Orlando International Airport (MCO) has new policies through TSA that will change how Disney World families travel.
MCO Rolls Out New TSA Policy Changes for Disney World Families
The airport can feel like a marathon before your trip even begins. Kids are tired, parents are juggling snacks, strollers, and boarding passes, and the long shuffle through security can drain the excitement from any family vacation.
For years, parents have been left to navigate the same crowded lanes as every other traveler—often while trying to console a fussy toddler or wrangle a runaway preschooler. But at one of the busiest airports in the country, a new program is quietly easing that struggle.
This isn’t just a faster lane or a premium service you pay extra for—it’s a dedicated space designed entirely with families in mind, and it’s already helping parents get through security with their sanity intact.
The Launch of TSA’s “Families on the Fly”
Orlando International Airport (MCO) recently became the flagship location for the TSA’s latest initiative, “Families on the Fly.” The program sets up family-only security lanes at every checkpoint, allowing parents traveling with children 12 and under to move through the screening process with more breathing room and less stress.
“We understand that air travel can be challenging, especially for parents managing strollers, diaper bags, and young kids,” said Pete Garcia, TSA’s Federal Security Director for Orlando. “This program goes beyond convenience; it’s about addressing the unique needs of traveling families to provide a smoother, more supportive experience.”
Charlotte-Douglas International, John Wayne Orange County, and Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport have also implemented the lanes, with plans for further expansion nationwide.
Getting Through Faster: How It Works
There’s no sign-up or paperwork needed. At participating airports, families simply head to the checkpoint and look for the clearly marked “Families on the Fly” lane. TSA agents assigned to these lanes are trained to assist with child-related gear like car seats, diaper bags, and strollers.
The program also ties into other TSA services, such as discounted TSA PreCheck enrollment for families. Active-duty military members and Department of Defense employees can bypass the fee entirely by using their DOD ID number as their Known Traveler Number when booking flights.
Extra Tips for a Smooth Experience
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Pack Smart – Keep snacks, electronics, and liquids easy to grab so you’re not digging through bags in line.
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Use TSA Cares – If your child has a disability or medical need, request personalized screening assistance by calling TSA Cares 72 hours in advance.
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Combine with PreCheck – When possible, use the family lane and PreCheck together to cut wait times dramatically.
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Aim for Off-Peak Hours – Mid-mornings and early afternoons typically mean fewer crowds, even in family lanes.
Why This Is a Win for MCO Travelers
For many families, the travel day sets the tone for the entire trip. A stressful security line can lead to frayed nerves and cranky kids before you even board the plane. A smoother process means starting the vacation calm, collected, and ready for fun.
Given Orlando’s role as the entry point to Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and other major attractions, the benefits could extend beyond just happier parents—tourism satisfaction may rise as well. With nationwide expansion planned, “Families on the Fly” could become the new normal for airports across the U.S.
