Chicago, a major air travel hub, boasts two significant airports: O'Hare and Midway. Navigating flights and understanding the airport codes can be confusing for first-timers and even seasoned travelers. This guide simplifies everything, ensuring you never mix up ORD and MDW again.
Understanding the Chicago Airport Codes: ORD vs. MDW
The main source of confusion stems from the two distinct airport codes:
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ORD: This code represents Chicago O'Hare International Airport. It's the larger of the two airports, handling significantly more passengers and flights daily. Think of ORD as the behemoth of Chicago airports.
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MDW: This code designates Chicago Midway International Airport. Midway is smaller than O'Hare, but still a substantial airport serving many domestic and some international flights.
Remembering the difference is crucial to avoid booking the wrong flight or arriving at the incorrect airport, potentially leading to missed connections and significant delays.
What's the Difference Between ORD and MDW?
Beyond the sheer size difference, here are key distinctions between Chicago's two airports:
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Size and Capacity: O'Hare (ORD) is one of the busiest airports globally, with numerous runways and gates. Midway (MDW) is considerably smaller, resulting in less congestion, but also fewer flight options.
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Airlines Served: Both airports accommodate a range of airlines, but their offerings differ. O'Hare serves major international carriers, while Midway predominantly hosts budget airlines and smaller carriers.
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Location: O'Hare is located further northwest of the city center, requiring potentially longer travel times. Midway is closer to downtown Chicago, offering convenient access for city-bound travelers.
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Amenities: While both offer standard amenities, O'Hare, due to its size, boasts more extensive facilities, including more restaurants, shops, and lounges.
Which Airport Should I Fly Into?
Choosing between ORD and MDW depends largely on your individual needs:
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Choose O'Hare (ORD) if: You're flying internationally, need a wider selection of airlines and flight times, or don't mind a longer commute into the city.
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Choose Midway (MDW) if: You're flying domestically on a budget airline, prioritize a shorter commute to downtown Chicago, and prefer a less crowded airport experience.
Always double-check your flight booking confirmation to ensure you're flying into the correct airport.
What are the other Airports near Chicago?
While ORD and MDW are the primary airports servicing Chicago, several smaller airports exist in the surrounding area. These generally cater to private aviation or smaller regional flights, and are not typically used for major commercial travel.
How far apart are ORD and MDW?
O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) are approximately 18 miles apart. The driving time between them can vary depending on traffic, but typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes.
What is the best way to travel between ORD and MDW?
Several options exist for traveling between O'Hare and Midway, including taxis, ride-sharing services (like Uber or Lyft), and public transportation (though this can be time-consuming).
Is there a train between ORD and MDW?
Currently, there isn't a direct train connection between O'Hare and Midway. You would need to utilize other transportation options.
This comprehensive guide clarifies the nuances of Chicago's airport codes, enabling smoother travel planning and avoiding unnecessary confusion. Remember to always double-check your flight details before heading to the airport.
