Orlando Airport Drops A, B, C: Disney Tourists Must Relearn the Map

If you’re planning a Walt Disney World trip in the near future, you’ll want to make note of a subtle but important change at the airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO) has officially renamed its terminals. While your flight won’t be rerouted and your resort bus will still show up, the renaming is part of a major airport overhaul that guests should understand — especially families navigating arrivals with kids and luggage in tow.

This change is more than a cosmetic update. It’s the beginning of a 10-year transformation that promises to redefine the Orlando airport experience, and yes, it will slightly change how you start your Disney vacation.

Orlando’s 10-Year Airport Overhaul

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) recently approved a bold new strategy for both Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), outlining a long-term vision designed to carry the airports into the next decade.

Key highlights of this plan include:

• Facial recognition and biometric scanning for flights (eliminating the need for boarding passes)

• A brand-new hotel on airport property

• 8,000 more parking spaces by 2030

• New VR and AR ride experiences (similar to robotic-arm rides at nearby theme parks)

• A state-of-the-art “vertiport” for air taxi travel by 2030

• A second phase expansion of Terminal C

• A more advanced passenger conveyance system within Terminal C

• New landscaping, mobile food ordering, and autonomous wheelchair technology for accessibility

Perhaps the most immediate and noticeable change for travelers? The terminals at Orlando International Airport have been renamed.

Goodbye A, B, and C. Hello 1, 2, and 3.

Effective now, the familiar terminal labels A, B, and C at Orlando International have officially been retired. In their place:

• Terminal A is now Terminal 1

• Terminal B is now Terminal 2

• Terminal C is now Terminal 3

This change was implemented to streamline navigation, particularly for international travelers and first-time visitors, by switching to a universally understood numerical system.

And while a name is just a name, if you’re not aware of the switch, it could throw off your airport pickup, transportation logistics, or even where you walk to claim your bags.

How This Affects Disney Vacationers

At first glance, the terminal name change may seem like no big deal. But for guests headed to Walt Disney World, any disruption during that critical airport arrival phase can add confusion — especially after a long flight.

Here’s where it may impact your plans:

Resort & Hotel Transportation

Many Disney Resort hotel guests rely on third-party shuttles, buses, or private transfers that pick up directly outside the terminals. If your ride confirmation says “Terminal B,” but you now see signage for “Terminal 2,” you could spend valuable minutes trying to figure out where to meet your ride.

Double-check your shuttle provider’s instructions. Some might still use the old terminal names for a while during the transition period.

Rideshare Pickup (Uber, Lyft)

Most rideshare pickups at MCO are terminal-specific. If your app says “Meet at Terminal A – Level 2,” but the signs now say “Terminal 1,” you’ll need to make that mental adjustment to avoid delays or confusion.

Rental Car Counters

Travelers used to grabbing their rental car at Terminal A will now head to Terminal 1. Same with returning the car — if you’re in a rush to catch a flight, confirming the correct terminal could save you time (and a sprint across the airport).

Disney’s Minnie Van Service

If you’re using the Minnie Van airport transportation option, your pickup or drop-off location could be labeled differently in your app or confirmation email. Don’t assume Terminal B is still Terminal B — it may now be Terminal 2.

Part of a Bigger Transformation

This terminal renaming is just one element of a much larger transformation meant to bring Orlando International Airport into the future.

Travelers will soon encounter:

• Biometric scanning and facial recognition at TSA and boarding checkpoints

• Autonomous wheelchair technology to assist guests with mobility needs

• Mobile food ordering throughout the terminals

• A high-tech VR ride experience on par with theme park attractions

• Vertiport air travel hubs for short-range aircraft landings by 2030

• Expanded gate areas, especially at Terminal C, with more space and amenities

Even the landscaping and arrival experience is getting an upgrade. The airport is leaning into a clean, resort-style aesthetic that feels more like the parks than the traditional gray-and-blue terminal sprawl.

Timeline for Travelers

Some of the bigger changes — like the vertiport, ride attractions, and hotel construction — are coming closer to 2030 or later. But the terminal renaming is happening now. That means if you’re traveling for the holidays, early 2026, or even spring break, you’ll likely see the new signage in full use.

Your airline may still show the older terminal names on e-tickets or itineraries for a while, but inside the airport, only the new numerical labels will be displayed. It’s worth cross-referencing both during your travel days.

Tips for Disney Guests at MCO

Here are a few ways to prepare for the change and avoid a hiccup at the start or end of your vacation:

1. Know Your Terminal – Confirm your airline’s new terminal assignment before departure. It may be labeled as Terminal 1, 2, or 3 on the airport’s site even if your ticket says A, B, or C.

2. Communicate With Your Transport Provider – Make sure they’re using the new terminal names and ask for clear pickup instructions.

3. Leave Extra Time for Arrival or Departure – Especially during the early months of the transition, it’s smart to give yourself 15-20 minutes of extra cushion time to account for signage confusion or longer walks.

4. Don’t Assume – If you’ve flown into Orlando dozens of times, this change might trip you up. Take the time to double-check where you’re going.

For most travelers, the new terminal names at MCO won’t break your vacation — but they’re worth keeping in mind as you plan your arrival and departure. Whether you’re hopping a shuttle to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, grabbing a rental car, or just meeting your rideshare driver, having the right terminal info can save you time, stress, and confusion.

It’s a small tweak, yes — but a relevant one for millions of Disney-bound guests every year. After all, your Disney vacation starts the second you step off the plane… and now, it starts at Terminal 1, 2, or 3.

Let the magic begin — just be sure to read the signs.