Chicago Midway International Airport
Chicago, United States
MDW Historical Analytics
90-day wait time patterns, hourly breakdowns, and best/worst time predictions for Chicago Midway International Airport.
Unlock with PremiumAbout Chicago Midway International Airport
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) serves Chicago in United States. Travelers flying through MDW can expect average security wait times of around 37 minutes, though this varies by time of day and season.
TSA PreCheck is available at MDW, letting enrolled travelers skip the standard screening line. PreCheck passengers typically wait about 8 minutes compared to the 37-minute standard line.
MDW Airport FAQs
How long is the security line at MDW?
Security wait times at Chicago Midway International Airport vary by time of day and day of week. Check the wait time cards above for current estimates. Peak hours (6-9 AM, 4-7 PM) typically have longer waits.
Does MDW have TSA PreCheck?
Yes, Chicago Midway International Airport has TSA PreCheck lanes available. PreCheck members typically experience significantly shorter security wait times.
How early should I arrive at MDW?
For domestic flights, arrive at least 2 hours early. For international flights, arrive 3 hours early. During peak travel periods and holidays, add an extra 30-60 minutes.
What terminals does MDW have?
Check the airport map for terminal information.
Departure Information
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Quick Info
Peak Hours
Tips for MDW
- Arrive at least 90 minutes early for domestic and 150 minutes for international flights.
- Security is typically busiest 6-9 AM and 4-7 PM. Midday flights (11 AM-2 PM) usually have the shortest queues.
- TSA PreCheck is available here. Enrolled travelers typically wait about 2 minutes — roughly half the standard line.
- Check-in online and have your boarding pass ready on your phone to save time at the airport.
Arrival Time
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GET STARTED FREEMDW Airport FAQ
How long is the security line at MDW?
Security wait times at Chicago Midway International Airport vary by time of day and day of week. Peak hours (6-9 AM, 4-7 PM) typically see the longest waits. FlightQueue provides real-time estimates based on historical data and crowd reports.
What is the best time to go through security at MDW?
The best times for shorter security lines at Chicago Midway are typically mid-morning (10-11 AM) and early afternoon (1-3 PM). Avoid the morning rush (6-9 AM) and evening peak (4-7 PM).
How early should I arrive at MDW?
For domestic flights at Chicago Midway, arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. For international flights, arrive 2.5-3 hours early. During peak travel periods, add an extra 30 minutes.
Does MDW have TSA PreCheck?
Yes, Chicago Midway International Airport offers TSA PreCheck lanes for faster security screening. Check FlightQueue for the latest checkpoint data.