Read about Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) in 2000 words here

Introduction

The Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is a medium-sized airport serving the central Florida community of Sanford. Converted from a World War II-era naval air station, SFB is now an important commercial airport in the region that offers easy access to both Orlando and Central Florida.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is the region's major airport facility. Sanford-Orlando International has carved out a unique market of its own by providing an alternative to passengers who appreciate convenience and small-airport ambiance along with access to multiple high-demand air carriers. No worries, we have you covered with this guide to the ins and outs of SFB whether you are coming here for business, pleasure, or just passing through.

Airlines and Destinations

The most common carrier at SFB is Allegiant Air, for which the airport is a focus city. Nonstop service is available to more than 50 destinations in the United States, with popular vacation spots like Las Vegas, Punta Gorda, and Myrtle Beach among them. Seasonal international flights are also operated to and from Paramaribo, Suriname (Surinam Airways) as well as mainly European destinations (TUI Airways).

While not as vast a network of destinations as MCO, SFB continues to grow its schedule, offering travelers more choices and flexibility when planning their trips in and out of Orlando.

Passengers / Flights

Over 2.5 million passengers flowed through SFB in 2021, and the airport has emerged as a major air service provider of choice for many across Central Florida. Passenger traffic has increasingly expanded at the airport in recent years, primarily from growth by Allegiant Air.

The airport experiences a mixed operations environment every day, from daily commercial airline flight enplanements to on-demand private and charter flying paired with general aviation activity. Each day, the airport can accommodate up to a million aircraft movements with its four runways and effective design, keeping departures and arrivals running like clockwork.

How to Get Here

Since the airport is right off one of Orlando's major highways (I-4), getting to SFB should be relatively simple. The airport is accessible by car and offers extensive parking facilities which are connected directly to the terminal buildings.

The Lynx bus system provides routes linking SFB with destinations throughout the region, such as downtown Orlando and the International Drive tourist corridor for those using public transportation. Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft also offer a quick ride to the airport.

Parking

There are many parking choices available at SFB, catering to different travelers. A multifunctional short-term parking building, a city with garages near the terminals, both long-term and for about half an hour. For those who want a more budget-friendly option, there are also surface lots, including an economy lot.

SFB typically offers much lower parking rates than MCO, so it is a more budget-friendly option for fliers looking to keep travel costs down. Pre-booking and online payment options are available to travelers, who can also reserve their parking in advance to avoid the hassle of last-minute on-the-spot bookings.

Transportation Pricing

If you have luggage or are part of a larger group, taxis and ridesharing services can be an easy way to get to SFB. Airport transfers are usually via prearranged taxis, which cost an average of $40 to $60 for a cab between the airport and downtown Orlando, or rideshare providers Uber/Lyft with fares as low as just above $30.

However, for travelers on more of a budget, the Lynx bus system provides a much cheaper option than using Mears transport, with single fares from $2 one way. There are also shuttle services with rates at a more reasonable price, offering shared rides to multiple destinations in the area.

Terminal Layout

SFB is a small airport, with only two terminals: Terminal A and Terminal B (linked by a free shuttle). The airport features passenger amenities, including check-in counters, security checkpoints, and baggage claim areas for each terminal.

It is uncomplicated to get around the airport and find your way to your gate, as there is nothing too fancy about the terminal layout. There are clear signs everywhere, and staff are on hand to assist or direct people as needed.

Navigate the Airport

SFB is very user-friendly and easy to navigate around with a well-structured layout. After this, the passengers can follow appropriate instructions to proceed towards other terminals and gates. If needed, the airport's shuttle service runs every 10-15 minutes from one terminal to the other.

Each terminal is easy to navigate thanks to clear directories and maps at each one — so travelers have no problem finding eateries, stores, or bathrooms. It also provides the passengers a means to keep connected and access live flight information over the airport's free Wi-Fi network.

Getting Between Terminals

SFB's free airport shuttle makes it easy to journey between the terminals. The shuttle departs approximately every 10-15 minutes and only takes about 5 minutes to get from Terminal A to Terminal B.

The pick-up and drop-off routes at each terminal for this shuttle service are well-indicated, allowing passengers to utilize it. This is an effective mode of travel that was introduced with the motive that travelers can move between terminals without any problem, especially when they are catching flights.

Services and Amenities

Although SFB might not have all the exceptional activities and amenities of the larger MCO, travelers can still expect basic services to make their trip more comfortable. The terminals are not only heightened with safety and security measures, but once through the screening lines, passengers will also find free Wi-Fi in all facilities along with a range of both food/beverage and retail options.

Food & Beverage

The airport menu has a mix of casual eateries, coffee outlets, and grab-and-go options to cater to the variety of tastes as well as dietary needs. SFB also has shops where travelers can buy snacks, souvenirs, and other travel essentials like news and convenience items.

Restaurants and Shops

The dining and shopping experience at SFB is limited compared to MCO, but the airport has enough options for passengers. In Terminal A, customers can purchase food items from Starbucks and a family-friendly eatery. A sports bar and a grab-and-go eatery are also located in Terminal B.

For the last-minute souvenir hunters, a news and gift shop are available in every terminal with reading materials, travel necessities, and local paraphernalia to browse over.

Security and Customs

Going through the security checkpoint at SFB is usually easy and efficient. There are plenty of well-organized security screening areas at the airport, all facilitated by helpful TSA agents.

SFB also provides customs and immigration programs for international travelers, making the arrival process much more convenient than larger airports. The customs hall is situated in the airport building, so travelers are able to clear immigration and retrieve their luggage before heading on.

Accessibility

At SFB, we strive to create an inclusive experience for all guests and are here to assist our customers or patrons with disabilities. The airport has ADA parking spaces, paths of travel, and elevators for easy movement around the terminal.

Any passenger in need of assistance will be helped by specially trained staff at the airport. In addition to services for travelers with disabilities, SFB includes wheelchair-accessible restrooms and animal relief areas.

Travel Tips

• Reserve parking in advance to get the best rates and availability.
• Check in, security, and boarding usually take a long time, so make sure you get to the airport at least 2 hours before your flight.
• Please consult your airline's website for up-to-date terminal assignments and gate locations.
• Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to get real-time updates on your flight.
• Learn about SFB airport information, layout, and amenities to help you make the most of your time at Sanford Orlando.
• Consider the distance between the airport and tourist spots, so if you are heading to Orlando, do your location research well.

By using these tips along with the great features at SFB, travelers will be able to experience a seamless travel process during their visit to this bustling airport.