Orlando Melbourne International Airport

Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) is more than just an air gateway; it is a part of Florida's history. Its journey began in 1928 as a humble refuelling stop for mail planes on a pasture. During World War II, it served as a naval air station, and today it has transformed into a modern, award-winning airport. Recognised as the most scenic airport in North America by PrivateFly.com, MLB offers passengers beautiful views and a comfortable atmosphere, serving as the coastal gateway to Central Florida.

The airport serves as a convenient starting point for exploring the Space Coast and other attractions in the region.

A key advantage of Orlando Melbourne Airport is its compactness and convenience. Unlike major hubs, passengers here can expect a faster passage through all pre-flight formalities, making the start and end of the journey significantly more pleasant. The airport is the closest to Port Canaveral, Kennedy Space Center, and the 72-mile (approx. 115 km) coastline with its famous beaches. This makes it an ideal choice for those planning a cruise or wishing to explore Florida's "Space Coast".

A recent renovation costing $72 million has significantly transformed the airport, adding 86,000 square feet (approx. 8,000 sq m) of new space. Travellers now have access to a modern welcome centre, new boarding gates, an expanded baggage claim area, as well as various restaurants and shops, including Core Plus Duty Free, and the comfortable The Premium Lounge at MLB. Thanks to its location and updated infrastructure, Orlando Melbourne Airport offers an excellent balance between international service standards and the relaxed atmosphere of a small regional hub.

• Official Website: www.mlbair.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 321-723-6227
• Address: One Air Terminal Parkway, Melbourne, FL 32901, USA
• Email: To contact airport representatives, it is recommended to use the contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news on the official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you must contact the airline directly. regarding items left in the airport terminal, please contact Lost and Found at: +1 321-723-6227, ext. 2005.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance, you can call the main airport number: +1 321-723-6227.

Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) is conveniently located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Melbourne, making the journey there quick and simple. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several ways to get to the terminal.

Public Transport is the most economical option. The local bus system, Space Coast Area Transit (SCAT), serves the city and its surroundings. Although this is a budget-friendly method, it may not be the fastest, especially if you require a transfer. A trip from the city centre by bus may take about 30-40 minutes. It is recommended to check schedules and routes on the official SCAT website in advance to plan your journey, as direct routes to the terminal may be limited.

Taxis and Rideshare Services, such as Uber and Lyft, are the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from the centre of Melbourne will take just 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. This is an ideal choice if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or value comfort. The cost of the trip will be higher than the bus but ensures maximum convenience and speed.

Car Rental is an excellent option for those planning to actively travel along Florida's "Space Coast". Offices of all major rental companies are present at MLB airport. You can both pick up and return a rented car directly at the terminal. This gives complete freedom of movement and allows you to easily reach neighbouring cities and attractions.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, convenient parking is provided. Both short-term parking spaces located near the terminal and more budget-friendly long-term parking are available. All parking zones are within walking distance of the airport entrance, which is very convenient for travellers.

Overall, Orlando Melbourne Airport offers good transport accessibility and serves as an excellent, less congested alternative to major regional air hubs, such as Orlando International Airport (MCO), located approximately 75 km away. Other airports, such as Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), are located even further away.

Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure, making it a popular choice for travellers who value comfort and speed. The airport consists of one main terminal that serves both domestic and international flights, saving passengers the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is divided into two main levels. On the lower level is the arrivals area, where baggage claim belts and car rental counters are located. Exits to public transport and taxis are also found here. The upper level is the departures area. Here, passengers check in for flights at airline counters and drop off luggage, after which they proceed to a single security checkpoint.

After passing security control, passengers enter a spacious and bright waiting area (airside), where the boarding gates are located. All gates are situated in one concourse, so navigation causes no difficulties. Since there is only one terminal, transfers between terminals are not required. This is one of the key advantages of MLB — all infrastructure is within walking distance.

The time taken to pass through pre-flight formalities at Orlando Melbourne Airport is generally significantly less than at major international hubs. Check-in and screening processes usually take little time thanks to the compact size of the terminal and efficient organisation. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before domestic flights and 2–3 hours before international flights to complete all procedures without rushing.

For easy navigation, follow the signs that are clearly visible throughout the building. The airport is modern and clean, with a sufficient number of cafes and shops in the departure zone. Its compactness makes it an ideal choice for families with children and travellers wishing to avoid the stress and long queues typical of large airports.

The history of Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) is a fascinating journey from a humble airfield to an important transport and industrial hub. The airport was founded in 1928 as a small field for landing aircraft. However, its key stage of development occurred during World War II. During this period, it was transferred to the US Navy and turned into Naval Air Station Melbourne. It was then that the main runways and infrastructure were built, laying the foundation for its future growth.

After the war ended, in 1947, the airbase was returned to the city and became a civilian airport. In the 1960s, with the advent of the jet age, the airport began receiving flights from major airlines such as Eastern and National Airlines, which contributed to its active development. Proximity to the Kennedy Space Center played an important role in its history: the airport became a key point for personnel and cargo related to the American space programme, especially during the era of Apollo missions and Shuttle launches.

