Darren Wittko 9/24/23 Darren Wittko 9/24/23

How to Use Mears Connect Service Between Orlando International and Walt Disney World

Mears Connect Standard Service - Standard Service is a shared ride service, similar to Magical Express, on a Mears Connect coach bus or van. The shuttle makes limited stops at a few other hotels along the way.

Mears Express Service Express Service is a direct route between MCO and your Disney World hotel, typically in a van. This is similar to hiring a town car.

Mears Transportation is the leader in airport transfers between Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World Resort. It was Mears who operated Disney’s Magical Express Service for Disney World when it began in 2005. When Disney canceled the complimentary shuttle program in 2022, Mears changed their name to Mears Connect and removed the Disney World livery from all buses.

Mears has many years of experience shuttling guests between the airport and Walt Disney World. They even bought out their competition, Sunshine Flyer, which lasted only 16 months in Orlando.

Let’s take a look at how Mears Connect operates today.

Mears Transporation Shuttle Service between Orlando International and Walt Disney World — Mears Connect buses waiting for passengers at Orlando International Terminal B

Mears Connect provides 2 airport shuttle options:

Standard (shared) Service
Express (private) Service

Mears Connect Standard Service

Standard Service is a shared ride service, similar to Magical Express, on a Mears Connect coach bus or van.

The shuttle makes limited stops at a few other hotels along the way.

Mears Express Service

Express Service is a direct route between MCO and your Disney World hotel, typically in a van. This is similar to hiring a town car.

Mears Shuttle Orlando — Mears Connect Orlando

Frequently Asked Questions about Mears Connect

Are car seats provided?

Florida law does not require car seats in coach buses. Mears will store your car seat in the luggage area of the motor coach if you have one. Car seats are not permitted inside the bus.

Car seats can be used in Mears Express vans. You’re welcome to use your own or request a car seat in advance.

Do I retrieve my own luggage at the airport?

You will need to stop at baggage claim to retrieve your checked luggage.

Once you have your bags, you will proceed to the Mears Welcome Center on the Ground transportation level.

Where do I board Mears Connect at Orlando International?

Terminal A: Go to Level 2 if you have checked bags and pick up your luggage. Then go up to Level 3, and cross over to the B-Side of the airport. Then go down to Level 1 and locate the Mears Welcome Center. (Just follow signs for Ground Transportation on the B-Side).

Terminal B: Go to Level 2 if you have checked bags and pick up your luggage. Then go down to Level 1 and locate the Mears Welcome Center.

Terminal C: Go to Level 6 if you have checked bags and pick up your luggage. Then go down to Level 1 and locate the Mears Welcome Center.

Mears Connect Check in area Terminal C Orlando International — Mears check in area at Terminal C inside Orlando International Airport.

When will Mears Connect pick us up for the return flight?

Your resort departure time is scheduled based on your scheduled flight departure time and will be printed on your confirmation.

Mears will pick you up approximately 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight time for domestic flights and about 4 hours prior for international flights.

You should be at the pickup location 15 minutes prior to allow time to load luggage and get everyone onboard in time.

Pick-up locations are located outside the lobby at Disney World hotels.

Will wheelchairs be accommodated?

Yes, Standard and Express service will be able to accommodate wheelchairs.

Be sure to mention this when making your reservation or let your travel advisor know in advance.

Do you tip Mears Drivers?

Yes, it’s customary to tip your driver for good service.

According to Mears, most people give 10% to coach bus drivers and 20% to van, drivers.

Is Mears cheaper than Uber and Lyft?

A typical ride-share service will cost about $40 - $60 each way. But this doesn’t include surge pricing in Orlando or Uber Car Seat. Both add significant costs to your fare. Read more about using ride-share services in Orlando here ▸

Mears Connect generally works out better because you won’t have to deal with car seats or wait for a car that can fit your party size.

Uber drivers have various skills. While I believe they have good intentions, some don’t know their way around Disney World property too well. I had Uber cars in Orlando that smelled unpleasant or never showed up only to cancel on me.

While a Mears shuttle might take longer than Uber, it’s a far more consistent and professional service.

How do I reserve a ride on Mears Connect?

Your Disney travel advisor can make your reservation for you. Just provide your airline and flight numbers. You can book directly on the Mears Transportation website

Mears Connect Phone Number

(407) 423-5566

What are the operating hours for Mears Connect?

Mears is a 24/7 service. In cases where your flight gets in very late due to a delay, Mears will probably send you to Disney in one of their taxis or vans when you arrive rather than a coach bus.