Is Southwest Planning an Orlando Lounge? Here’s What We Know.

Southwest Airlines may be preparing to bring its first airport lounge to Orlando International Airport (MCO). This is a major move as it adds a new premium travel option for passengers flying from one of the nation’s busiest leisure destinations.

Although the carrier has not officially announced an Orlando lounge, reports suggest plans are already in motion.

Here’s everything we know.

Airport Plans Suggest Southwest Is Planning a Lounge in Orlando

As first reported by View from the Wing, Southwest Airlines has big plans for Orlando International Airport. The purported Orlando lounge would be part of Southwest’s expansion of Airside 2, which serves gates 100 through 129 in Concourse 2, where the carrier already has a significant presence.

Airport planning documents reference the proposed facility, which would be built on Level 3 of Airside 2. With Southwest’s major presence, the space makes a logical location for a dedicated passenger lounge.

An additional design and engineering presentation describes an airline club or lounge facility and features vertical circulation, supporting spaces, and an optional terrace. An August capital planning report also includes a premium lounge as part of the broader expansion budget.

When you put it all together, this all but confirms a Southwest lounge in Orlando. However, nothing is known at this point about the lounge’s size, opening date, or any confirmed amenities.

The potential Orlando location is part of Southwest’s broader lounge initiative. Construction has already begun on Southwest’s first 4 lounges, which will be located at:

• Nashville International Airport (BNA)
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
• Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI)
• Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)

These lounges are expected to welcome guests in late 2027.

Southwest has committed to at least 7 additional lounges beyond its initial 4 locations. With Orlando, Denver (DEN), Dallas Love Field (DAL), and Washington, D.C. (DCA) also noted in airport planning talks, 8 potential locations are now known — though not all have been officially confirmed.

What This Means for Flyers

For travelers flying from or through Orlando, a Southwest lounge is a welcome addition. The airport is the primary gateway for visitors heading to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, and other Central Florida attractions. Additional airport amenities, including airport lounges, make sense for such a busy airport.

Though Southwest says its planned lounges will feature comfortable spaces and quality amenities, specific offerings for the potential Orlando lounge remain unknown.

Of course, lounge access rules and restrictions must be considered. Southwest has indicated that its new premium credit card will provide access to its lounge network, though the card’s official details, such as annual fees and guest privileges, have not yet been announced.

Final Thoughts

Is Southwest planning an Orlando lounge? All signs point to yes at this point. Airport documents indicate lounge space in the Airside 2 expansions, but Southwest has yet to officially confirm the Orlando location.

If the plans move forward, Orlando will undoubtedly become an important part of the airline’s burgeoning premium push.