Southwest Airlines ORD Terminal+1-855-742-0149

Southwest Airlines ORD Terminal one of America’s most popular low-cost carriers, expanded its operations to Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to complement its longstanding presence at Chicago Midway Airport. Known for affordable fares, no change fees, and two free checked bags, Southwest’s arrival at O’Hare has been welcomed by travelers seeking more options from this major hub. At ORD, Southwest operates exclusively from Terminal 5, a terminal originally built for international flights but recently renovated to accommodate both international and domestic airlines. This blog explores what passengers can expect when flying Southwest from ORD, including terminal facilities, arrival and departure procedures, services, lounges, and helpful tips.

Terminal 5 Overview

Terminal 5 at O’Hare is a modern, spacious facility designed with international travelers in mind, but now also welcoming domestic airlines like Southwest. It features a long concourse called Concourse M, which stretches across 35 to 40 gates. Southwest flights generally operate from gates located at the far end of this concourse, often from gate M28 and above.

The terminal boasts an updated design with bright lighting, ample seating, and digital signage. Passengers can enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi, charging stations, family restrooms, and water bottle refill stations throughout the terminal. However, while the main entrance and security areas offer various dining and shopping options, amenities become quite limited once you move toward the gates used by Southwest. This makes it advisable to purchase food, drinks, and any essentials before heading down the concourse to your gate.

Arrival at ORD Terminal 5

Passengers arriving at O’Hare on Southwest flights will typically disembark into Terminal 5. Although the terminal mainly serves international arrivals, Southwest flights arriving at ORD are directed here to consolidate airline operations.

Upon arrival, passengers follow signs toward baggage claim and ground transportation. If you have checked luggage, it will be delivered to designated carousels near the terminal’s lower level. The terminal is equipped with clear signage and helpful staff to assist passengers as they navigate to car rentals, rideshares, taxis, or public transit options.

Terminal 5 is connected to other O’Hare terminals via the Airport Transit System (ATS), a free automated train that shuttles passengers between terminals and parking facilities. This convenient connection makes transferring to other terminals for connecting flights relatively straightforward, though security must be re-cleared if moving between terminals.

Departure Procedures

For departures, Southwest passengers check in at Terminal 5’s upper level. The terminal provides staffed ticket counters as well as self-service kiosks for printing boarding passes and checking luggage. Southwest encourages travelers to check in online up to 24 hours before their flight, allowing passengers to select boarding positions in advance, which is important due to Southwest’s open seating policy.

After check-in, passengers proceed through security screening. Terminal 5 offers TSA PreCheck for eligible travelers, which can speed up the process; however, the terminal does not have a dedicated Southwest lane, and wait times may vary depending on travel volume. It’s advisable to arrive at least two hours prior to domestic flights to allow enough time for security and the walk to the gate.

Following security, passengers walk down Concourse M toward their gate. Southwest’s gates are located near the far end of the concourse, which can mean a 10 to 20-minute walk. Moving walkways are available for parts of the route, but travelers should be prepared for a considerable trek, especially if carrying heavy luggage or traveling with children.

Services and Amenities

Terminal 5 offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the traveler’s experience:

• Dining: A variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars are located mainly near the main terminal and security areas. Options include sit-down restaurants and grab-and-go counters. Near the Southwest gates, however, dining options are very limited, so grabbing snacks or meals before the walk to the gate is wise.
  
  

• Shopping: Duty-free shops, travel essentials, newsstands, and souvenir stores populate the terminal’s main areas. Shopping opportunities decrease significantly near Southwest’s gates.
  
  

• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Terminal 5, and multiple charging stations are provided near seating areas to keep devices powered.
  
  

• Family-friendly features: Terminal 5 includes family restrooms, children’s play areas, and stroller services to accommodate travelers with young children.
  
  

• Accessibility: The terminal is fully accessible, offering wheelchair assistance, elevators, and accessible restrooms to support passengers with mobility needs.
  
  

• Transportation: Ground transportation is well-organized with clear signage directing passengers to rental car counters, rideshare pickup points, taxis, and public transit, all accessible within short walking distances.
  
  

Lounges

Southwest Airlines does not operate a proprietary lounge at O’Hare. However, Terminal 5 has several third-party lounges available to passengers:

• The Swissport Lounge near Gate M13 can be accessed via Priority Pass, LoungeKey, or by purchasing a day pass. However, many travelers find this lounge small, crowded, and underwhelming.
  
  

• Other lounges include the Delta Sky Club (near gates M11 and M14), the SAS Lounge (near M19), and the LOT Business Lounge by the food court. These are available to eligible airline passengers or via lounge membership programs.
  
  

Passengers flying Southwest can use these lounges if they have access through credit cards or loyalty programs, but lounge options specifically dedicated to Southwest are not available at Terminal 5.

Tips for Travelers

Travelers flying Southwest from ORD Terminal 5 should keep a few things in mind to make their experience smoother:

• Arrive early: Due to long walks to gates and potentially busy security lines, arriving two hours before departure is recommended.
  
  

• Prepare for the walk: Wear comfortable shoes and travel light if possible, as gates can be a lengthy walk from the security checkpoint.
  
  

• Bring snacks: Limited dining options near Southwest gates mean it’s best to eat or buy food before heading to the gate.
  
  

• Check gate assignments: Southwest sometimes changes gates, so stay updated through the Southwest app or airport monitors.
  
  

• Use TSA PreCheck: If eligible, enroll in TSA PreCheck to expedite security screening.
  
  

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines at ORD Terminal offers travelers a valuable alternative to Midway Airport, broadening travel options within the Chicago area. While Terminal 5 boasts modern facilities, free Wi-Fi, family-friendly amenities, and ample transportation options, Southwest passengers should be prepared for the terminal’s long walking distances and limited gate-area services.

By planning ahead—arriving early, securing boarding passes in advance, and grabbing food before gate areas—passengers can enjoy a smooth and stress-free experience flying Southwest from ORD. The terminal’s recent renovations and convenient access to transit make it a solid choice for those flying Southwest in and out of Chicago’s busiest airport.