Departure from hotel when using ME?

[mysparky]

I know this has probably been asked, and answered, at least 100 times already, but I couldn't find the answer to my question...

I've read that ME picks you up at your resort 3 hours prior to your flight's departure time. Is this a recommendation, or a requirement in order to use the service? I seriously have no interest in arriving at the airport a solid 2 hours prior to departure (I know, I know, that is TSA recommendation) and I'm wondering if there's any flexibility in this.

What are others' experience with this departure time? Have you stuck with the 3 hours, or is there some flexibility?

Thank you!

 

[Nennie]

Based upon your departure flight info, ME will assign you a pick up time (which is usually right around 3 hours before your flight leaves). To my knowledge, there isn't any flexibility with this.

Also, although you will be picked up early, chances are you will be stopping at other resorts before you head off to MCO, so you won't really get there 2 hours early, but yes, you will still be somewhat early.

 

[goofy4tink]

You give them your flight info, they, in turn, tell you what time you will be expected on the bus. No, there really is no wiggle room here. If, on your own, you decide that you don't want to go out on the 2:20 bus, but would rather ride the 3:20 bus, when you show up for that later bus, you may be denied access! Not a chance I'm willing to take. I have yet to have a problem arriving at the airport the recommended 2 hrs before my flight departure. You could get hung up in a hugely long line in security, your bus could have a flat tire...many things can happen. I would rather cool my heels at MCO than worry about being late for my flight.
If you really don't want to leave WDW that 2 3/4 hrs before your flight departure, then perhaps you will be better off hiring a towncar service. You will save about 30 mins that way.