Aerial View of Chicago Midway Airport

Chicago Midway Airport MDW

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MDW Airport Insights & Guide


Key MDW Airport Topics:

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MDW-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"Midway's layout can be a bit confusing if you're not familiar with it. Always check the terminal map before your trip, especially if you have a tight connection. The pedestrian walkway connecting the terminals is a lifesaver, but it can get crowded during peak times." — John D., Oak Lawn, IL, June 2023

"If you’re flying Southwest, you'll be in the Main Terminal. It’s the busiest part of the airport, so plan accordingly. The signs are clear, but it’s always good to double-check with the information desks if you’re unsure." — Maria S., Cicero, IL, August 2023

Getting to/from the City

"The CTA Orange Line is the most cost-effective way to get to downtown Chicago from Midway. It’s quick and avoids the hassle of traffic. Just follow the signs to the train station in the Main Terminal." — Ahmed R., Berwyn, IL, May 2023

"If you’re taking a taxi or a ride-share, make sure to confirm the pickup location with your driver. The designated areas can get crowded, and it’s easy to miss your ride if you’re not paying attention." — Emily T., Burbank, IL, September 2023

Parking

"The Economy Garage is a great option if you’re looking to save on parking fees. It’s a bit further from the terminal, but the shuttle service is reliable and runs frequently." — Carlos M., Bedford Park, IL, April 2023

"For short trips, the Main Garage is incredibly convenient. It’s right across from the terminal, so you can get in and out quickly. Just be prepared to pay a bit more for the convenience." — Sarah L., Chicago, IL, July 2023

Inside the Airport

"Don’t miss the food options at Midway. Gold Coast Dogs in the Main Terminal offers a true taste of Chicago. If you have time, grab a bite before your flight." — David W., Evergreen Park, IL, March 2023

"If you need to pick up last-minute gifts, Discover Chicago has a great selection of local souvenirs. It’s located in Concourse A, and the staff are super helpful." — Linda K., Oak Park, IL, October 2023

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check the TSA wait times before you head to the airport. The lines can get long, especially during peak travel times. Arriving early can save you a lot of stress." — Michael B., La Grange, IL, January 2023

"If you’re traveling during the winter, keep an eye on the weather forecast. Chicago’s weather can be unpredictable, and it’s better to be prepared for potential delays." — Jessica P., River Forest, IL, February 2023

Helpful Tips & Resources

Is Chicago Airport (MDW) airport a bit unfamiliar to you? Look no further than iFly.com for insightful tips and advice. Read on!

Getting to Know MDW Airport

Welcome to the online guide for Chicago Midway Airport, the Windy City's vibrant gateway to the world. Serving millions of passengers each year, MDW is renowned for its efficient design and friendly Midwestern hospitality. This guide provides an overview of the airport's four terminals, services, and unique features, such as its diverse culinary offerings that reflect Chicago's rich food culture. Whether you're jetting off to a new adventure or returning home, MDW aims to make your journey as smooth as possible. If your travels take you further, don't forget to check out our worldwide airport guide for more helpful information.

Airport News

Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) is undergoing significant changes that will impact travelers. In 2024, MDW will open its first airport lounge, offering a new level of comfort and amenities for passengers. This development is part of the airport's ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience. However, a recent study has ranked Midway as the 5th most unreliable airport in America, highlighting challenges such as delays and cancellations that travelers should be aware of. (sources: Business Traveler USA, Suburban Chicagoland)

Chicago Midway Airport has four terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 10 gates, Concourse B has 17 gates, and Concourse C has 16 gates. The Main Terminal has 20 gates and is used by Southwest Airlines, the airport's largest carrier.

Other major airlines at MDW include Delta, Porter, and Volaris, which all operate out of Concourse A. Meanwhile, Concourse B is used by AirTran Airways, Frontier Airlines, and Delta Connection. Concourse C is used by a variety of airlines, including Delta, Southwest, and Volaris.

When navigating the airport, it's important to know which terminal your airline is operating out of. Be sure to check your boarding pass or with your airline ahead of time to avoid any confusion. Once you know your terminal, follow the signs and directions to find your gate.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

MDW has four terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal. The terminals are connected by a pedestrian walkway, which takes about 5-10 minutes to walk between each terminal. If you have limited mobility or heavy luggage, there are also shuttle buses that run between the terminals.

To catch a shuttle bus, look for signs that say "Terminal Shuttle" or ask an airport employee for assistance. The shuttle buses run every 5-10 minutes and are free of charge. If you prefer to take the train, the Chicago Transit Authority's Orange Line connects to the airport and stops at the Midway station, which is located in the Main Terminal.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

Midway provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you are dropping off a passenger, you can use the designated curbside drop-off areas located outside of each terminal. However, please note that curbside parking is strictly prohibited and vehicles left unattended will be towed. Therefore, it is important to stay with your vehicle at all times while dropping off passengers.

If you are picking up a passenger, you can use the cell-phone waiting areas located near the airport. These areas are free of charge and provide a convenient place to wait for your arriving passenger. Once your passenger has collected their luggage, they can call you to let you know that they are ready to be picked up. You can then proceed to the designated pick-up area outside of the terminal to collect your passenger.

Please note that parking is not allowed in the cell-phone waiting areas and vehicles must be attended at all times. If you need to park your vehicle, you can use the airport's parking facilities located in each terminal. There are several parking options available including hourly parking, daily parking, and economy parking.

Overall, Chicago Midway Airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. It is important to follow the designated rules and regulations to ensure a safe and efficient experience for all travelers.

