Chicago, a major transportation hub, boasts two significant international airports: O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW). Choosing the right airport for your trip is crucial for a smooth and stress-free journey. This guide breaks down the key differences between ORD and MDW, helping you determine which airport code best suits your travel needs.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD): The Giant
O'Hare International Airport, designated by the code ORD, is one of the busiest airports globally. Its sheer size offers extensive flight options, connecting Chicago to countless domestic and international destinations. Expect a wider array of airlines, both major and budget carriers, giving you greater flexibility in choosing your flights and potentially securing better deals.
Advantages of Choosing ORD:
- Extensive Flight Network: ORD offers an unparalleled number of flights, serving virtually every major city in the US and many international hubs. This is particularly advantageous for travelers with less flexible schedules or those flying to less frequently served destinations.
- More Airline Choices: A broader selection of airlines means greater competition and potentially lower fares. You'll find major carriers like United, American, Delta, and numerous international airlines operating from ORD.
- More Amenities: Given its size, ORD boasts a wider range of amenities, including numerous restaurants, shops, lounges, and comfortable seating areas throughout the terminals.
Disadvantages of Choosing ORD:
- Longer Travel Times: Navigating ORD can be time-consuming. The airport's vast size requires more time for security checks, transfers between terminals, and reaching your gate. Allow ample time, especially during peak hours.
- Higher Congestion: Expect higher levels of congestion, particularly during peak travel seasons. This can lead to longer wait times at security checkpoints and potential delays.
- Higher Costs (Potentially): While competition can lead to lower fares, the sheer scale of ORD can also result in higher costs for parking, transportation, and food and beverage options compared to smaller airports.
Midway International Airport (MDW): The Convenient Choice
Midway International Airport (MDW) is Chicago's smaller airport, offering a more streamlined and often less congested experience. While its flight network is less extensive than ORD's, MDW provides convenient access to numerous domestic destinations and a select number of international flights, primarily served by Southwest Airlines.
Advantages of Choosing MDW:
- Shorter Travel Times: Midway's smaller size translates to shorter travel times within the airport. Getting through security, reaching your gate, and navigating the airport overall is generally quicker.
- Less Congestion: MDW typically experiences less congestion than ORD, resulting in shorter wait times at security checkpoints and baggage claim.
- Easier Parking and Transportation: Parking at MDW is often easier and cheaper to find than at ORD, and public transportation options, such as the CTA Orange Line, provide convenient access to the city.
Disadvantages of Choosing MDW:
- Limited Flight Network: MDW's flight network is significantly smaller compared to ORD. You may find fewer options for both domestic and international travel, potentially limiting your flight choices and requiring connections through other hubs.
- Fewer Airline Choices: The selection of airlines operating from MDW is more limited, mainly dominated by Southwest Airlines. This reduces the opportunity to compare fares and find the best deal.
- Fewer Amenities: MDW offers a more limited selection of restaurants, shops, and lounges compared to ORD.
Which Airport is Right for You?
The best airport for your trip depends on your specific needs and priorities.
Choose ORD if:
- You need a vast selection of flights, potentially to less-frequently served destinations.
- You want a wider choice of airlines to compare fares and schedules.
- You don't mind navigating a larger and busier airport.
Choose MDW if:
- You value a quicker and less stressful airport experience.
- You prefer a smaller, less congested environment.
- Your destination is served by Southwest Airlines or a limited selection of other carriers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What's the difference between ORD and MDW?
The primary difference lies in size and flight network. ORD is significantly larger, offering a far more extensive range of destinations and airlines. MDW is smaller and more convenient, but with a limited flight network.
Which airport is cheaper to fly from?
This depends heavily on your destination and the time of year. Competition at ORD can sometimes lead to lower fares, but MDW, with its concentration on Southwest, might offer competitive deals on certain routes.
Which airport is closer to downtown Chicago?
MDW is generally closer to downtown Chicago than ORD.
Which airport has better amenities?
ORD offers a significantly wider array of amenities, including more restaurants, shops, and lounges.
By carefully weighing these factors, you can choose the Chicago airport that best suits your travel plans and ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey.
