Which Airlines Fly Out of Midway? Your Complete Guide

The Windy City’s “other” airport, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), is a bustling hub known for its convenience and proximity to downtown. But which airlines can whisk you away from its gates? The answer is relatively straightforward: Southwest Airlines dominates Midway, while a handful of other airlines also offer flights. Let’s dive into the specifics.

The Midway Airlines Landscape

Midway isn’t the behemoth that O’Hare is, which means a more streamlined flying experience and generally shorter security lines. It also means fewer airline options, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Here’s a breakdown of the carriers currently serving MDW:

Southwest Airlines: Without a doubt, Southwest is the king of Midway. They operate the vast majority of flights, connecting Chicago to destinations across the United States and even some international locales. Think of Midway, and you’ll likely think of Southwest’s iconic heart logo.
Allegiant Air: This ultra-low-cost carrier offers a more limited selection of routes, typically focusing on leisure destinations and smaller cities. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly escape, Allegiant might be worth checking out.
Delta Air Lines: Delta offers a smaller number of flights from Midway, primarily connecting to its hubs for onward travel. This provides passengers with access to Delta’s extensive network, even from the convenience of MDW.
Porter Airlines: This Canadian airline provides flights between Midway and Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport (YTZ). It offers a unique travel experience, serving complimentary beer and wine onboard!

That’s the core group! Knowing these airlines gives you a head start in planning your travels from this convenient Chicago airport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Flying Out of Midway

Here are some of the most common questions travelers have about airlines and operations at Midway:

1. Why is Southwest Airlines so dominant at Midway?

Southwest’s presence at Midway is deeply rooted in the airport’s history. Southwest recognized Midway’s potential early on, investing heavily in infrastructure and building a strong operational base. This strategic decision allowed them to secure a dominant market share and solidify their brand recognition among Chicago travelers. Furthermore, Midway’s size and location make it an ideal fit for Southwest’s point-to-point route system, minimizing connection times and maximizing efficiency.

2. Does Midway offer international flights?

Yes, but primarily through Southwest Airlines and Porter Airlines. Southwest offers international destinations mainly to Mexico and the Caribbean. Porter Airlines provides service to Toronto, Canada. While Midway’s international offerings aren’t as extensive as O’Hare’s, these options cater to leisure travelers and those seeking convenient access to specific international destinations.

3. Are there any plans for other airlines to expand at Midway?

Airport expansion and airline route decisions are complex processes influenced by various factors, including market demand, airport capacity, and airline strategies. While there are always possibilities for new airlines to enter the market, no concrete plans for major expansion by other airlines at Midway have been publicly announced recently. Keep an eye on airline news and airport press releases for the latest developments.

4. How can I find the cheapest flights out of Midway?

Finding the cheapest flights requires a multi-pronged approach:

Be flexible with your travel dates: Prices often fluctuate depending on the day of the week and the time of year.
Use flight comparison websites: Sites like Google Flights, Kayak, and Skyscanner allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines simultaneously.
Consider flying during off-peak seasons: Prices are typically lower during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) than during the summer or holidays.
Sign up for airline email alerts: Stay informed about special deals and promotions.
Book in advance: While last-minute deals can sometimes occur, booking several weeks or months ahead is generally recommended, especially for popular routes.

5. What is the best way to get to Midway Airport?

Midway is exceptionally well-connected. You have several convenient options:

CTA Orange Line: The “L” train provides a direct and affordable connection to downtown Chicago.
Ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft): A convenient option, especially for those with luggage.
Taxis: Readily available outside the terminals.
Rental cars: Several rental car agencies operate at Midway.
Shuttle services: Some hotels offer shuttle service to and from the airport.

6. What are the parking options at Midway Airport?

Midway offers a variety of parking options to suit different needs and budgets:

Economy Garage: The most affordable option, located a bit further from the terminal.
Main Garage: Conveniently located adjacent to the terminal.
Terminal Garage: The closest option, but also the most expensive.
Valet Parking: For those seeking ultimate convenience.

It’s advisable to check the airport’s website for real-time parking availability and rates, especially during peak travel times.

7. Are there any lounges at Midway Airport?

Yes, there is a Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards Priority Lounge available for eligible Southwest Rapid Rewards members. Also, Delta Air Lines offers access to Delta Sky Club for its passengers. Note that availability and access requirements may change, so it’s best to verify the latest information with the airlines.

8. What are the security wait times like at Midway compared to O’Hare?

Generally, security wait times at Midway are shorter than those at O’Hare. However, this can vary depending on the time of day and the day of the week. Real-time wait time information is often available through the TSA website or app. Plan to arrive with ample time to navigate security, especially during peak travel periods.

9. Does Midway have free Wi-Fi?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals at Midway. This allows passengers to stay connected, browse the internet, and catch up on emails while waiting for their flights.

10. What dining and shopping options are available at Midway?

Midway offers a decent selection of dining and shopping options, including familiar chains and local favorites. You’ll find restaurants, cafes, bars, newsstands, bookstores, and souvenir shops. While the selection isn’t as extensive as at a larger airport like O’Hare, there are enough options to keep you satisfied before your flight.

11. Is Midway a good alternative to O’Hare for connecting flights?

Midway is generally not a good alternative for connecting flights, especially if your origin and destination are not served by Southwest or the limited selection of other airlines at MDW. O’Hare offers far more connecting flight options across a wide range of airlines, making it the preferred choice for complex itineraries.

12. What is the address of Midway International Airport?

The address of Midway International Airport is 5700 S Cicero Ave, Chicago, IL 60638. Having the address handy will help with navigation, ride-sharing arrangements, and deliveries.