If you’re a business traveler flying into or out of Chicago, you’ve likely faced the same question more than once: Should I fly out of O’Hare or Midway?

Both airports have their advantages, but the best choice often depends on your destination, your schedule, and how you prefer to travel. In this guide, we’ll help you decide which airport better suits your business travel needs—offering real-world tips, data-backed comparisons, and insights from our team here at Viatas, Chicago’s trusted provider of executive black car and chauffeur services.

Quick Overview: Chicago O’Hare vs. Midway

Before diving deeper, let’s start with the basics.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Best for: Frequent flyers, long-distance trips, and international business travel

As one of the busiest airports in the world, O’Hare is a major hub for United Airlines and American Airlines and offers extensive domestic and global connectivity.

Key Benefits for Business Travelers

1. Global Connectivity
O’Hare offers nonstop flights to over 200 destinations, including key international business hubs like:

• London (LHR)
• Tokyo (NRT)
• Frankfurt (FRA)
• Toronto (YYZ)
• São Paulo (GRU)

If your work involves frequent international travel or connecting flights, O’Hare is often the more strategic choice.

2. Business-Friendly Amenities

• Executive lounges: United Polaris, American Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club
• Business services: On-site Hilton with meeting rooms
• Power outlets, fast Wi-Fi, and quiet spaces for working in most terminals

3. Transportation to O’Hare
While further from downtown, you can count on Viatas’ professional black car service to O’Hare for reliable, stress-free travel. Our chauffeurs track your flight and get you there with time to spare, every time.

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Best for: Domestic business trips, short-haul flights, and quick airport access

Midway may be smaller than O’Hare, but don’t overlook it. It’s often the more efficient option for regional business travel, especially if you’re flying with Southwest Airlines, which accounts for about 95% of Midway’s passenger traffic.

Why Business Travelers Love Midway

1. Proximity to the Loop
Located just 10 miles from downtown, Midway is often 15–20 minutes closer to central business districts like the Loop, River North, and West Loop—making it a great option when time is tight.

2. Shorter Security Lines and Walk Times
Midway’s compact layout means:

• Quicker TSA security (especially with PreCheck)
• Faster gate access—often just 15–20 minutes from drop-off to gate
• Easier navigation for those rushing to make a tight flight

3. Reliable Domestic Options
Great for regional business trips to cities like:

• New York (LaGuardia)
• Dallas (Love Field)
• Atlanta (ATL)
• Denver (DEN)

Many of these flights run frequently throughout the day, offering flexibility for business schedules.

O’Hare or Midway: Which Is Best for You?

Let’s break it down based on common business travel priorities.

Real-World Stats

According to FAA and DOT data:

• O’Hare handled 68.3 million passengers in 2023, compared to 22.7 million at Midway
• O’Hare offers international service to over 70 countries, while Midway has just a handful of international routes
• O’Hare’s on-time departure rate was 77.2% in 2023; Midway’s was slightly better at 80.5%

While Midway might get you there faster, it may have fewer departure times, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Which Chicago Airport Is Best for Business Travel?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But here’s a simple takeaway:

• Choose O’Hare if you’re flying internationally, need more airline options, or want access to executive lounges and premium services.
• Choose Midway if you’re traveling domestically, prefer faster security, or need to be close to downtown Chicago.

Reserve Your Airport Limo or Black Car Service with Viatas

When your schedule matters, every detail counts. At Viatas, we don’t just provide rides—we deliver a polished, professional, and punctual experience that reflects your high standards.

Book your next ride to O’Hare with Viatas and experience:

• On-time service, 24/7
• Flight tracking for seamless airport pickups
• Luxury vehicles and professional chauffeurs
• Personalized service backed by our Four Pillars of Excellence

Call us today at 1 (800) 421-0607 or book online to schedule your next airport limo or car service in Chicago.