Cheap Flights From Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), Airport in United States

Basic Information About Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW/KMDW)

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), also known by its ICAO code KMDW, serves as a vital air transport hub for Chicago, Illinois, in the United States. Recognised for its convenient location and accessibility, Midway offers a compelling alternative to the larger O'Hare International Airport.

Located approximately 16 kilometres (10 miles) from Chicago's city centre, Midway is easily accessible by car, with a typical journey time of around 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. Public transport options, including the 'L' train (CTA Orange Line), provide a direct and efficient connection to downtown Chicago, usually taking about 25-30 minutes.

Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Chicago Midway International Airport plays a significant role in regional connectivity. While not the largest airport in the United States, it consistently ranks among the busiest, handling a substantial volume of domestic passenger traffic and serving as a key operational base for several major airlines.

Chicago Midway International Airport Terminals & Layout

Chicago Midway International Airport features a single main terminal building, simplifying navigation for passengers. This terminal houses all airline operations, streamlining the check-in, security, and boarding processes.

The terminal is divided into three concourses: A, B, and C. Concourse A primarily hosts Southwest Airlines flights. Concourse B also mainly serves Southwest Airlines, along with a few other carriers. Concourse C is used by a mix of airlines, including Delta and Porter Airlines.

Moving between concourses within the single terminal is straightforward. All concourses are interconnected post-security, allowing passengers to easily walk between gates. The walking distance between the furthest gates is manageable, typically taking no more than 10-15 minutes. There is no need for shuttle buses or trains to transfer between concourses.

Airlines & Destinations

Chicago Midway International Airport is a major hub for Southwest Airlines, which operates the majority of flights from the airport. Other airlines operating at Midway include Delta Air Lines, Porter Airlines, and Volaris. These airlines offer a mix of domestic and international routes.

Popular routes from Midway include frequent flights to major US cities such as Atlanta, Denver, Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Orlando. International destinations include cities in Mexico and Canada. While Midway primarily focuses on year-round routes, some airlines may offer seasonal flights to cater to holiday or vacation demand.

Chicago Midway International Airport Facilities & Services

• Lounges: The airport has a few lounges, including the Midway Club. Access rules vary, often involving membership programs or day passes.
• Dining & Cafés: A wide variety of dining options are available, from local Chicago favourites to well-known international chains. Expect to find deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and other regional specialities alongside familiar fast-food and coffee brands.
• Shopping & Duty-Free: Passengers can browse a selection of shops offering travel essentials, books, magazines, and souvenirs. Duty-free shopping is limited due to the airport's focus on domestic flights, but you can still find a range of goods.
• Free Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. The login process typically involves accepting the terms and conditions.
• Currency Exchange & ATMs: Currency exchange services and ATMs are located in the terminal for convenient access to cash and foreign currency.
• Medical Services: Basic medical assistance is available at the airport. Contact airport staff for assistance in locating these services.
• Prayer Rooms/Quiet Rooms: Dedicated spaces for prayer and quiet reflection are available for passengers seeking a peaceful environment.
• Kids' Play Areas: Play areas for children are located in the terminal to help keep young travellers entertained during layovers or delays.
• Smoking Areas: Designated smoking areas are available outside the terminal building.
• Special Assistance for Disabled Passengers: Chicago Midway International Airport provides a range of services to assist passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and visual paging. Contact your airline or airport staff in advance to arrange for specific assistance.

Transport to and from Chicago Midway International Airport

Navigating to and from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is relatively straightforward, with a variety of transport options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you're heading into the heart of Chicago or further afield in Illinois, here's a breakdown of your choices:

• Taxi & Ride-hailing: Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals area. Ride-hailing services offer a convenient alternative. Expect fares to downtown Chicago to be in the region of £25-£40, depending on traffic and the specific location. Destinations further north or west will naturally incur higher fares.
• Public Buses: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates several bus routes that serve Midway Airport. Route 47 (79th Street) and Route 55 (55th Street) are key routes connecting the airport to various parts of the city. Fares are typically around £2.00-£2.50 per ride, and buses run frequently throughout the day.
• Trains/Subway: Midway Airport is directly connected to downtown Chicago via the CTA's Orange Line. This is often the quickest and most economical way to reach the city centre. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes approximately 20-25 minutes. A single ride costs around £2.50.
• Airport Shuttle Buses: While less common than other options, some hotels offer complimentary shuttle services to and from Midway Airport. Check with your hotel in advance to see if this is available. Private shuttle services can also be pre-booked, offering door-to-door service.
• Car Rentals: Several car rental companies operate at Midway Airport, with desks located in the main terminal. Renting a car provides flexibility for exploring Chicago and the surrounding areas, but be mindful of parking costs and traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
• Parking: Midway Airport offers a range of parking options, including short-term, long-term, and economy parking. Short-term parking is ideal for picking up or dropping off passengers, while long-term and economy options are more suitable for extended trips. Rates vary depending on the duration of your stay, with daily rates for long-term parking typically starting around £20-£30.

