Returning to MCO on Magical Express

[DisneyFanDC]

We have taken ME in the past, and I recall having to leave to head back to the airport much earlier than we normally would. Does anybody know what Disney's standard policy is for return trips to the airports? Is it 4 hours prior to your flight? Thanks so much in advance!

 

[Jestocost]

We have taken ME in the past, and I recall having to leave to head back to the airport much earlier than we normally would. Does anybody know what Disney's standard policy is for return trips to the airports? Is it 4 hours prior to your flight? Thanks so much in advance!

DME will schedule your pick up approximately three hours in advance of your scheduled flight departure for domestic flights and four hours in advance for international flights.

 

[Lewisc]

There was a short period of time (maybe a week) when DME picked up all passengers 4 hours in advance of their flight. There were "issues" at MCO and Disney complied with a request by the airport.

Some posters may be remembering that period and others may be thinking of international flights.

 

[DisneyFanDC]

Thanks so much!

 

[Sandisw]

Just used it yesterday. We had a 10:05 am pick up time for a 12:57 pm flight time, just about 3 hours. By the time we got there, and through security, we were at our gate about an hour before we boarded the flight.

 

[tjmw2727]

Its 3 hours prior and based on my most recent experiences you need all that time. DME may stop at 1 possibly 2 resorts prior to heading to the airport. MCO recommends you arrive at least 2 hours prior to your flight and it is about a 35 minute drive. This puts you at the airport just about at the 2 hour recommendation. I have seen security lines over an hour and some recent reports have baggage check lines at 30/40 minutes.

IMHO I would rather chill at the gate or get a meal or snack while waiting to board than run through the airport stressing about ending my vacation with a missed flight!

TJ