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Chicago Airports Guide
Chicago is served by two major international airports, each serving different types of flights and airlines. O'Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, while Midway offers convenient access to downtown.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
ORD
Location: 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago
Best for: International flights, major airlines, business travel
Transport: Blue Line 'L' train, airport shuttles, taxis, rental cars
Airlines: United, American, Delta, international carriers
Terminals: 4 terminals connected by people mover and walkways
Midway International Airport (MDW)
MDW
Location: 8 miles southwest of downtown Chicago
Best for: Domestic flights, low-cost carriers, leisure travel
Transport: Orange Line 'L' train, shuttles, taxis, rental cars
Airlines: Southwest, Delta, Porter, Volaris
Features: Closer to downtown, easier navigation
Choosing Between O'Hare and Midway
- O'Hare (ORD): Better for international travel, more flight options, major airline hubs
- Midway (MDW): Closer to downtown, typically cheaper domestic flights, less crowded
- Transport Time: ORD to downtown: 45-60 minutes; MDW to downtown: 25-35 minutes
- Consider: Flight availability, price, final destination in Chicago, and time of day
Best Time to Book Flights to Chicago
When to Book for the Best Prices
- Book domestic flights 3-8 weeks in advance for optimal pricing
- For international flights, book 2-4 months ahead
- For peak seasons (summer, holidays), book 3-6 months in advance
- Consider flying on weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) for lower fares
- Set price alerts to monitor fare changes for your preferred travel dates
- Be flexible with your travel dates by 2-3 days to find better deals
Best Time to Visit Chicago
- Spring (April-June): Mild weather, blooming parks, outdoor festivals begin
- Summer (July-August): Warm temperatures, lake activities, major festivals, highest prices
- Fall (September-October): Pleasant weather, beautiful foliage, moderate crowds
- Winter (November-March): Cold temperatures, holiday markets, lowest prices
Airlines That Fly to Chicago
Chicago is a major aviation hub with numerous domestic and international carriers serving both O'Hare and Midway airports.
Major Airlines (Primarily O'Hare)
- United Airlines (Largest carrier at ORD with global network)
- American Airlines (Major hub with extensive domestic and international routes)
- Delta Air Lines (Significant presence with global connections)
- Lufthansa (Direct flights to Frankfurt and Munich)
- British Airways (Multiple daily flights to London)
- Air Canada (Connections through Toronto and Montreal)
- ANA & Japan Airlines (Direct flights to Tokyo)
- Emirates (Direct flights to Dubai)
Low-Cost and Regional Airlines
- Southwest Airlines (Largest carrier at MDW with extensive domestic network)
- Spirit Airlines (Ultra-low-cost carrier serving both airports)
- Frontier Airlines (Budget carrier with point-to-point routes)
- Alaska Airlines (West Coast focus with connections through Seattle)
- JetBlue Airways (Focus cities including Boston and New York)
Chicago Flight Travel Tips
Before You Fly
- Check TSA requirements and prepare for security screening
- Download airline apps for mobile boarding passes
- Consider travel insurance for flight delays or cancellations, especially in winter
- Check baggage allowances and fees for your specific airline
- Pre-book airport parking if driving to the airport
- Research ground transportation options to your final destination
At Chicago Airports
- Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours for international
- Have boarding passes and ID ready for security checkpoints
- Use the 'L' train for affordable transportation to downtown
- Take advantage of airport lounges during long layovers
- Use the free WiFi available throughout both airports
- Be prepared for potential weather delays, especially in winter
Chicago-Specific Travel Tips
- Avoid flying during major events like Lollapalooza (August) for lower prices
- Consider the winter months for better deals but be prepared for cold weather
- Research Chicago's excellent public transportation including 'L' trains and buses
- Download rideshare apps for convenient transportation around the city
- Purchase a Ventra card for easy access to public transportation
- Book popular attractions like Willis Tower Skydeck in advance
- Pack for variable weather - Chicago is known as the "Windy City" for a reason
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago Flights
Which Chicago airport is closer to downtown?
Midway Airport (MDW) is closer to downtown Chicago at 8 miles away, while O'Hare (ORD) is 17 miles from downtown. However, both have good public transportation connections.
What is the cheapest month to fly to Chicago?
January and February typically offer the lowest airfares to Chicago, as these are the coldest months with fewer tourists and conventions.
How early should I arrive at Chicago airports for domestic flights?
For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours before departure. During peak travel times or at busy O'Hare, consider arriving 2.5-3 hours early.
Which airlines offer direct flights to Chicago from the West Coast?
United, American, Delta, Southwest, and Alaska offer direct flights from major West Coast cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, and Portland.
What is the best way to get from O'Hare to downtown Chicago?
The Blue Line 'L' train is the most affordable option, taking about 45 minutes to the Loop. Airport shuttles and taxis are also available but more expensive.
Is there a shuttle between O'Hare and Midway airports?
Yes, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates bus service between the airports, but it's time-consuming. The Orange Line from Midway to downtown combined with the Blue Line to O'Hare is more efficient.
What is the flight time from New York to Chicago?
The flight from New York to Chicago takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.
How bad are winter weather delays at Chicago airports?
Chicago airports are well-equipped for winter weather, but significant snowstorms can cause delays and cancellations. Always check flight status during winter months and consider travel insurance.