Direct Flights from Houston (IAH) to Orlando (MCO): Travel Guide & Best Fares

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May 2026FrontierIAHMCO

Last updated Feb 16, 2026

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Tracking the May 7, 2026 departure — the cheapest date we found.

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Houston (IAH)

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Orlando (MCO)

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Traveling from the energy capital of the world to the theme park capital is one of the most popular domestic routes in the United States. Whether you are planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios or heading to Central Florida for a major business conference, flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Orlando International Airport (MCO) offer a seamless connection between these two massive southern hubs. With a flight time of just under two and a half hours, you can transition from the humid Gulf Coast plains of Houston to the sunny, lake-filled landscapes of Orlando in no time at all, making it an ideal choice for both long summer vacations and quick weekend getaways for families and solo travelers alike.

Travel Tips

First, consider booking mid-week flights on Tuesdays or Wednesdays to avoid the heavy weekend surcharge often seen with family travelers heading to Florida's world-famous resorts. Second, since both Houston and Orlando are prone to sudden, heavy afternoon thunderstorms, especially during the summer months, aim for an early morning departure to minimize the risk of weather-related delays or missed connections. Third, pack light but always bring a light sweater; while the humidity outside is notoriously high in both cities, the air conditioning in Orlando's theme parks and Houston's airport terminals is consistently kept at very chilly levels. Finally, download the MyTSA app to monitor security wait times at IAH, as the terminals can become quite congested during peak business travel hours, particularly on Monday mornings and Thursday evenings.

Airport Information

Houston (IAH)

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) serves as a major international hub for United Airlines and is one of the busiest airports in the state of Texas. Located approximately 23 miles north of downtown Houston, it features five terminals linked by an efficient underground train system and an above-ground Skyway. Travelers can enjoy a wide variety of Texas-inspired dining options, local boutiques, and rotating art installations while waiting for their departure.

Orlando (MCO)

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the primary gateway to Central Florida’s world-renowned attractions and resorts. Known for its iconic landside terminal and airside pods connected by automated people movers, MCO offers a unique tropical atmosphere complete with indoor palm trees and a massive Hyatt Regency hotel located right inside the main terminal building. It is conveniently situated just a short drive from the major resort areas and the Orange County Convention Center.

Seasonal Pricing Patterns

Airfare between IAH and MCO fluctuates significantly based on school holiday schedules and major events. Prices typically peak during the Spring Break window in March and throughout the winter holiday season in late December when families flock to the theme parks. Conversely, you can often find the lowest fares during the late summer months of August and September, as well as the weeks immediately following New Year's Day. While these periods offer great savings, be mindful of the peak hurricane season which can impact flight reliability in late summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the flight from Houston (IAH) to Orlando (MCO)?

The average flight time for a direct journey from IAH to MCO is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.

Which airlines offer direct flights on this route?

United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Southwest Airlines frequently offer non-stop service between these two cities.

Is there a time difference between Houston and Orlando?

Yes, Orlando is in the Eastern Time Zone, which is one hour ahead of Houston's Central Time Zone.

What is the best way to get from MCO to the theme parks?

Most travelers utilize ride-share services like Uber or Lyft, rental cars, or pre-arranged shuttle services such as Mears Connect to reach the resort areas.

How early should I arrive at IAH for my flight to Orlando?

It is generally recommended to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time to account for security lines and the transit time between terminals.

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