In the 1990s, the airport received international status following the opening of a customs and border post, allowing it to accept flights from abroad. In subsequent decades, the terminal was modernised repeatedly to meet growing passenger traffic. One notable event in recent history was the name change to Orlando Melbourne International Airport, undertaken to attract tourists heading to Orlando's theme parks.

Today, Melbourne Airport is not only a passenger terminal but also a major centre for the aviation and aerospace industry. Its territory hosts manufacturing and design centres for giants such as Embraer, Northrop Grumman, and Collins Aerospace. This symbiosis of commercial transport and high technology makes it a unique facility that has gone from a simple flying field to a modern multifunctional aviation complex.

Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped and thoughtfully designed so that your journey begins and ends without unnecessary hassle.

Within the airport, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a quick snack with a sandwich and coffee or a full meal. For those wishing to shop, there are stores offering souvenirs, press, as well as travel essentials. It is a great place to buy last-minute gifts or simply pass the time before departure.

For passengers who need to stay connected or work, the airport provides free Wi-Fi. Convenient charging stations for electronic devices are located throughout the terminal, so you need not worry about low battery on your smartphone or laptop. The airport also offers business centre services and conference rooms for holding business meetings.

If you prefer to wait for your flight in a calmer atmosphere, a VIP lounge is at your service. Here you can relax in comfortable armchairs and enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks away from the noise of the main hall. Access to the lounge is usually provided to business class passengers or for a separate fee.

Basic financial services are also available in the terminal: you can find ATMs and currency exchange points. In case of need, first aid services are provided at the airport to ensure the safety and health of all travellers.

Orlando Melbourne Airport cares for all categories of passengers. A barrier-free environment has been created for travellers with limited mobility, including ramps and specially equipped toilets. Families with small children can use the mother and child rooms, where it is convenient to change and feed a baby in a quiet setting.

For those with an early departure or a long layover, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. This allows you to rest in comfort without spending much time travelling to the terminal.

At Orlando Melbourne International Airport (MLB), passengers will find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. Despite its compact size, the airport offers establishments for every taste and budget, located both before and after the security checkpoint.

In the main terminal area, before passing security control (landside), the Market on the Run cafe operates. This is an excellent place for those seeing off or meeting passengers, as well as for travellers arriving at the airport well in advance. Here you can quickly have coffee with fresh pastries, grab a sandwich, or a soft drink.

The main dining establishments are located in the departure zone, after passing security control (airside). The focus is on the Tap & Pour restaurant and bar, offering a full menu. This is an ideal place for those who want to have a leisurely lunch or dinner before departure. They serve classic American dishes: burgers, salads, soups, and hot appetisers. Additionally, there are counters in the departure zone where you can buy light snacks, water, and other drinks to take on board.

If you want to try something with local flavour, pay attention to the special offers on the Tap & Pour menu. Sometimes you can find dishes inspired by Florida cuisine, such as fish tacos or seafood sandwiches. For those looking for vegetarian or gluten-free options, salads and some other dishes are usually available, but it is best to check with the staff. The selection of Halal or vegan dishes may be limited.

Prices in MLB airport establishments are consistent with standard airport levels — slightly higher than in the city. The opening hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning to serve passengers on the first flights and close after the last plane departs. Thus, you will always have the opportunity to have a snack, regardless of your flight time.

To ensure your journey through Orlando Melbourne International Airport is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, please review our useful tips. These recommendations will help you save time, money, and nerves.

Arrival Time: The standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This will give you a sufficient buffer for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control, especially during peak hours.

Check-in and Security: Online check-in, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure, will significantly speed up the process. Have your passport and boarding pass ready when passing TSA screening. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your carry-on luggage. Do not forget the liquid restrictions to avoid wasting time repacking items.

Carry-on Luggage: All liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in a single transparent resealable bag. It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Be sure to check your airline's weight and size limits for carry-on luggage.

Seat Selection: Want to admire the clouds and views during takeoff and landing? Choose a window seat. Prefer the freedom to stand up and stretch your legs? Then your choice is an aisle seat. Emergency exit row seats offer more space but impose certain responsibilities on the passenger.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, check the information board immediately upon arrival for the gate number of your next plane — it may have changed. Clarify if you need to collect and re-check your luggage, which is often required when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one within the USA.

Customs Control: When arriving from another country, you will have to pass customs control. Complete the customs declaration honestly and in advance (if required). Be prepared to answer the border officer's questions about the purpose of your trip and declare all goods purchased abroad.

Saving Time and Money: If you are driving to the airport in a private car, book parking online in advance — it is often cheaper. Bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it with water at drinking fountains after passing security control to avoid overpaying for drinks.

In Case of Flight Delay: First, contact your airline representative to find out the flight status and your rights to compensation (meals, drinks, hotel for long delays). Use the airport's free Wi-Fi to notify those meeting you about changes in the schedule and find something to do while waiting.