Shannon to Orlando (SNN–MCO) — Airlines, Schedules & Connections

Irish passport holders enter the United States visa-free under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for stays up to 90 days. An approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is required before boarding. The ESTA costs $21, is valid for 2 years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first), and covers multiple entries. Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov at least 72 hours before departure, though most approvals come within minutes.

Passport must be an ePassport (biometric chip, all current Irish passports qualify). No supporting documents are formally required for ESTA approval, but CBP officers at the port of entry may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation details, and sufficient funds. The 90-day VWP stay cannot be extended and does not allow a change of immigration status. If you need more than 90 days, apply for a B-1/B-2 visa at the US Embassy in Dublin (MRV fee $185, interview wait times vary from 1 to 6 weeks).

Direct flights from Dublin to the US serve New York (JFK/EWR), Boston, Chicago, Washington Dulles, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and several others, running 7 to 10 hours. Shannon also has direct US routes. US Customs and Border Protection preclearance operates at Dublin and Shannon, meaning you clear US immigration before boarding and arrive as a domestic passenger. The US dollar is the only currency. No vaccination requirements for Irish arrivals.

Brightline trains depart from Terminal C to Fort Lauderdale (3h, from $30) and Miami (3.5h, from $30); this is the only intercity rail option from the airport. For Walt Disney World or International Drive, ride-hails cost $25–40 and take 20–30 minutes. Mears Connect shuttle buses serve the major resort areas (from $16 per person).Taxis are metered and available at Ground Transportation. Rental car agencies are in the Terminal B intermodal center; accessible by Automated People Mover from both Terminal A and Terminal C. All five theme park areas offer resort shuttle services but these require pre-booking.

Subtropical climate, warm to hot year-round. Summer (June–September) is the most disruptive season: daily afternoon thunderstorms arrive with near-clockwork timing and frequently cause ground stops at MCO, often delaying 3–4pm banks of departures. Heat and humidity can top 35°C with heat index over 40°C. Lightning density in central Florida is among the highest in the United States.

Hurricane season (June–November) brings occasional tropical systems. Orlando sits far enough inland to avoid direct storm surge but tropical downpours cause significant disruption. Winters are mild (10–22°C) with low humidity and minimal rain. January–March is the most flight-stable period.