Summary

• Chicago's airports can be connected efficiently via train, with a transfer downtown.
• There used to be scheduled helicopter flights between Midway and O'Hare, but they ceased after a fatal accident in 1960.
• The easiest and quickest way to connect between the two airports is by car, with a typical travel time of 45-60 minutes.

One of the largest cities in the United States' Midwest region, Chicago is served by two major airports: O'Hare International (ORD) and Midway International (MDW). The larger ORD airport was designed as a successor to MDW, and it became one of the busiest airports in the world, as well as the world's most connected airport in 2023.

The two airports in the Chicago Metropolitan Area are approximately 31 miles (50 km) apart, and you may wonder if there is an efficient way to connect both airports. Moreover, what are the passenger travel options between the two airports? This article explores the best ways to travel between the two airports in Chicago.

Trains

A reliable method to connect both airports is via train. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates a series of commuter trains throughout the region, including the famed "L train" downtown and, of course, a line that allows air passengers to go from one airport to another.

Travelers can take the CTA from Midway to O'Hare (or vice-versa) with one transfer downtown. For example, you can take the Orange Line train from Midway Station. The station is just east of the terminals and is connected via an enclosed walkway. After getting off at the Clark/Lake Station downtown and transferring to the Blue Line, you can take this toward O'Hare and get off at O'Hare Station.

CTA is the most economical way to travel between the two airports, but it comes with a catch: time! Make sure to allow up to two hours for the trip.

Want answers to more key questions in aviation? Check out the rest of our guides here!

Planes (or helicopters)

While there are no scheduled flights between Midway and O'Hare today, there was a time when air service between both airports was available. When scheduled helicopter feeder service became ever so popular in the 1950s and 1960s, Chicago Helicopter Airways tapped into the growing demand to connect both of Chicago's major airports. The business thrived until an accident on July 27th, 1960.

Flight 698 was scheduled to fly from Midway to O'Hare. The helicopter arrived from O'Hare Airport at 22:15 CDT. Operated by a Sikorsky S-58C, the flight departed Chicago Midway Airport with two pilots and 11 passengers onboard.

VFR conditions prevailed when one of the main rotor blades broke away, and the flight crew attempted an autorotation. Unfortunately, the aircraft's tail section detached, the helicopter spun nose-down into the ground at a local cemetery, and all aboard perished. After this, air service between both airports faded away.

And automobiles…

The easiest way to connect between the two airports in terms of time is by car. Depending on traffic, the trip from one to another is between 45 and 60 minutes. However, if you are right in the middle of the rush hour, you should expect to have to contend with much longer drive times.

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft provide quick pickup waiting periods and secured service. However, international travelers may need to opt for taxis, and the wait time can be anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour during peak periods.

Rates will vary depending on the time of day, weather, and cab service. You may also use the "Shared Ride" taxi service if multiple parties are available for the trip. Shared ride fares from Midway to O'Hare are approximately $40 per person.

Whatever connection option you choose, having the opportunity to experience Midway and O'Hare on the same day can be a special treat, as each airport offers its own flavor and niche, equally providing a host of flights to choose from. Most importantly, Midway and O'Hare are your gateways to America's 'Windy City,' making flying to Chicago worthwhile.

What are your thoughts on the ways to travel between the two Chicago airports? Share your views in the comments section.

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  Chicago O'Hare International Airport

  IATA/ICAO Code:

  ORD/KORD

  CEO:

  Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) Commissioner Jamie Rhee

  Runways :

  4L/22R - 2,286m (7500 ft) | 4R/22L - 2,461m (8075 ft) | 9L/27R - 2,286m (7500 ft) | 9C/27C - 3,428m (11,245 ft) | 9R/27L - 2,428m (7,967 ft) | 10L/28R - 3,962m (13,000 ft) | 10C/28C - 3,292m (10,801 ft) | 10R/28L - 2,286m (7500 ft)

  Airlines:

  American Airlines, United Airlines

  Country:

  United States

  Passenger Count :

  54,020,339 (2021)

  Terminals:

  Terminal 1 | Terminal 2 | Terminal 3 | Terminal 5