MCO Ranked Fifth Longest Airport Walk in U.S. Study Says

If navigating Orlando International Airport ever feels like a trek, there’s now data to back it up.

In an April 2026 study done by KURU Footwear, MCO was ranked as having the fifth-longest airport walk in the United States, with passengers covering up to 0.7 miles from the entrance to the furthest gate. For many travelers, that distance turns the start of a trip into an unexpected endurance test. 

Orlando isn’t alone when it comes to long airport walks. The study analyzed major U.S. airports and found that various layouts and high passenger volume often translate to more steps for travelers.

Here’s how MCO stacks up against the top five:

1. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport – 1.50 miles
2. Denver International Airport – 1.14 miles
3. Washington Dulles International Airport – 0.97 miles
4. Pittsburgh International Airport – 0.86 miles
5. Orlando International Airport – 0.70 miles

At the top of the list, Dallas/Fort Worth’s maximum walk stretches a staggering mile and a half, more than double the distance travelers may cover at MCO.

Why the Walk Feels so Long

Unlike more compact airports, MCO’s layout is designed with a split terminal system. After clearing security, passengers must take automated people movers to reach their designated concourses before continuing on foot to their gates. 

That journey includes: 

• Walking through the main terminal 
• Boarding a tram to the airside concourse
• Navigating long hallways once you arrive 

Even within a single concourse, gates can be spread far apart, meaning the walking doesn’t stop once you’re “close.” 

The airport design reflects Orlando’s status as one of the country’s busiest tourism gateways. With millions of visitors traveling to Central Florida each year, MCO prioritizes capacity and flow over compact convenience.

Wide concourses and separated terminals help manage crowds, but they also expand those extra steps that can add up for passengers. A 0.7-mile walk can take anywhere from 15 to 20 minutes, depending on congestion. 

How to Plan

With MCO ranking among the longest airport walks in the country, a little preparation goes a long way. Arriving early, wearing comfortable shoes, and allowing extra time between connections can make the experience significantly smoother. 

Orlando International Airport may be the gateway to theme parks and sunshine, but getting to your gate can feel like an attraction of its own. According to the KURU Footwear study, MCO isn’t just busy; it’s one of the longest walks in air travel.

So before takeoff, be ready to put in the steps.

Ava McDonnell

Ava McDonnell is the Digital Content Creator/Editorial Manager for Central Florida Lifestyle Magazine while also earning her bachelor's degree in English at the University of Central Florida. Her work has been featured in UCF's The Charge and Her Campus UCF. She also has experience in editing using AP Style and SEO guidelines. Located in Clermont, Ava has always had a passion for learning about people's lives and sharing accurate stories with the world. She is dedicated to getting the job done right while making content interesting for readers. Aside from writing, you can find her indulging in the great outdoors with the people she loves. Whether it is hiking, taking photographs, or trying new activities, she is up for almost anything.

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