Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the most recognized aviation hubs in the world, handling tens of millions of travelers annually. Known for its massive size, four passenger terminals, and extensive route network, O’Hare is the primary airport for many domestic and global carriers. Traditionally, when Chicagoans thought of Southwest Airlines, they thought of Midway International Airport (MDW), which has been the carrier’s stronghold for decades.
In recent years, however, Southwest Airlines ORD Terminal expanded into O’Hare, giving passengers a second Chicago-area option to enjoy its budget-friendly fares, generous baggage policies, and friendly service. This shift allows the airline to reach more passengers who prefer O’Hare’s location or need its extensive connectivity for onward journeys.
This guide explains everything you need to know about Southwest Airlines at ORD, including its terminal, check-in process, amenities, transportation options, and insider tips for a smooth travel experience.
Southwest Airlines at ORD – An Overview
Southwest Airlines is a unique player in the U.S. aviation market. Instead of charging for every extra service, it includes many perks in the ticket price — two free checked bags, no change fees, and free snacks onboard.
While Midway Airport continues to be its primary Chicago base, Southwest’s decision to operate flights from O’Hare has expanded convenience for travelers, particularly those in Chicago’s northern and northwestern suburbs, nearby Wisconsin communities, and even business travelers who want easy access to O’Hare’s connections.
At O’Hare, Southwest operates from Terminal 5, which is primarily known for international flights but increasingly handles select domestic services as well. Terminal 5’s modern facilities and spacious design make it an excellent gateway for Southwest passengers.
Terminal 5 – What to Expect
Terminal 5 is located on the eastern side of O’Hare’s complex and is connected to other terminals and parking areas by the Airport Transit System (ATS) — an automated train that operates 24/7.
Highlights of Terminal 5 for Southwest passengers:
- Check-In Counters – Southwest’s counters are located on the departures level, clearly signposted for easy identification.
- Security Screening – Terminal 5 has multiple TSA security lanes, including TSA PreCheck for eligible travelers. Wait times are generally manageable, but can increase during early morning and evening rush hours.
- Gates – After clearing security, you’ll find wide concourses, open seating areas, and easy-to-navigate signage pointing to your departure gate.
Because Terminal 5 is heavily used by international carriers, it features a higher-end design and a variety of services not always found in older domestic terminals.
Check-In and Boarding
Southwest is famous for its open seating boarding style. There are no assigned seats; instead, passengers board in groups based on when they check in.
How to check in for your Southwest flight at ORD:
- Online/Mobile Check-In – Opens 24 hours before departure. Checking in early helps secure a better boarding group.
- Self-Service Kiosks – Available near the check-in counters for printing boarding passes and tagging checked bags.
- Staffed Counters – For travelers who need assistance, are checking special luggage, or have unique ticket issues.
Boarding process:
- Pre-boarding is offered to passengers with disabilities or those requiring additional time.
- Boarding then proceeds with Group A, followed by Groups B and C.
- Within each group, passengers board in numerical order (e.g., A1, A2, A3).
Baggage Services
One of the reasons travelers remain loyal to Southwest is its two free checked bags policy — a rarity in modern air travel. Each bag must not exceed 50 lbs and 62 linear inches in size.
At O’Hare:
- Checked baggage is dropped at the ticket counter or kiosk bag drop after check-in.
- Upon arrival, bags are collected at the Terminal 5 baggage claim area on the lower level. Screens above each carousel display flight numbers to guide passengers.
Amenities in Terminal 5
Terminal 5 is the most recently renovated part of O’Hare, offering a modern travel environment with a mix of comfort, convenience, and style.
Dining:
- A wide selection, including local Chicago favorites (deep-dish pizza, gourmet hot dogs), international cuisine, coffee bars, and grab-and-go stands.
Shopping:
- Duty-free outlets, fashion brands, travel gear shops, and souvenir stands are available before and after security.
Lounges:
- While Southwest doesn’t operate a lounge, independent lounges in Terminal 5 (such as the Swissport Lounge) can be accessed through memberships like Priority Pass or by purchasing a day pass.
Other amenities:
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.
- Charging ports at nearly every seating cluster.
- Nursing rooms and family restrooms.
- Accessibility services including wheelchair assistance, ramps, and accessible seating.
Transportation and Parking
Getting to and from Terminal 5 is straightforward thanks to O’Hare’s robust transport network.
- CTA Blue Line – A direct rail connection from downtown Chicago to the airport. From the Blue Line station at Terminal 2, the ATS connects passengers to Terminal 5.
- Airport Transit System (ATS) – Free automated train service between all terminals, parking facilities, and the Multi-Modal Facility (rental car center).
- Parking – Terminal 5 has short-term parking; long-term parking is available in the economy lots, linked by shuttle buses and ATS.
- Ride-Share & Taxis – Designated pick-up zones are located outside baggage claim.
- Rental Cars – All agencies operate from the Multi-Modal Facility.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Set a Check-In Alarm – Open seating means early check-in can determine whether you get your preferred seat.
- Use the Mobile App – It provides boarding group updates, gate info, and real-time flight notifications.
- Factor in Transfer Time – The ATS ride between terminals takes a few minutes, so plan accordingly if connecting.
- Arrive Early – Southwest recommends 90 minutes before domestic departures from ORD, or two hours if you’re less familiar with the terminal.
- Explore Before Boarding – Terminal 5 has plenty of dining and shopping to enjoy if you arrive with extra time.
ORD vs. MDW – Which is Better for Southwest Flights?
Choosing between O’Hare and Midway depends largely on where you live and where you’re going.
- Choose O’Hare if:
- You live north or northwest of Chicago.
- You need to connect to an international flight.
- You prefer a modern, spacious terminal.
- Choose Midway if:
- You live closer to Chicago’s south or southwest suburbs.
- You want a smaller, faster-to-navigate airport.
- You’re flying to a wider range of Southwest destinations.
Destinations Served from O’Hare
While Southwest’s schedule from ORD is smaller than at MDW, it still covers several high-demand destinations, often with multiple flights daily:
- Denver, CO (DEN)
- Phoenix, AZ (PHX)
- Dallas Love Field, TX (DAL)
- Nashville, TN (BNA)
- Las Vegas, NV (LAS)
Schedules change seasonally, so it’s best to confirm flights in advance.
The Future of Southwest at ORD
Southwest’s expansion into O’Hare is relatively recent, but the potential for growth is significant. With Terminal 5 renovations complete and domestic carriers increasingly using it, there’s room for Southwest to add more routes, increase frequency, and potentially explore new connecting opportunities.
For passengers, this means more travel flexibility — whether you value O’Hare’s global connections, its improved amenities, or its accessibility from certain parts of the Chicago area.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines at Chicago O’Hare International Airport’s Terminal 5 represents a strategic expansion that benefits both the airline and travelers. For passengers, it’s a chance to enjoy Southwest’s hallmark perks — two free checked bags, no change fees, and friendly service — while taking advantage of O’Hare’s modern facilities, public transit access, and connectivity to global destinations.
Terminal 5 provides an upgraded travel environment with diverse dining, extensive shopping, and comfortable spaces to relax before boarding. Whether you’re a Chicago local seeking convenience or a visitor connecting through one of the country’s largest airports, flying Southwest from O’Hare is a practical, comfortable, and cost-effective option.
As Southwest builds its presence at ORD, travelers can expect even more options, making O’Hare not just an international hub, but also a competitive gateway for affordable domestic travel.