southwest airlines midway airport
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is a bustling hub for budget-conscious travelers, and Southwest Airlines stands out as one of its premier carriers. Known for its no-frills approach, friendly service, and extensive domestic routes, Southwest makes flying from Midway convenient and affordable. Whether you’re heading to a business meeting in Denver or a family vacation in Orlando, this guide covers everything you need to know about flying with Southwest at Midway. From booking flights to navigating the terminal, we’ll share practical tips, insights, and even a comparison to help you plan your trip seamlessly.
Why Southwest Airlines Excels at Midway Airport
Midway Airport is Southwest’s primary base in the Chicago area, handling a significant portion of the airline’s operations. Since establishing a major presence here in the 1990s, Southwest has grown to offer nonstop flights to over 70 destinations, making it ideal for Midwestern travelers. Unlike the larger O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway is smaller and easier to navigate, which aligns perfectly with Southwest’s efficient, point-to-point model.
One key advantage is Southwest’s focus on low fares without hidden fees for checked bags (two free bags per passenger) or changes to non-refundable tickets. This can save you hundreds compared to competitors. For instance, a round-trip to Las Vegas might cost $150–$250 on Southwest, often beating legacy carriers by 20–30%. Insights from frequent flyers highlight Midway’s quick security lines during off-peak hours, averaging 10–15 minutes versus O’Hare’s 30+.
Practical Tips for Choosing Southwest at Midway
- Book Early for Best Deals: Southwest releases fares about eight months in advance. Use their Low Fare Calendar tool to snag deals under $100 one-way.
- Consider Peak Seasons: Summer and holidays see higher demand; aim for mid-week flights (Tuesdays and Wednesdays) for up to 15% savings.
- Loyalty Perks: Join Rapid Rewards for points on every flight, redeemable for free trips. Elite status offers priority boarding at Midway.
Navigating Midway Airport with Southwest
Midway’s single-terminal layout keeps things simple, with Southwest operating primarily out of Concourse B. The airport is just 12 miles from downtown Chicago, accessible via the CTA Orange Line (a quick 25-minute ride for $2.50) or I-55 for drivers.
Arrival and Check-In Process
Arrive two hours early for domestic flights. Southwest’s mobile check-in opens 24 hours prior—download the app to get your boarding pass and track bags. At the airport, self-service kiosks in the main lobby speed things up. Security is on the upper level; TSA PreCheck lanes (available for $70–$85 enrollment) can cut wait times in half.
For baggage, drop off at designated Southwest counters. Remember, bags must be under 50 pounds to avoid fees. Example: On a recent trip from Midway to Dallas, a traveler checked two suitcases hassle-free, arriving at the gate with 30 minutes to spare.
Gate and Boarding Insights
Southwest uses open seating with numbered boarding groups (A–C for elites/early check-in). Gates are clearly marked, and the terminal offers free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and dining options like Harold’s Chicken Shack for a taste of local flavor. Flight times are reliable, with on-time performance around 80% per U.S. Department of Transportation data.
Amenities and Services for Southwest Passengers
Southwest enhances the Midway experience with dedicated lounges and partnerships. While they don’t have a branded club like Delta Sky Club, the airline’s gates feature comfortable seating and power outlets. Look for the Southwest counter for last-minute upgrades to Business Select (extra legroom for $30–$100 more).
Dining and Shopping Recommendations
Midway’s Concourse B has Southwest-friendly spots:
- Quick Bites: Grab a Chicago-style hot dog at Gold Coast Dogs—perfect for a pre-flight snack under $10.
- Relaxation: Use the XpresSpa for a 15-minute massage ($25) to unwind after a long drive.
- Shopping: Duty-free isn’t big here, but pick up souvenirs at Chicago News & Gifts.
Pro Tip: Download the Midway app for real-time gate changes and parking availability. Families appreciate the airline’s family boarding option, letting kids under six board early.
Parking and Ground Transportation Options
Parking at Midway is straightforward and often cheaper than O’Hare. Southwest passengers can use the on-site economy lots, starting at $15/day.
Here’s a quick comparison table of parking options at Midway:
| Option | Cost per Day | Distance to Terminal | Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal Garage | $28 | Adjacent (5-min walk) | Covered, 24/7 shuttle | Short trips, convenience |
| Economy South Lot | $15 | 1-mile (free shuttle) | Outdoor, ample spots | Budget travelers |
| Off-Site (e.g., Red Roof Inn) | $10–$12 | 2–3 miles (shuttle) | Valet options, secure | Long-term parking |
For ground transport, rideshares like Uber/Lyft average $25–$35 from downtown. The CTA train is the most economical, and Southwest offers seamless connections for award travel.
Comparing Southwest to Other Airlines at Midway
To help you evaluate, here’s how Southwest stacks up against other major carriers at Midway:
| Airline | Free Checked Bags | Change Fees | Nonstop Destinations | On-Time Performance | Avg. Fare to Major Cities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest | 2 | $0 (same-day) | 70+ | 80% | $150–$300 round-trip |
| American | 0 (basic economy) | $200 | 50+ | 78% | $200–$350 |
| Delta | 0 | $200 | 40+ | 82% | $180–$320 |
| United | 0 | $200 | Limited (focus on ORD) | 75% | $220–$380 |
Southwest shines for flexibility and value, especially for leisure flyers, but legacy airlines may offer more international connections.
In summary, Southwest Airlines at Midway Airport combines affordability, ease, and reliability for a stress-free travel experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent flyer, these insights will help you soar smoothly.
Sources
- Southwest Airlines Official Website: southwest.com
- Chicago Department of Aviation: Midway Airport Guide flychicago.com
- U.S. Department of Transportation Air Travel Consumer Report: transportation.gov
- Bureau of Transportation Statistics: On-Time Performance Data bts.gov
