, and advice for connecting passengers.
Quick Orlando Airport Smoking Area Directory
| Terminal / Location | Security Status | Exact Area | Rules & Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal A | Pre-Security Only | Outdoor Curbside (Level 1 & Level 3) | Designated ashtrays, outdoor seating |
| Terminal B | Pre-Security Only | Outdoor Curbside (Level 1 & Level 3) | Designated ashtrays, outdoor seating |
| Terminal C | Pre-Security Only | Outdoor Curbside (Level 1 & Level 6) | Marked outdoor curbside zones |
| Airside Gates (1–129 & C) | Post-Security | NO SMOKING AREAS | Strictly prohibited; requires exiting TSA |
1. Official MCO Smoking & Vaping Policy
Under the Florida Clean Indoor Air Act, smoking is banned inside all enclosed public airport facilities. The airport enforces strict rules regarding tobacco and nicotine products:
- Vaping & E-Cigarettes: Electronic cigarettes, vapes, and vape pens are subject to the exact same restrictions as traditional cigarettes. Vaping inside terminals, restrooms, or gate areas is strictly illegal.
- Distance from Entrances: Outdoor smoking is restricted to designated marked areas equipped with ashtrays. Smoking directly in front of glass entrance doors or baggage claim exits is prohibited.
- Fines & Penalties: Violating the indoor smoking ban inside terminals or restrooms can result in airport security intervention and state fines.
2. Designated Outdoor Smoking Locations
To smoke or vape before your flight, step outside the terminal buildings at these designated curbside zones:
Terminals A & B (Main Building)
- Level 1 (Arrivals / Baggage Claim): Step outside the baggage claim doors on either Side A or Side B. Marked smoking areas with standing ashtrays are situated along the outer commercial curb across the pickup lanes.
- Level 3 (Departures / Ticketing): Exit the departures drop-off doors on either Side A or Side B. Designated smoking spots are located along the outer sidewalk areas.
Terminal C (South Complex)
- Level 1 (Ground Transportation): Located outside the ground transportation exits near the bus and shuttle pickup zones.
- Level 6 (Departures): Located outside the airline check-in and drop-off curb.
3. Can You Smoke After TSA Security or During Layovers?
No. There are zero smoking areas past security checkpoints at MCO. This includes all gate concourses (Airsides 1–4 and Terminal C), airline lounges, food courts, and outdoor balconies.
If you have a layover at Orlando Airport or have already cleared TSA security and need to smoke, you must follow these steps: