Orlando International Airport (MCO) is Florida’s busiest airport and a major gateway for tourists visiting theme parks and attractions. MCO is completely smoke-free indoors with no post-security smoking areas. All smoking must be done in designated outdoor zones before security. This guide explains your options.
Smoking Policy at Orlando Airport
Since July 2003, Orlando International Airport has been completely smoke-free indoors in compliance with Florida State law. Smoking, e-cigarettes, and vaping are prohibited in all terminals, gates, lounges, and enclosed areas.
Designated Outdoor Smoking Areas
There are 8 designated outdoor smoking areas at MCO, located at curbside near the terminal buildings:
Level 1 – Curbside areas across the street from the terminal
Level 2 – Curbside areas near the terminal entrances
Level 3 – E-cigarettes and vaping also permitted in outdoor areas
Look for signage indicating designated smoking zones.
Important: No Post-Security Smoking
There are no smoking areas after security at MCO. If you need to smoke during a layover or before your flight, you must:
Exit the secure area to the outdoor curbside zones
Go through TSA security screening again to re-enter
Re-clearing security typically takes 15-25 minutes during peak hours, so plan accordingly.
Connecting Flights
Unfortunately, connecting flight passengers have no separate smoking options. You must exit the secure area, use the outdoor smoking zones, and re-clear security before your next flight.
Tobacco Purchases
You can purchase cigarettes and tobacco products at:
Duty-Free stores inside the airport
GCG Cigars
3Sixty shops
However, you cannot use these products inside the terminals.
Tips for Smokers at Orlando Airport
Smoke before security – There are no post-security smoking options
Allow 30+ minutes – Factor in time to exit, smoke, and re-clear security
Check your gate location – MCO is a large airport; know how far your gate is
Peak hours matter – Security lines are longer during busy travel periods