Chicago Midway International Airport Arrival & Departure Process

Understanding the arrival and departure processes at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) can significantly streamline your journey. Whether you're arriving from an international destination, connecting to another flight, or departing for home, here's what to expect:

For International Arrivals: Upon arrival from an international flight, you'll first proceed to immigration control, where you'll need to present your passport and any required visas. After immigration, you'll collect your baggage from the designated carousel. Once you have your luggage, you'll pass through customs, where your baggage may be subject to inspection. Be prepared to declare any items that exceed the duty-free allowance. Following customs, you'll exit into the arrivals area.

For Domestic Arrivals: If you're arriving on a domestic flight, the process is generally quicker and simpler. You'll proceed directly to the baggage claim area to collect your luggage. Once you have your bags, you can exit into the arrivals area. There is no immigration or customs process for domestic arrivals.

Departure Process: The departure process begins with check-in, where you'll check your baggage and obtain your boarding pass. You can check in online or at the airport. After check-in, you'll proceed to the security screening area. Be prepared to remove your shoes, belt, and any electronic devices from your bag. Once you've cleared security, you can proceed to your departure gate. Listen for announcements regarding boarding times and any gate changes. If you have a connecting flight, check the departure screens for the gate information for your next flight.

Travel Tips

To ensure a smooth and stress-free experience at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), consider these helpful travel tips:

• Best Time to Travel Through the Airport: To avoid long queues and crowded terminals, try to travel during off-peak hours. Generally, early morning (before 6:00 AM) and late evening (after 9:00 PM) are less busy. Avoid travelling during major holiday seasons, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, when the airport is typically at its busiest.
• Luggage Tips: Familiarise yourself with your airline's baggage allowance to avoid excess baggage fees. Consider using luggage storage services if you have a long layover and want to explore the city without your bags. Clearly label your luggage with your name, address, and contact information.
• Safety Tips: Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. Avoid accepting assistance from strangers offering to help with your luggage. Only use official taxi ranks or pre-booked ride-hailing services. Be wary of unsolicited offers of transportation.
• Local Customs: Be prepared for thorough security checks, including the removal of shoes and electronic devices. Familiarise yourself with the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) liquids policy, which restricts the amount of liquids you can carry in your hand luggage.
• Weather Considerations: Chicago experiences significant seasonal variations in weather. During winter, expect potential delays due to snow and ice. Check the weather forecast before you travel and allow extra time for potential disruptions. In summer, be prepared for hot and humid conditions.

Attractions & Hotels Near Chicago Midway International Airport

Whether you have a layover or need a convenient place to stay near the airport, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) offers proximity to various attractions and hotels.

Closest Hotels to Chicago Midway International Airport: For ultimate convenience, consider staying at one of the airport hotels directly connected to or within a short shuttle ride of the terminal. These hotels offer amenities such as free airport shuttles, on-site restaurants, and business centres. Beyond the immediate airport vicinity, neighbourhoods like Garfield Ridge and Clearing offer a range of hotels within a 15-30 minute drive, providing easy access to the airport while offering a quieter environment. These hotels often provide shuttle services as well. Consider hotels near Cicero Avenue for easy access.

Tourist Attractions Near Chicago Midway International Airport: While not directly adjacent to major tourist hotspots, Midway Airport provides relatively easy access to several attractions. The Museum of Science and Industry, located about 20-30 minutes away, is a must-visit for science enthusiasts. Explore the vibrant Pilsen neighbourhood, known for its street art and Mexican culture. Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory, one of the largest botanical conservatories in the nation. Take a stroll through Marquette Park, a large green space offering recreational activities. For a taste of local culture, explore the shops and restaurants along Archer Avenue in the Brighton Park neighbourhood. These locations offer a diverse range of experiences for those with a few hours to spare.

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