southwest airlines o hare airport
Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the world’s busiest hubs, serving millions of passengers each year. While Southwest Airlines is a favorite for travelers who appreciate low fares, free checked bags, and a no‑frills experience, it’s important to understand how and why Southwest interacts with O’Hare. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from the realities of Southwest’s operations at ORD to practical tips for making the most of your trip.
Why Southwest Airlines Is Relevant When You Fly Out of O’Hare
Even though Southwest does not operate regular service from O’Hare, it still plays a key role for many Chicago travelers:
- Connecting Flights: Southwest flights from Midway or other U.S. hubs often connect to airlines that serve ORD.
- Frequent‑Flyer Partnerships: Southwest’s Rapid Rewards points are usable on airlines that fly into or out of O’Hare.
- Strategic Competition: Southwest’s presence in the Chicago market pressures other carriers, affecting fares and schedules at ORD.
(If you’re planning a trip that involves O’Hare, understanding these dynamics can help you save money and avoid headaches.)
1. Southwest’s Operations Around O’Hare
1.1 No Direct Flights
Southwest currently uses Midway International Airport (MDW) for all Chicago operations. While O’Hare is 27 miles away, the airline’s compact aircraft and low‑cost model are better suited to Midway’s smaller terminals and lower airport fees. That said, you can still benefit from Southwest’s perks when you hop from Midway to a flight on another carrier that serves ORD.
1.2 The “CHICAGO‐SOUTH” Visa—A Quick Reference
| Route | Typical Flight Partner | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Midway → ORD | United, American, or carriers that serve DOS? | Check connection times; terminal change at ORD |
| Midway → O’Hare via Connecting Airline | Usually United or American | Baggage can transfer automatically if fares purchased together |
2. Practical Tips for Travelers Using Southwest and O’Hare
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Should I book a Southwest flight to Midway and then connect to an ORD flight? | Yes, especially if you can buy a single ticket that includes the connecting airline. This simplifies baggage handling and offers potential savings. |
| What baggage policy applies when transferring between Southwest and a connecting airline? | If both tickets are on the same itinerary, baggage is checked through to your final destination—no need to claim/ re‑check at Midway. |
| How do I know which terminal at ORD my connecting flight terminates in? | Check the airline’s website or your boarding pass; most carriers use Terminal 1, 2, or 3 for domestic flights, with the main terminal for international departures. |
| Is there a shuttle between Midway and ORD? | No dedicated shuttle; most travelers use rideshare services, public transit (CTA’s Pink Line), or the express bus L-1. |
| What are the best apps to track flight status for a multi‑airline itinerary? | FlightStats, App in the Air, or directly the airlines’ own apps give real‑time updates and gate changes. |
2.1 Check‑In and Seating
- Online check‑in: Begin 24 hours in advance, saving significant time at the airport.
- Open seating: Southwest’s “Any Seat” policy means you decide where to sit after all passengers have boarded—a great advantage if you prefer window or aisle seats.
- Rapid Rewards: Whenever you fly on another carrier, your Southwest points can be transferred to or earned through partner flights that serve ORD.
2.2 Security and Timing
- TSA PreCheck: Widely available at Midway and ORD. Having a TSA PreCheck or CLEAR membership reduces wait times dramatically—important when you need to hit an early connecting flight.
- Arrive Early: For domestic itineraries that involve connections at ORD, aim to be at Midway 2 hours before departure and at ORD at least 30 minutes before your next flight.
2.3 Airport Lounges and Amenities
While Southwest does not operate its own lounges at ORD, you can still access the airline’s partnership lounges:
- Priority Pass: Rapid Rewards members in Elite status qualify for lounge access at many airports, including O’Hare.
- Upgrade to Business Class: If your connecting flight offers an upgrade, the lounge access is often a perk when you downgrade or re‐book.
3. Southwest vs. Major Competitors at O’Hare
| Feature | Southwest (via Connection) | United | American | Delta |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base Fare | Potentially lower (via MDW) | Variable | Variable | Variable |
| Checked Baggage | Free (2 bags) | Free (1 bag) | Free (1 bag) | Free (1 bag) |
| Seat Selection | Free, open seating | Free at some upgrades | Free at all classes | Free in economy |
| Cancellation Flexibility | No change fee | 24‑hour free cancellation | 24‑hour free cancellation | 24‑hour free cancellation |
| On‑time Performance (2023) | 87% | 78% | 71% | 81% |
| Loyalty Program | Rapid Rewards | MileagePlus | AAdvantage | SkyMiles |
Note: Southwest’s strength lies in its no‑frills, low‑cost model—great when paired with a more traditional airline for the final leg to O’Hare.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Does Southwest Airlines operate flights to O’Hare International Airport?
A1: No. Southwest serves Chicago via Midway International Airport (MDW). Travelers can connect to ORD through partner airlines.
Q2: Can I transfer my checked baggage from Southwest to a connecting airline at O’Hare?
A2: Yes, if both flights are booked on the same itinerary. Baggage will be checked through to your final destination.
Q3: Is it cheaper to book a Southwest flight to Midway then connect to O’Hare, or to book a single airline all the way to ORD?
A3: It depends on the route and timing. Often, a combined ticket (Southwest + partner airline) offers savings and eliminates baggage transfer hassles.
Q4: What happens if my Southwest flight is delayed and I miss my connection to ORD?
A4: The connecting airline will handle re‑booking to the next available flight, though costs or travel dates may vary. Keep the itinerary on a single ticket for automatic re‑booking.
Q5: Do I need to arrive at Midway earlier than I would for a direct ORD flight?
A5: Yes. You should arrive at Midway at least 2 hours before departure and plan for additional time to navigate to ORD if you have a subsequent flight.
Resources
- Southwest Airlines Official Site – www.southwest.com
- United Airlines – Chicago MID to ORD – www.united.com
- American Airlines – Connecting Flights – www.aa.com
- Chicago O’Hare International Airport Information – www.flychicago.com
- TSA PreCheck™ – www.tsa.gov/precheck
Use these resources to plan, book, and travel smoothly. Whether you’re making the most of Southwest’s perks or navigating a complex Chicago itinerary, the right preparation guarantees a hassle‑free trip. Happy flying!
