Is Chicago Midway a busy airport?


Is Chicago Midway a busy airport? It is also one of the busiest airports in the country, despite its relatively small size, serving 22.2 million travelers each year. Harsh weather, security logjams and parking hassles all contribute to the difficulties. If at all possible, refrain from flying out of Midway during the winter.


Why is Midway Airport so small?

Midway, a compact one mile square, was built in 1923 during the propeller era and has shorter runways than most major airports, with no room to extend them because it is hemmed in by houses and businesses.


How many gates does Southwest have at Midway?

Chicago O'Hare International Airport is Chicago's largest airport, however Midway is another great option because of its proximity to the city, frequent flight times, and low ticket prices with Southwest Airlines—Southwest controls 34 of the 43 gates at Midway.


How long does it take to get through Midway Security?

Current Average TSA Wait Time at MDW This average wait time is based on the current time (Pacific Standard Time). Please expect to wait up to at least (16 mins) on average to go through security checkpoints at MDW.


What class airport is Midway?

Chicago Midway International Airport Class C modifications. Image courtesy of the FAA.


Which airport is easier to fly into Chicago?

Chicago Midway Airport But even if you're headed someplace that's equidistant to O'Hare and Midway, there are some good reasons to opt for Chicago's smaller airport! Overall, Midway offers a smoother and easier flying experience, with shorter wait times for security and easier navigation.


Are there multiple terminals at Midway?

Chicago Midway Airport has one terminal with 3 concourses: A, B, and C. International flights are typically handled in Concourse A.


How busy is Midway Airport?

During the first four months of 2023, Midway International Airport welcomed an average of 1.6 million passengers per month, putting the airport at 103% of passenger volume compared to the same period in 2019, the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) reported in statistics posted online this month.


Is Chicago Midway Airport easy to navigate?

2. Navigation: Midway is a smaller airport, which enables the airport to provide a simple navigation experience. Midway only has three gates: A, B, and C. O'Hare is a bigger airport with a larger area to navigate.


How early to arrive at Midway for Southwest flight?

When do I need to arrive at the airport for my Southwest Airlines (WN) flight? Suggested arrival time: 2 hours before scheduled departure time for US domestic flights. 3 hours before scheduled departure time for international flights to/from the US.


Which gates does Southwest use at Midway?

Concourse B Serves Southwest Airlines. It contains gates B1-B26.


Does Midway only have one terminal?

MDW consists of only 1 terminal and 3 concourses, which are all interlinked, so there is no transport for getting around.


Is Chicago Midway airport large?

Midway International Airport is the 2nd-largest airport in the Chicago metropolitan area, serving over a million passengers every month. The airport lies on the southwest side of the city, 10 miles from downtown Chicago and the famous Loop district.


What is the 3 hour airport rule?

According to the Department of Transportation (DOT), there are tarmac delay rules that US airlines must follow: Carriers are not allowed to hold a domestic flight on the tarmac for more than three hours and an international flight for more than four hours, barring a couple of exceptions (like if the pilot deems it's ...


Is 3 hours too early for airport?

Generally speaking, most airlines advise that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to a domestic flight, and at least 3 hours prior to an international flight.


Is 2.5 hours enough time for international flight?

The General Guideline for How Early You Should Get to the Airport. Generally speaking, most airlines advise that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours prior to a domestic flight, and at least 3 hours prior to an international flight.