Cruising from Port Canaveral? This New TSA Perk Will Save You Stress

Families heading to Port Canaveral for a cruise will now have one less travel headache to worry about, thanks to a new TSA initiative aimed at making airport security a little smoother for parents traveling with young kids.

Orlando International Airport (MCO) — the closest major airport to Port Canaveral — is one of the first in the country to roll out “Families on the Fly.” This dedicated security program, announced in mid-July, provides special lanes for travelers with children under the age of 12.

These lanes are staffed by TSA agents trained to help with the extra challenges families face, like strollers, car seats, and multiple bags. “This program goes beyond convenience; it’s about addressing the unique needs of traveling families to provide a smoother, more supportive experience,” said Pete Garcia, TSA Federal Security Director for Orlando.

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A Win for Cruisers and Other Travelers

The benefits go both ways. Not only do these family lanes help reduce stress for parents juggling little ones, but they also help keep regular security lines moving by streamlining the screening of bulkier gear like strollers. The program is available at all MCO security checkpoints.

While the setup won’t help with arrival-day travel before your cruise, it’s especially useful for the trip home — when energy (and patience) may be running low after a week at sea. Plus, families can take advantage of discounted TSA PreCheck fees for even faster clearance.

Cruise lines typically recommend booking return flights no earlier than 12–1 p.m., but for those with tighter schedules, the added efficiency could be a game changer.

Expanding Beyond Orlando

Orlando isn’t the only airport to get Families on the Fly. The program is already live at:

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) – Charlotte, NC
John Wayne Airport (SNA) – Orange County, CA
Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) – Honolulu, HI

And more locations are on the way, including:

Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) – Jacksonville, FL
Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) – Providence, RI
Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) – San Juan, Puerto Rico
Tampa International Airport (TPA) – Tampa, FL

That means families flying to and from a variety of cruise homeports — from Long Beach to Honolulu — will soon enjoy a smoother airport experience.

As more airports join the list in the coming months, thousands of cruise passengers traveling with Carnival, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, MSC, Princess, Celebrity, and other lines will be able to start and end their vacations with far less stress.