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Airports in Chicago are among the busiest and most connected to the cities in the United States regarding air travel. With multiple airports offering commercial and private aviation services, Chicago is a significant hub for domestic and international flights. The city caters to various travel needs, from large international airports to smaller regional and private airports. The top airports in Chicago with the airlines and transportation options, helps travellers easily navigate the city’s air travel landscape.
10 Top Airports In Chicago
Here are the top airports in Chicago for you to explore, serving a wide range of passenger and aviation services:
1. O’Hare International Airport
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O’Hare International Airport, situated 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, is among the busiest in the world. The airport provides a wide range of services, including duty-free shopping, lounges and a large number of restaurants. Ground transportation options are extensive, allowing for simple access to and from the airport. O’Hare’s extensive amenities and global connectivity make it an important centre for travellers, ensuring a smooth and convenient travel experience.
Location: 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, in the O’Hare neighbourhood
Airlines Operating: United Airlines and American Airlines, with international and domestic services from other airlines like Delta and Southwest
2. Midway International Airport
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Midway International Airport is the second-largest airport in Chicago. It is known for being a primary base for Southwest Airlines. While it mainly focuses on domestic flights, Midway also offers services to select international destinations. The airport is much smaller and more manageable than O’Hare. This makes it a domestic airport in Chicago for travellers who want to avoid long lines. The airport offers numerous dining options, shops and ground transportation services.
Location: 10 miles southwest of downtown Chicago in the Garfield Ridge neighbourhood
Airlines Operating: Major airlines, including Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines and Delta, with a focus on domestic flights
3. Chicago Rockford International Airport
Photo: Jake Mackenzie (Transfinite) / Wikimedia Commons
Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) serves as a regional airport for the northern suburbs of Chicago. It provides an alternative for travellers seeking low-cost flight options, making it one of the best airports in Chicago. It is located approximately 68 miles (109 km) northwest of downtown Chicago. The airport is particularly appealing to budget-minded passengers due to its competitive pricing and the services offered by Allegiant Air. It also operates numerous routes primarily to popular vacation destinations across the United States.
Location: About 85 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, Rockford, Illinois
Airlines Operating: Allegiant Air and seasonal services from other low-cost carriers
4. Gary/Chicago International Airport
Photo: Mike Burdett / Wikimedia Commons
Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY) is 25 miles southeast of downtown Chicago in Gary, Indiana. While it primarily serves private and charter aviation, it lacks primary commercial airline services. The airport is convenient for business travellers from Chicago’s southern and eastern suburbs. GYY features modern facilities, including a U.S. Customs centre for international flights and is easily accessible by car. Although public transportation options are limited, the airport’s growing regional presence makes it an essential hub for private and business aviation needs.
Location: About 25 miles southeast of downtown Chicago, in Gary, Indiana
Airlines Operating: No major commercial airlines exist, but charter services and private aviation operate from the airport
5. DuPage Airport
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It is one of the busiest airports in Chicago, serving as a vital hub for international and domestic flights. DPA facilitates seamless travel for millions of passengers annually with connections to over 115 destinations worldwide. The airport boasts modern amenities, featuring various dining options, shopping outlets and comfortable lounges. Efficient transportation links like the Canada Line SkyTrain ensure easy access to downtown Vancouver. Committed to sustainability and exceptional service, DPA is recognized as one of the top airports globally, enhancing the travel experience for all.
Location: Located in West Chicago, about 30 miles west of downtown Chicago
Airlines Operating: General aviation, flight schools and private charter services
6. Chicago Executive Airport
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Chicago Executive Airport is a premier destination for private and corporate aviation. It is strategically located in the northern suburbs of Chicago. It is a critical hub for general aviation, offering various services, including private jet charters, flight training and aircraft maintenance. While it does not accommodate commercial airline operations, the airport is a cornerstone for business and recreational pilots. Modern facilities and professional services make it a preferred and one of the best choices for discerning aviation needs.
Location: Wheeling, Illinois, about 25 miles north of downtown Chicago
Airlines Operating: Primarily general aviation, including charter services and private aviation
7. Aurora Municipal Airport
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Aurora Municipal Airport is a well-equipped general aviation facility located in the western suburbs of Chicago. It caters primarily to private aviation, flight schools and charter services. The airport is a favoured choice for business and recreational pilots due to its strategic location and comprehensive amenities. While it does not host commercial airline traffic, it offers vital services such as fueling, aircraft maintenance and spacious hangar facilities. Its accessibility via I-88 and local roads ensures a seamless travel experience, making Aurora Municipal a crucial hub for the region’s aviation community.
Location: Located in Aurora, Illinois, about 40 miles west of downtown Chicago
Airlines Operating: General aviation, flight schools, and private charters
8. Waukegan National Airport
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Waukegan National Airport is located about 35 miles north of Chicago. It serves as a critical facility for general aviation, offering charter flights and flight training. While it lacks commercial airline services, it is popular among pilots and businesses needing quick access to the Chicago metropolitan area. The airport features two runways and a U.S. Customs office for international arrivals. Its proximity to Interstate 94 ensures convenient travel from downtown Chicago and northern suburbs. Established in 1956, Waukegan National Airport supports local economic growth by providing essential aviation services and fostering a vibrant regional aviation community.
Location: Waukegan, Illinois, approximately 40 miles north of downtown Chicago
Airlines Operating: General aviation, charter services and private aviation
9. Schaumburg Regional Airport
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Schaumburg Regional Airport is located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago. It is a dedicated general aviation facility that primarily serves private pilots, flight schools and charter operators. Although it does not accommodate commercial airline traffic, the airport offers essential services such as fueling, aircraft maintenance and hangar space. Its strategic location near Interstate 90 ensures easy accessibility for travellers and pilots. Schaumburg Regional Airport is vital in supporting small aircraft operations and business aviation needs in the region. This makes it a key hub for the local aviation community and contributes significantly to the area’s economic activity.
Location: Schaumburg, Illinois, about 30 miles northwest of downtown Chicago
Airlines Operating: General aviation, private charter services, and flight training
10. Lewis University Airport
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Lewis University Airport is a specialized general aviation airport in Romeoville, Illinois. The airport, closely associated with Lewis University’s aviation program, is an important training facility for future pilots. While it does not offer commercial passenger services, it provides critical infrastructure for flight education, aircraft maintenance and general aviation activities. One among the best airports in Chicago, it features modern facilities that support pilot training, including runways, hangars and advanced aviation technology resources.
Location: Romeoville, Illinois, approximately 35 miles southwest of downtown Chicago
Airlines Operating: Flight training, general aviation, and private charter services
Airports in Chicago have a diverse selection of airports catered to every type of traveller, from those flying internationally to those seeking private aviation services. Chicago offers a variety of options for convenient and efficient travel. Whether you are flying domestically, internationally or on a private jet, Chicago’s airports provide excellent access to the city and surrounding areas. For all your travel needs, TripXL can help you quickly book your flights and plan your journey.
Cover Photo: Matthew T Rader / Wikimedia Commons
