Chicago has two major airports, and you need to check both

Chicago has two airports that handle commercial flights: O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). When you hear "Chicago airport," most people mean O'Hare, which is larger and handles more flights. But if you're flying in or out of Chicago, your airline ticket tells you which one you're using — check your confirmation email or boarding pass.

Both airports can close or reduce operations due to weather, mechanical issues, or other disruptions. A closure at one airport does not mean the other is closed. You must check the specific airport your flight uses, not just "Chicago airports" in general.

The fastest way to know if your airport is open is to call your airline directly or check their website with your flight number. The airline knows in real time whether your specific flight is running, delayed, or cancelled. The airport's own status page tells you whether the airport itself is accepting flights, but your airline has the final word on your flight.

Key Takeaways

  • O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) are Chicago's two commercial airports, and they can have different operating statuses.
  • Your airline's website or customer service line will tell you whether your specific flight is running, delayed, or cancelled — this is faster and more accurate than checking the airport's general status.
  • The FAA's website shows real-time delays and closures at both airports, but does not tell you about individual flights.
  • Weather is the most common reason for flight delays or cancellations at Chicago airports, especially in winter.
  • If your flight is cancelled, your airline is required to rebook you on the next available flight at no extra cost or refund your ticket.

Check your airline's website first

Open your airline's website and log in with your confirmation number and last name, or search for your flight by route and date. Most airlines show the current status of each flight — on time, delayed, or cancelled. This takes 30 seconds and gives you the most current information for your specific flight.

If you do not have internet access, call your airline's customer service number. The number is on your ticket or confirmation email. Tell them your confirmation number and they will tell you the status of your flight when ready. Wait times vary, but you will reach a person who can answer questions about your specific booking.

Check the FAA's real-time delay information

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) publishes real-time information about airport operations at faa.gov/air-traffic/. Search for "O'Hare" or "Midway" and you will see whether that airport is accepting flights, the average delay time, and the reason for any delays (weather, runway maintenance, volume, etc.).

This tells you whether the airport itself is open and operating, but it does not tell you about your individual flight. An airport can be open but your flight can still be cancelled due to crew issues, mechanical problems, or other airline-specific reasons. Always check your airline's status in addition to the airport's status.

What causes Chicago airport closures and delays

Winter weather is the most common cause of delays and occasional closures at Chicago airports. Snow, ice, and low visibility can force the FAA to reduce the number of flights landing per hour. Thunderstorms in summer can also cause delays. Both O'Hare and Midway are inland, so they do not close for hurricanes or coastal weather.

Runway maintenance, air traffic volume during peak travel times, and mechanical issues with airport equipment can also slow operations. These delays are usually measured in minutes to a few hours. A complete closure of either airport is rare and usually lasts only a few hours.

What to do if your flight is delayed or cancelled

If your flight is delayed, your airline will usually announce the new departure time on their website and through text or email alerts (if you signed up for them). Delays of more than three hours may may have access to you to a meal voucher or hotel room, depending on the airline and the reason for the delay. Check your airline's policy on their website.

If your flight is cancelled, your airline must rebook you on the next available flight to your destination at no extra cost. You can also request a refund of your ticket price if you no longer want to travel. Ask the airline or check their website for the rebooking process — some airlines handle this automatically, and others require you to call.

Track your flight in real time

Once you know your flight is running, you can track it in real time using your airline's app or website. Most airlines show the aircraft's current location, estimated departure and arrival times, and gate information (once you arrive at the airport). This helps you know when to head to the airport and which gate to go to.

Third-party flight tracking apps like FlightAware also show real-time aircraft location and can send you alerts if your flight's status changes. These apps work for any airline and do not require you to log in with your booking information.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if Chicago airports are closed right now?

Check your airline's website with your flight number first — that is the fastest way to know if your flight is running. Then check the FAA's website at faa.gov/air-traffic/ and search for O'Hare or Midway to see the airport's overall operating status. Both pieces of information together tell you whether you can fly.

What is the difference between O'Hare and Midway?

O'Hare is Chicago's larger airport and handles more flights. Midway is smaller and serves fewer airlines and destinations. Your ticket tells you which airport you are using. Both can close or delay independently, so check the specific airport on your ticket.

Can I get a refund if my flight is cancelled?

Yes. If your flight is cancelled, you can request a full refund of your ticket price instead of rebooking on another flight. Contact your airline through their website or customer service line. The airline must process the refund within a set timeframe, which varies by airline and payment method.

Will Chicago airports close in winter?

Complete closures are rare. Heavy snow or ice may cause delays or reduce the number of flights landing per hour, but both airports stay open most of the time. Check your airline's status before heading to the airport during winter weather.

How far in advance do airlines announce cancellations?

Airlines usually announce cancellations 24 hours before departure, but sometimes they cancel flights closer to departure time if weather worsens or mechanical issues arise. Check your airline's website and sign up for text or email alerts so you know when ready if your flight changes.