Parking Facilities & Options

Chicago Midway Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of all travelers. There are several parking lots and garages located near the airport terminals, including the Main Garage, Economy Garage, and Red, Blue, and Yellow parking lots. The Main Garage is located directly across from the terminal, while the Economy Garage is a short shuttle ride away.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are also cell phone waiting areas available. These areas are conveniently located near the airport and allow you to wait in your car until your passenger is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all parking areas, with designated spaces located near the terminal entrances and shuttle bus stops.

If you're looking for an economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be a cost-effective alternative to on-site parking.

Get details about MDW parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

MDW Airport offers a range of ground transportation options to help you get to your destination. If you're looking for a car rental, you'll find several major providers located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National.

If you prefer to take a taxi, you'll find designated drop-off areas outside of the terminal buildings. Fares are typically based on distance traveled, and you can expect to pay around $30-$40 to get to downtown Chicago.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminal buildings, and there may be restrictions on where drivers can drop you off, so be sure to check with your driver before you get in the car.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, airport shuttles are available to take you to nearby hotels and other destinations. Pickup areas are located outside of the terminal buildings, and fares vary depending on your destination.

Finally, if you're looking to save money and don't mind taking public transportation, you can take the CTA Orange Line train from the airport to downtown Chicago. The train station is located just outside of the airport terminal, and fares are typically around $3 per person.

Airport Hotels

Traveling can be both exciting and exhausting, and having a comfortable place to rest near the airport can make a significant difference in your journey. From luxury accommodations to budget-friendly options, we provide an overview of some of the best hotels near the airport. Many of these hotels offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, ensuring a seamless and stress-free travel experience. They are not only conveniently located near the airport but are also within easy reach of the city center. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, these hotels offer the convenience, comfort, and amenities you need to make your stay enjoyable and hassle-free. Ready to book now? View all Midway Airport Hotels.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Traveling through MDW Airport? You won't go hungry with the variety of dining options available. From classic Chicago hot dogs at Gold Coast Dogs to Mediterranean dishes at Pegasus on the Fly, there's something for everyone. And if you need to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or snacks, the airport has you covered with a range of shops and stores. Discover Chicago offers Chicago-themed gifts and souvenirs, while iStore has a variety of electronics and accessories. These are just a few examples of what you'll find at MDW.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at the airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, click here to navigate the options.

Passenger Services

Midway Airport is renowned for its outstanding passenger services that cater to a wide range of traveler needs. Whether you're traveling with children, have special needs, or require medical assistance, Midway Airport is equipped to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience. Below are some of the services you can expect at Midway:

Wifi Access: Stay connected with complimentary wifi access available throughout the terminal buildings, allowing you to keep in touch with loved ones or catch up on work while waiting for your flight.

Lost and Found: Misplaced an item at the airport? Contact the lost and found department to report your lost item. The dedicated airport staff will endeavor to locate and return your item as swiftly as possible.

Children's Areas: Midway Airport features designated play areas for children in Concourse A and Concourse B, providing a fun and safe space for kids to play and expend energy before flights.

Special-Needs Services: The airport offers a variety of services for travelers with special needs, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and visual paging. Additionally, a TTY phone system is available for travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing.

Banking: Need to manage your finances before flying? Midway Airport provides convenient access to ATMs and currency exchange services located throughout the terminal buildings.

Medical Help: For travelers in need of medical assistance, a medical clinic is available in the Main Terminal. The clinic is staffed with medical professionals ready to provide necessary care.

Flight Status Info

When traveling by air, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At Chicago Midway Airport, passengers can easily check their flight status using a variety of methods.

One of the most convenient ways to check flight status at the airport is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also stay informed about their flight status by using their airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that provide push notifications for departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes. In addition, passengers can choose to receive updates via text or email.

For those who prefer to check flight status online, the airport's website offers a Flight Tracker tool that provides real-time updates on flight departures and arrivals. Additionally, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at MDW by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

By staying informed about flight status, passengers can avoid unnecessary stress and make the most of their travel experience.

Airport Facts & Stats

MDW Airport is a major airport located in the United States, serving millions of passengers every year. The airport has a total of four terminals, including Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Main Terminal.

On average, the airport handles around 70,000 passengers daily, with an average of 550 daily flights. The airport serves over 60 destinations, with the top five destinations being Atlanta, Baltimore, Denver, Las Vegas, and Orlando.

The airport is a hub for several airlines, including Southwest Airlines, which operates the most daily flights out of MDW. Other major airlines that use the airport as a hub include Delta Air Lines and Volaris.

Airport History

The airport, located in the city of Chicago, Illinois, has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1923: The airport opens as Chicago Air Park.
  • 1927: The airport is renamed Chicago Municipal Airport.
  • 1931: The airport is renamed Midway Airport in honor of the Battle of Midway during World War II.
  • 1947: The airport becomes the world's busiest airport, handling over 10 million passengers annually.
  • 1961: The airport's terminal building is expanded to accommodate the increasing number of passengers.
  • 1982: The airport is privatized and becomes Midway Airlines' hub.
  • 1993: The airport is sold to the City of Chicago and undergoes a major renovation.
  • 2004: Southwest Airlines becomes the airport's largest carrier, accounting for over 80% of the airport's traffic.
  • 2015: The airport completes a $75 million renovation, including upgrades to the terminal, parking garage, and airfield.
  • 2020: The airport experiences a significant decrease in passenger traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite its ups and downs, Midway Airport remains an important transportation hub for the city of Chicago and the surrounding areas.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Chicago Midway International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: MDW
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 773-838-0600
  • Email: Use the contact form on the airport website
  • Mailing Address: Chicago Midway International Airport, 5700 S Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60638, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).