Airfare from Atlanta to Orlando: How to Find the Best Deals from ATL ✈️
Flying from Atlanta to Orlando is one of the easiest and most popular short routes for Atlanta residents and visitors. Whether you’re planning a family trip to the theme parks, a weekend getaway, or a quick business flight, understanding how airfare from Atlanta to Orlando works can save you time and money.
This guide focuses specifically on travel from Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to the main Orlando-area airports, with practical tips tailored to people living in or traveling through Atlanta, Georgia.
Key Facts About Atlanta–Orlando Flights
Route basics:
- Main Atlanta airport: Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
- Primary Orlando airport: Orlando International Airport (MCO)
- Alternate Orlando-area airport: Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
- Typical flight time: About 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes in the air
- Nonstop flights: Common throughout the day between ATL and MCO
Quick Reference: Typical Airfare Patterns (One-Way, Economy)
| Travel Timing | Typical Price Pattern (One-Way) | Atlanta-Specific Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Far in advance (6–8 weeks out) | Often lowest, more options | Best for flexible Atlantans |
| Last-minute (0–3 days out) | Usually highest | Commonly spikes around weekends & events |
| Weekdays (Tue–Thu) | Often cheaper than weekends | Good for remote workers or flexible schedules |
| Peak holidays/school breaks | Higher, especially to MCO | Orlando is a top family destination from ATL |
Which Orlando Airport Is Best from Atlanta?
Most people in Atlanta flying to the Orlando area use Orlando International Airport (MCO), but it helps to understand your options.
1. Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Why ATL travelers choose MCO:
- Most nonstop options from ATL
- Closest major airport to Disney World, Universal Orlando, and central Orlando
- Wide range of rental cars and shuttles for tourists
If you’re starting from downtown Atlanta, Midtown, Buckhead, or the suburbs, MCO is usually the most straightforward option for vacation or business trips into Orlando.
2. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)
SFB is farther from central Orlando and typically served by fewer airlines from Atlanta, often with more budget-focused or less frequent options.
You might consider SFB if:
- You find a significantly lower fare than to MCO
- You’re staying north or northeast of Orlando (e.g., Deltona, Sanford area)
- You don’t mind a longer drive after landing
For most Atlanta residents heading to theme parks or downtown Orlando, MCO is more convenient.
When Are Airfares from Atlanta to Orlando Cheapest?
Because Atlanta is a major hub and Orlando is a top leisure destination, prices swing depending on timing and demand.
1. Time of Year
From Atlanta, you’ll often see higher fares:
- Spring break season (March–April)
- Summer vacation months (June–early August)
- Major holidays: Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, long weekends
You may see more moderate or lower fares:
- Late August–early October (after summer rush)
- Some weekdays in January–February (excluding holidays)
- Select midweek dates during the school year
If you live in Atlanta and have flexibility, aim for off-peak months and midweek departures for better deals.
2. Day of the Week
From ATL, airfares to Orlando often follow this pattern:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays: Frequently among the cheapest days to fly
- Fridays and Sundays: Often more expensive, especially for weekend trips
- Saturdays: Sometimes moderate, depending on demand
If your schedule allows, a Tuesday–Thursday trip from Atlanta can noticeably cut costs.
3. Time of Day
Flights from ATL to Orlando:
- Early morning departures can sometimes be cheaper and are less prone to cascading delays
- Midday flights are often fairly priced and less crowded than peak times
- Evening flights may vary; some are cheap, others expensive depending on business vs. leisure demand
How to Find the Best Airfare from Atlanta to Orlando
1. Start with Flexibility
If you’re in the Atlanta metro area and not tied to specific dates:
- Check a full month view on your preferred booking site to see which days have the lowest ATL–MCO prices
- Be open to early morning or late evening flights out of ATL
- Consider leaving a day earlier or later than planned to save money
2. Compare Nonstop vs. Connecting Flights
Because ATL is a massive hub, travelers often find:
- Nonstop flights Atlanta → Orlando are plentiful and take about 1.5 hours
- Connecting flights may look slightly cheaper on some days, but often add hours and hassle
For a short route like Atlanta to Orlando, many locals prefer nonstop flights even if they’re a bit more expensive, especially when traveling with kids or tight itineraries.
3. Use Fare Alerts and Watch Trends
Even without naming specific apps, most Atlanta travelers benefit from:
- Turning on fare alerts for ATL → MCO so you’re notified if prices drop
- Checking several days in a row rather than buying instantly, especially if your trip is more than a month away
- Tracking prices around holidays and school breaks early, since Orlando demand from Atlanta is strong during these periods
4. Consider Baggage and Extra Fees
A fare that looks cheap from Atlanta can climb fast once you add:
- Checked bag fees
- Carry-on fees (on some budget carriers)
- Seat selection fees, especially for families wanting to sit together
When comparing options from ATL, think in terms of total trip cost, not just the base airfare.
