Chicago Midway International Airport Guide

IATA MDWICAO KMDWChicagoUpdated 2026-08-28
Local time
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Chicago Midway International Airport sits on Chicago's southwest side, 19 km from the Loop business district. Opened in 1927, it served as Chicago's primary airport for nearly two decades before O'Hare opened in 1955. The airport covers a compact footprint in the Clearing and Garfield Ridge neighborhoods, bordered by Cicero Avenue.

Southwest Airlines dominates operations, carrying more than 90% of passengers. The airport handled 21.5 million passengers in 2024 across 58 domestic and 11 international destinations. Four active runways serve the facility, with the single terminal complex — completed in 2001 — connected to three concourses totaling 43 gates.

The CTA Orange Line rapid transit connects Midway to downtown Chicago in roughly 30 minutes, stopping at the basement level of the terminal. Ride-share and taxi pick-up areas are on the lower level of the terminal building.

Services

5 of 6 available

Compare 20 listed options at Chicago Midway International Airport, spanning parking, car rentals, lounges, hotels and shuttles. Each guide sets out locations, distance from the airport, key features and links to book direct, so you can weigh cost against convenience before you fly. Select a service below to see every provider we track for Chicago Midway International Airport.

Location

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Key facts

Size
22M passengers (2024)4 runwaysopened 1927
Location
41.786, -87.752
Operator
Chicago Department of Aviation

Terminals

1 terminal

Chicago Midway International Airport has 1 passenger terminalMain Terminal, handling both international and domestic flights for around 6 airlines. Check which terminal your airline uses before you travel, as check-in, security and boarding points differ between them, and moving from one to another can take time.

  • Main TerminalMixed

    Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Allegiant Air, Porter Airlines, Volaris

    Concourses Concourse A · Concourse B · Concourse C

Nearby cities

4 cities

Chicago Midway International Airport is closest to Oak Park (13 km north), and also serves Chicago, Gary and other nearby areas. With 4 towns and cities within reach, it is a practical gateway for the wider region. Distances shown are straight-line from the airport, so allow extra time for road transfers, traffic and parking.

  • Chicago19 km northeast
  • Oak Park13 km north
  • Joliet50 km southwest
  • Gary48 km east

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the airport codes for Chicago Midway International Airport?

Chicago Midway International Airport uses the following codes: IATA: MDW, ICAO: KMDW. These codes are used by airlines, pilots, and travel systems to identify the airport.

Where is Chicago Midway International Airport located?

Chicago Midway International Airport is located in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The airport coordinates are 41.7860°, -87.7524°.

What services are available at Chicago Midway International Airport?

Chicago Midway International Airport offers: 5 parking options, 7 car rental companies, 1 lounges, 6 nearby hotels, 1 shuttle services, public transport connections. Click on each service type above to view detailed information.

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