Orlando International Airport recently opened a new multimillion dollar terminal housing JetBlue, international airlines and a Brightline rail station. Terminal C opened September 20, 2022. There are multiple shops and eateries sprawled throughout the concourse. At the moment, only a single airline lounge, Plaza Premium occupies terminal C. The Plaza Premium Lounge Orlando Terminal C will be reviewed, seeing how the lounge compares to other airline lounges.
Who Can Access Plaza Premium Lounges
Plaza Premium Lounge at Orlando MCO is located post security in Terminal C Palm Court. Hours of operation are from 11AM to 9PM. The lounge can be accessed through many channels including:
- A credit card from CapitalOne (Venture X, Venture, Spark Miles) or American Express (Platinum, Business Platinum).
- Priority Pass membership.
- First and business class passengers on select airlines.
- A one time pass (Fee).
First Impressions
On the same level as the Palm Court area is a reception desk to check into the lounge. After presenting the Priority Pass membership card boarding passes were stamped. Stairs and an adjacent elevator lead to the main lounge area on the second level. Upon reaching the second level, the lounge is divided into two main areas. The first area has a large space for children and various seating arrangements. The second half of the lounge is the main area comprising of restrooms, the buffet, bar and seating areas. Overall, both spaces have a bright and welcoming atmosphere with modern furnishings and large windows.
Buffet Options
Located in the far corner of the lounge is the buffet area. During this visit the buffet consisted of, fruit salads, macaroni salads, rice, beef and grilled vegetables. Sweets such as cookies are located near the buffet area. Complimentary soft drinks and coffee are located adjacent to the buffet area.
Lounge Seating
During this particular visit, the lounge began filling up quickly as afternoon international passengers started entering the lounge. There are various seating options that include some chairs with small tables in the first half of the lounge which includes a kids area. In the main lounge area are tables that can accommodate four people, booths and high top tables by the bar. High top tables and some booth seating is equipped with power outlets. The bar area has a large amount of seating which soon became fully occupied. Towards the rear of the lounge is more seating that is a bit secluded and away from the main busier section of the lounge.
Final Boarding Call
Overall, the Plaza Premium Lounge in Orlando MCO Terminal C has many strengths. The buffet has a fresh selection with plenty of options including vegetarian. The atmosphere of the lounge was modern and fresh with warm and light colors. Furniture was in clean condition and working order. If traveling with children, the kids area is a great space for them to pass the time. Lounge overcrowding is becoming an issue across all types and brands of lounge. During this visit, the lounge became crowded with nearly every seat filling up as international flights were soon departing leading to a large amount of business class passengers entering. More passengers began entering as flights started becoming delayed due to thunderstorms. In spite of this, staff came by to take dirty plate ware multiple times. Overall, the Plaza Premium Lounge Orlando MCO is average in terms of amenities yet is a relaxing experience. Just be sure to get there before the afternoon rush.