Airport Logistics in Atlanta: Getting to Your Flight
Because airfare is only part of the puzzle, knowing how to navigate Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) can make your Orlando trip smoother.
1. Getting to ATL from Around Metro Atlanta
Common ways Atlanta travelers reach the airport:
- MARTA Rail:
- The Red and Gold lines go directly to the Airport Station, located inside the Domestic Terminal (North/South).
- Useful if you’re staying in Downtown, Midtown, Buckhead, or near MARTA-connected suburbs.
- Driving & Parking:
- On-site parking options include Economy, Daily, and Park-Ride lots.
- Long-term off-site parking around ATL can reduce costs for multi-day Orlando trips.
- Rideshare & Taxis:
- Dedicated drop-off and pickup locations near the Domestic Terminal.
- Convenient if you live in neighborhoods without easy MARTA access (e.g., parts of East Cobb, Fayetteville, Douglas County).
Allow extra time during Atlanta rush hours, especially if you’re driving from the suburbs to catch a morning or late-afternoon flight to Orlando.
2. Domestics vs. International Terminals
Most flights from Atlanta to Orlando use the Domestic Terminal at ATL.
Address for the Domestic Terminal area:
Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (Domestic)
6000 N Terminal Pkwy
Atlanta, GA 30320
If you accidentally arrive at the International Terminal, you can transfer via the Airport Shuttle that runs between terminals, but it will add time before your Orlando flight.
Choosing Flight Times That Work for Atlanta Travelers
When looking at ATL → Orlando airfare, think about Atlanta’s traffic, airport wait times, and your Orlando plans.
Morning Flights
- Often fewer weather-related delays
- May be cheaper on selected days
- Consider Atlanta’s morning rush hour if you’re driving from areas like Gwinnett, Cobb, or Henry County
Afternoon Flights
- Good if you’re already staying near downtown Atlanta or along MARTA
- Can be impacted by afternoon thunderstorms in the Southeast, especially during summer
Late Evening Flights
- Can sometimes offer lower ATL→MCO fares
- Useful for Orlando weekend getaways after a full Atlanta workday
- Double-check public transit and rideshare availability for getting to ATL and from MCO to your hotel if you arrive late
Atlanta Families Flying to Orlando for Theme Parks
Orlando is one of the top family destinations from Atlanta, especially for:
- Walt Disney World
- Universal Orlando Resort
- SeaWorld Orlando and other attractions
Tips for Atlanta Families
Book early for school breaks and holidays; airfare ATL→MCO rises quickly as prime dates fill.
Consider first morning flights from ATL so kids arrive in Orlando early enough to enjoy the afternoon.
Build in buffer time for:
- Getting through ATL security with kids
- Walking between concourses via the Plane Train
- Bathroom and snack stops before boarding
Because the flight itself is short, many Atlanta parents find nonstop flights well worth a slightly higher fare.
Budgeting for a Trip from Atlanta to Orlando
When planning a trip from Atlanta, think beyond just the airfare:
Costs to Factor In
- Airfare ATL → Orlando (round trip)
- Transportation to ATL (MARTA, parking, rideshare, gas, tolls)
- Baggage and seat fees depending on airline
- Transportation in Orlando (rental car, shuttles, rideshare)
- Accommodation and park tickets if it’s a vacation
Building a full budget helps you understand whether a “cheap” fare from Atlanta is truly the best value once all costs are added.
Practical Booking Tips for Atlanta-Based Travelers
Here are some Atlanta-focused strategies when searching for airfare from Atlanta to Orlando:
Check multiple dates:
Look at at least 3–7 days before and after your ideal dates to spot cheaper ATL→MCO options.Be realistic about ATL timing:
Plan to arrive at Hartsfield‑Jackson at least:- 2 hours before departure for domestic flights during normal periods
- Longer during busy travel seasons or early Monday mornings
Factor in Atlanta traffic:
If you’re coming from Alpharetta, Marietta, Peachtree City, or Lawrenceville, give yourself a generous buffer, especially for weekday mornings.Monitor prices after booking (when allowed):
Some tickets allow changes or credit if prices drop; read your fare rules carefully.Consider travel insurance only when appropriate:
Evaluate based on the cost of your trip, your schedule, and your risk tolerance—especially for big family trips from Atlanta to Orlando theme parks.
Important Atlanta Airport Contacts and Info
For general airport questions, parking, or security guidance:
Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL)
- Address: 6000 N Terminal Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30320
- General Information (main switchboard): 404‑530‑7300
MARTA Customer Service (for airport rail access):
- Main Line: 404‑848‑5000
These contacts can help you confirm terminal info, parking options, or transit details related to your Orlando flight.
Flying from Atlanta to Orlando is simple, fast, and highly competitive on price. By understanding how airfare from ATL to Orlando behaves across seasons, days, and times—and by planning around Atlanta’s traffic, airport layout, and your own schedule—you can reliably find flights that fit both your budget and your travel plans.