Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
Overview: December at Kansas City International Airport (MCI) combines holiday peaks with potential winter weather impacts. Popular nearby origin cities served by MCI include Kansas City, Overland Park, Independence, and nearby Midwest travelers from Topeka or Columbia who connect via MCI. Popular destinations from MCI in December include Orlando (for holiday theme-park travel), Dallas, Chicago, Denver, and Atlanta. Operational Tips: Arrive earlier than usual for check-in and security during holiday weekends; expect TSA lines to be heavier on Dec 20–26 and Dec 28–31. Monitor local weather forecasts for snow or ice that could affect departure slots. Consider TSA PreCheck and reserve parking in advance. Booking & Deals: For cheap flights MCI to MCO in December, target early December travel windows or travel dates right after Christmas (Dec 27–29) for better pricing. Set fare alerts and compare nonstop vs. connecting options — sometimes a single-connection itinerary through Atlanta or Dallas reduces cost. CTA: Search and book MCI to MCO December fares now and set up price alerts to catch holiday sales.
December is a high-demand holiday month on the Kansas City International Airport (MCI) to Orlando International Airport (MCO) route. Expect busier terminals, fuller flights, and higher fares around peak travel dates (roughly Dec 20–26 and Dec 28–31). Book early, enroll in TSA PreCheck if available, and allow extra time for parking and check-in during holiday events.
Yes — several carriers operate nonstop or one-stop options between Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) in December, though frequencies increase or decrease by airline and holiday demand. Southwest commonly offers nonstop service, and other carriers provide direct or single-connection itineraries; check schedules early and book direct flights if you want to minimize delays.
Nonstop flight time between Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) is typically about 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes, depending on winds and routing. One-stop itineraries add layover time; always check total travel time when choosing flights in December, as winter weather or holiday congestion can add delays.
Kansas City International Airport (MCI) offers short-term and long-term parking, off-airport lots, rideshare pick-up points, and rental car facilities; December holiday travelers should reserve long-term parking early or consider off-site lots to save money. Many travelers use ride-shares or airport shuttles to avoid limited curb space during busy holiday weekends.
For December, search and monitor fares early, set price alerts, be flexible on travel dates (early December or after Dec 26 often cheaper), and compare carriers like Southwest, American, Delta, and United. Booking midweek flights, using points or fare sales, and considering one-stop itineraries can yield lower prices — act on deals quickly as holiday inventory sells out.
Midwest winter storms and snow can affect Kansas City International Airport (MCI) operations in December, sometimes causing delays or cancellations that ripple to Orlando flights. Monitor airline alerts, check both MCI and MCO airport status, and allow a buffer day for connections if traveling around major snow events or heavy travel dates.
Overview: December arrivals at Orlando International Airport (MCO) are driven by holiday tourism, cruises, and winter escapes. Travelers coming from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) should anticipate busy baggage claim and pick-up areas, especially around peak holiday dates. Getting Around: Pre-book shared shuttles or private transfers to reach Kissimmee, Walt Disney World, or Cocoa Beach. Rideshare pickup points are clearly marked but expect wait times during evening arrival surges. Car rental counters are busy — reserve vehicles and pick-up windows in advance. Holiday Events & Nearby Destinations: December brings seasonal events across Orlando and nearby cities like Tampa and Daytona Beach. If visiting theme parks, book attraction and holiday event passes early. CTA: Reserve your MCO transfers and theme-park tickets for December to avoid sold-out dates.
Arrivals at Orlando International Airport (MCO) in December are typically busy due to holiday tourism and seasonal events like holiday parades and theme-park festivities. Expect fuller immigration lines (for international arrivals), baggage waits, and crowded ground transportation areas; plan extra time for rideshares, shuttles, or rental car pick-up when traveling to nearby destinations like Kissimmee, Disney World, or Tampa.
Yes — Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers shuttle services, shared ride vans, and private transfers to major theme parks and resort areas like Kissimmee, Lake Buena Vista, Walt Disney World, and Universal Orlando. December demand increases, so pre-book shuttles and reserve rental cars early to guarantee availability and lock in rates.
As of December, travelers should follow current CDC and local Florida health recommendations; most domestic travelers are not subject to mandatory testing, but airlines and venues may have updated policies. Carry proof of vaccination or negative tests only if required for specific carriers or international connections, and check theme park entry rules which can change through the holiday season.
The busiest arrival periods at Orlando International Airport (MCO) are mid-December through Christmas week and the days between Christmas and New Year's Eve, especially late afternoons and early evenings when many flights from the Midwest and Northeast touch down. If you prefer shorter waits, arrive early morning or opt for late-night flights after peak check-in windows.
