Does Orlando Airport (MCO) have a Smoking Area?

Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida primarily features a non-smoking zone. Keeping in mind the health and safety of all fliers, visitors, and others, it banned this activity in 2003. Due to this, currently, Orlando Airport does not have a smoking area or zone. Hence, a flier or visitor at this airfield in the United States should be cautious about not practicing the activity here. In case they violate this rule, the authorities may take strict action. This may include imposing penalties or other such consequences.

Is there a Smoking Area at Orlando Airport?

At present, smoking is restricted in Orlando International Airport, FL. Owing to the same, no such area can be found at the largest airport in the United States to use cigarettes or vapes. As per the State Law of Florida, US, this airfield has become a non-smoking area since July 1, 2003. 

• At MCO, travelers are not allowed to smoke or vape inside/around any area within the premises. 
• In addition, some other forms of tobacco are banned. These include:
  • Cigarettes
  • E-cigarettes or vapes
  • Cigars

Note: If any traveler violates this rule, then fines and/or other penalties are charged. 

Why is there No Smoking Area at Orlando Airport or MCO?

There are no MCO smoking areas as of now. The primary reason for this is the adherence to the State Law of Florida. Apart from this, the management of this airfield in Orlando, FL, prioritizes the safety and health of flyers and employees as well. 

• Like most airports, MCO remains crowded. Hence, smoking or secondhand smoke can cause serious threats to health.
• A flyer with a disease like asthma, heart problem, etc., can be highly affected by the smoke.
• The fire emitted through this activity can damage the property too.
• A few accidents in the past have happened at MCO because of smoking. 

Does MCO have a Smoking Area Outside?

Although there is no smoking area at Orlando Airport, there may be some areas available outside. These designated areas may be located near the entrance and exit points of Terminals A, B, and C. These outdoor locations are possibly equipped with ashtrays and seating to accommodate smokers. 

Can I Buy Cigarettes to Smoke at Orlando International Airport? 

Although a smoking area at MCO Airport is not accessible, passengers can purchase cigarettes and other tobacco products here. Various shops within the airport’s premises may offer these. Orlando Airport shops and stores can be found in both pre and post-security areas at Terminal A/B/C. 

Smoking Policies at MCO for Connecting Passengers

At Orlando International Airport (MCO), the rules for connecting passengers are the same, i.e. smoking, including vaping and e-cigarettes, is not allowed anywhere inside the airport buildings. Even if someone is just passing through on a layover, they cannot smoke indoors.

If a connecting passenger wants to smoke, they will need to exit the terminal and use one of the designated outdoor smoking areas. After that, they must go back through TSA security screening to return to their gate.

Security lines at MCO can be long, especially during busy times. Therefore, allow at least 15 to 30 extra minutes for this process. If not planned properly, stepping out for a smoke could result in missing the next flight.

Enforcement & Penalties for Smoking at MCO

Orlando International Airport follows strict no-smoking and no-vaping rules inside all terminals, in compliance with the Florida Clean Indoor Air Act and airport authority policies.

• Smoking in an area that has not been designated as a smoking area can lead to a civil infraction.
• Penalties for non-criminal violations can include fines. For a first violation, a fine of up to $100 may be imposed, and for subsequent violations, it can be up to $500.

Alternative Options for Smokers

If a traveller doesn’t want to leave the secure area to smoke, there are a few nicotine alternatives they can use inside the terminal. These options are allowed and can help manage cravings during the wait.

• Nicotine gum
• Nicotine patches
• Lozenges or pouches (non-smoke, non-vape)

These alternatives do not violate airport policies and can help manage nicotine cravings during long waits or layovers.

Note: E-cigarettes and vape devices are not allowed indoors at MCO. Even though they don’t produce smoke like regular cigarettes, they are still treated the same under the airport’s no-smoking policy.

To Conclude, 

Adhering to certain regulations, there are no smoking zones or areas at Orlando International Airport, FL, USA. Due to this, travelers are not allowed to smoke or vape here. However, at some sites

Frequently Asked Questions