✈️ Flight Guide: Orlando (MCO) → Washington, D.C. (DCA)

For a domestic flight from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) in November, plan to arrive at least 2 hours before departure. November includes holiday travel spikes (Veterans Day and Thanksgiving week), so add an extra 30–60 minutes during peak travel days to account for longer TSA lines and parking shuttles. Use TSA PreCheck to save time and check live MCO security wait times before leaving.

Yes — there are daily nonstop flights between Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), typically operated by major carriers such as American Airlines and occasionally by Delta or JetBlue with codeshares. Nonstop flights usually take about 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours. For the best nonstop availability in November, book early and monitor schedules for Thanksgiving week when frequencies may increase.

The busiest departure days in November are typically the Wednesday and Sunday surrounding Thanksgiving (last full week of November), plus Veterans Day weekend if observed. Mid-week departures on Tuesday and Wednesday earlier in the month often have lower demand and better fares. Check flexible date search tools to find the cheapest midweek departures from MCO to DCA in November.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers on-site hourly, daily, and economy parking as well as cell phone lots and rideshare pickup zones. In November, expect higher demand for long-term parking during holiday travel; reserve a spot in advance or use shuttle/ride-hail services. Ground options to MCO include rental cars (serviced from the on-airport rental car center), shuttle buses, taxis, and app-based rideshares with designated pickup at Terminal A and Terminal B curbs.

Baggage rules are set by your airline rather than by Orlando International Airport (MCO). Expect standard carry-on and checked baggage policies from carriers like American Airlines, Delta, and JetBlue. During November holiday travel, watch for capacity-based checked bag fees and consider prepaid baggage or priority boarding to secure overhead bin space. Always check your airline's baggage allowance before travel to avoid surprises at the MCO check-in counter.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) generally has mild November weather with lower rain-frequency than summer, so local weather delays are uncommon. However, delays en route can occur due to weather in the Washington, D.C. area (fog, rain, or early-season cold fronts). Check real-time flight status and sign up for airline alerts; consider booking morning departures from MCO to reduce the chance of cascading delays.

The fastest public option from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to downtown Washington, D.C. is the Metrorail via the Yellow and Blue lines (Crystal City station connects via pedestrian tunnel). November weather is usually cool and dry, making rail and rideshare convenient choices. For door-to-door service, rideshares or taxis at the designated DCA pickup zone typically take 10–20 minutes to the National Mall depending on traffic.

Yes. November includes Veterans Day commemorations and early holiday activities in Washington, D.C., which can increase vehicle traffic and security measures near the National Mall and Arlington. Expect occasional road closures and heavier rideshare demand; allow extra time for onward travel and check event schedules. If you need to reach Alexandria or Baltimore after arrival, plan for longer transit times on event days.

Baggage claim at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is located directly below the terminal concourses; clear signage will guide you to car rental shuttles, taxi stands, and the Metro connection. In November, baggage carousels operate normally but may be busier during holiday surge periods; consider expedited baggage options or priority tags if offered by your airline. Follow DCA terminal signs to designated rideshare pickup areas to avoid curbside restrictions.

TSA PreCheck is available for departing passengers, not specifically for arrivals. However, if you booked a same-day return flight from DCA or have PreCheck for your next departure, you will enjoy expedited screening. For arrivals in November, prepare for enhanced security around high-profile events; carry necessary ID and follow any temporary instructions from airport staff.

Yes — DCA connects to regional transportation networks: take the Metrorail to Union Station to transfer to Amtrak or MARC trains toward Baltimore, or use intercity buses from downtown. While DCA itself primarily serves the DMV (D.C., Maryland, Virginia) area, airports reachable nearby include Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), and the DCA-MCO route offers good connections to other East Coast hubs. Allow additional travel time in November for holiday crowds and scheduled maintenance on WMATA or rail lines.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) offers comprehensive accessibility services, including wheelchair assistance, accessible shuttles, and visual/hearing support. Request assistance in advance with your airline or contact DCA customer service upon booking; November holiday periods may require earlier requests to ensure timely support. Check DCA's accessibility pages for specific guidance on mobility devices and service animals.