Delays at Orlando International Airport (MCO) in December are often due to inbound weather in origin cities (like snow in the Midwest) and terminal congestion from holiday arrivals. While Florida weather is usually mild, the main risk is cascading delays from other hubs; monitor flight status and consider booking flights earlier in the day to reduce delay risk.
From Orlando International Airport (MCO) you can easily access Orlando, Kissimmee, Walt Disney World Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, Tampa, Daytona Beach, and Cape Canaveral for holiday events and cruises. December is prime season for holiday-themed attractions like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Universal’s Holiday Parade, so plan transfers early and pre-book tickets.
Kansas City December highlights: Plaza Lights holiday kickoff on the Country Club Plaza, Kansas City Symphony holiday concerts, and holiday markets across downtown KC. These local events can increase outbound traffic from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) in early evenings and weekends. Orlando December highlights: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays, Universal Orlando’s Holiday Parade, ICE! at Gaylord Palms, and cruise departures from Port Canaveral — all contributing to high arrival volume at Orlando International Airport (MCO). CTA: Book airport transfers and event tickets early for December to secure preferred times and pricing.
Best windows: Early December (Dec 1–17) and the week after Christmas (starting Dec 27) typically offer the best combination of lower fares and fewer crowds. Avoid the peak shipping/holiday congestion around Dec 20–26 and Dec 29–31. Time of day: Book early morning flights to minimize disruption from delayed inbound aircraft. Days of week: Midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) usually have the lowest prices and shorter airport lines. CTA: Check flight calendars for December flexibility and shift dates a day or two to reduce cost.
Nonstop advantage: Nonstop flights from Kansas City International Airport (MCI) to Orlando International Airport (MCO) reduce the risk of missed connections and are preferable during December when weather-related delays in the Midwest can cascade. Connecting advantage: Connecting itineraries are often cheaper and offer more schedule variety; if you’re price sensitive and not traveling on a strict schedule, a single-connection flight via hubs like Atlanta or Dallas may save money. Recommendation: For holiday travel or tight schedules, prioritize nonstop; for savings and flexible itineraries, choose one-stop options but build in extra connection time.
Major carriers: Southwest often provides frequent nonstop service and includes two free checked bags, making it a popular choice for families traveling to Orlando. Delta, American, and United offer one-stop options and loyalty program benefits; full-service fares can include seat selection and checked luggage depending on fare class. Price vs. convenience: Southwest and select nonstop options generally cost more but save time and reduce connection risk during December. CTA: Compare fares across carriers and filter for nonstop options or baggage allowances to find the best match for your December trip.
Packing & clothing: Dress in layers — you may leave a cold Kansas City (possibly snowy) and arrive in mild or warm Orlando; pack a lightweight jacket and sunscreen for Florida. Baggage & documentation: Pre-pay or verify baggage allowance to save time at check-in; carry a printed or digital copy of theme-park tickets and reservations to avoid lines at arrivals. Weather preparedness: Watch Kansas City-area snow forecasts that could delay departures; consider travel insurance or flexible tickets if traveling around major storms. Airport timing: Arrive at least 90–120 minutes for domestic departures during December and allow extra time for parking and shuttle transfers. CTA: Print or save important confirmations and check both MCI and MCO airport status the morning of travel to stay ahead of delays.
Typical flight time: Nonstop flights between Kansas City International Airport (MCI) and Orlando International Airport (MCO) average about 2 hours 50 minutes to 3 hours 10 minutes. Schedule frequency: Several daily nonstop options often run on major carriers, with increased frequencies around holiday weekends. Best times to fly in December: Early mornings (5–9 AM departures) tend to have fewer delays since they’re less affected by earlier network disruptions; avoid late afternoon and evening holiday peak slots. For multi-stop itineraries, allow at least 90–120 minutes for domestic connections in December to account for possible weather or congestion.
Booking window: For December travel, book as early as possible—ideally 2–3 months ahead—or monitor discounts that can appear in early December for travel outside the tight holiday window. Best days: Tuesdays and Wednesdays often have better fares; flying on Dec 4–17 or after Dec 26 typically reduces ticket prices. Flexible date tips: Use flexible date search tools to compare departures by day; being willing to fly early morning or late evening improves chances of savings. Cheap routing: Consider one-stop itineraries through major hubs (Atlanta, Dallas Fort Worth, Chicago) for lower rates, but weigh the added risk of connection delays. CTA: Set up fare alerts for 'Kansas City International Airport (MCI) to Orlando International Airport (MCO)' and book quickly when a sale appears.