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Melbourne Orlando International Airport, known as MLB, offers a compact and efficient entry point to Florida’s Space Coast, located just 2.4 kilometres northwest of downtown Melbourne and 113 kilometres southeast of Orlando. This single-terminal airport, handling around 747,691 passengers in 2023, serves as a convenient alternative to the busier Orlando International Airport, with a focus on domestic flights and limited international routes. A recent $72 million renovation has modernised its facilities, making it a practical choice for travellers exploring central Florida’s beaches, cruises, and attractions.
The passenger experience at MLB is straightforward and hassle-free, thanks to its small size and clear layout. The single terminal, divided into arrivals on the ground floor and departures on the upper level, is easy to navigate, with clear signage guiding passengers to Concourse A or B. Check-in and security typically take 20 to 30 minutes, though peak times can see longer queues, particularly for international arrivals at the expanded customs facility. Passengers are advised to arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three for international ones, as manual processes, like boarding pass checks, can slow things down. Staff are noted for being friendly and helpful, with frequent travellers praising the airport’s calm atmosphere compared to larger hubs. Accessibility is well-supported with ramps, lifts, and assistance available, though pre-booking with airlines is recommended for mobility needs.
Access to the airport is simple, with multiple transport options connecting to Melbourne, Orlando, and nearby areas like Cocoa Beach. The Melbourne Airport Express provides door-to-door service to hotels and resorts in Brevard County, costing around £15, while Space Coast Area Transit and Greyhound buses serve towns like Titusville and Cocoa, with fares starting at £2.
Taxis, available opposite the terminal’s car park, cost about £50 to Orlando’s city centre, a 70-minute drive via Interstate 95 or State Road 528. Seven car rental companies, including Hertz and Avis, operate from the arrivals area, ideal for exploring the Space Coast. The drive to downtown Melbourne takes just 5 minutes via NASA Boulevard, though traffic on Wickham Road or construction on Air Terminal Parkway can add delays, especially during rush hours.
The airport’s layout is compact, with all facilities housed within one terminal building. A central atrium post-security offers an overview of gates, dining, and retail, making navigation intuitive. The recent expansion added 86,000 square feet, including new passenger boarding bridges for larger aircraft and four additional restrooms. However, congestion can occur during peak periods, such as mornings or holiday seasons, with limited seating in the gate areas. Passengers recommend checking gate assignments early, as departure boards are sparse, and the airport’s website or apps like iFly provide real-time updates.
Dining and retail options are limited but functional. Post-security, passengers can find a Dunkin’ Donuts, a food stand offering sandwiches, and a bar, though travellers often note the lack of variety and suggest eating in Melbourne or grabbing food en route, such as at nearby Panera Bread. Duty-free shopping is minimal, focusing on basic souvenirs and travel essentials, with better selections available at outbound.
