Southwest Airlines is the primary carrier at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), operating the majority of flights at the airport. With a centralized terminal layout and user-friendly design, the Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal is favored for its convenience, especially compared to the larger and busier Chicago O’Hare.
If you’re flying Southwest into or out of Midway, this guide covers everything you need to know — including check-in, gates, security, food options, baggage claim, and accessibility.
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Terminal Layout and Concourses
Midway operates with a single terminal building that branches into three concourses: A, B, and C. All Southwest flights — domestic and international — are serviced from this main terminal complex. Concourses are laid out in a compact manner, allowing for easy walking between gates.
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Concourse A: Gates A1–A19
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Concourse B: Gates B1–B26
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Concourse C: Gates C1–C3
Concourse A connects directly to Concourse C, while Concourse B runs parallel. Southwest utilizes all three concourses exclusively, making for streamlined operations and less confusion for travelers.
Check-In and Security
Southwest’s check-in counters are located on the south end of the terminal’s upper level, just inside the main entrance. Travelers can choose from self-service kiosks, bag-drop stations, or full-service counters for assistance.
To save time, use the Southwest app or website to check in 24 hours before departure. Those who purchase EarlyBird Check-In or upgraded boarding receive better boarding positions in Southwest’s open-seating system.
Boarding Process
Southwest doesn’t assign seats; instead, passengers board based on their group (A, B, or C) and number (1–60). Boarding positions are determined by check-in time or purchased upgrades. Passengers with disabilities, families with small children, and A-List or A-List Preferred members may qualify for priority boarding.
Dining and Shopping
Southwest passengers at MDW have access to a wide selection of dining spots spread across the concourses and central market area. Top choices include:
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Billy Goat Tavern – Chicago-style burgers and beer
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Garrett Popcorn Shops – Famous for Chicago mix popcorn
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Reilly’s Daughter – Full-service Irish pub
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Big Shoulders Coffee – Locally roasted coffee
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Potbelly Sandwich Shop and Dunkin’ – Quick meals and snacks
Travelers can also shop for reading material, electronics, and souvenirs at:
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Hudson News
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Chicago Market
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Tech on the Go
Charging stations and free Wi-Fi are available throughout the terminal for convenience.
Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation
Arriving passengers collect luggage on the lower level of the terminal. Baggage claim is organized and easy to navigate, with digital signs showing carousel assignments.
From baggage claim, travelers can easily access:
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Rideshare pickup zones (Uber/Lyft) outside Door 4
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CTA Orange Line for direct downtown access
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Rental Car Shuttle from Door 2
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Taxis, buses, and hotel shuttles in designated zones
Midway’s compact design makes connections between ground transport and the terminal quick and convenient.
Accessibility and Amenities
Midway and Southwest Airlines provide excellent accessibility services:
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Wheelchair assistance
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Elevators and ramps throughout the terminal
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Braille signage and visual paging systems
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TTY phones and accessible restrooms
For military personnel, a USO Lounge near Concourse C offers a quiet space to relax, complete with snacks and Wi-Fi.
International Travel from MDW
Southwest offers limited international flights to destinations like Cancún, Montego Bay, and Punta Cana. These flights typically depart from Concourse A or B.
International arrivals are processed through the Federal Inspection Services (FIS) area. Customs wait times are usually short, thanks to MDW’s smaller passenger volume compared to major international airports.
Travelers should arrive two hours early for international flights and ensure all travel documents are valid and up to date.
Final Tips for Flying Southwest at MDW
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Arrive Early: At least 90 minutes for domestic, 2 hours for international
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Check In Online: 24 hours ahead to secure a good boarding position
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Pack Light: For quicker security and easier boarding
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Bring a Power Bank: Charging stations can get crowded during busy hours
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Use the Southwest App: For mobile boarding passes and gate updates
Conclusion
The Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal is designed for efficiency and ease. With all flights operating from one terminal and Southwest-exclusive concourses, travelers experience fewer delays and shorter walks. Dining and shopping options are abundant, security is centralized, and access to downtown Chicago is fast via public transportation.
Whether you’re flying for business, vacation, or visiting friends and family, Southwest at MDW offers a pleasant and straightforward airport experience.