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Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), operating the majority of its flights through the airport. Known for its extensive domestic route network and no-frills service, Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal one of its busiest hubs, handling millions of passengers annually. If you're flying with Southwest from Midway, understanding the layout, services, and processes at the terminal can make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Overview of Southwest Airlines at MDW
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively from Concourse A and Concourse B at MDW. These concourses are part of the main terminal complex and are well-connected via a central food court and shopping area. Most Southwest flights depart from Concourse B, though a few gates in Concourse A may also be used, especially during peak travel times.
Check-in and Ticketing
Southwest’s ticketing and check-in counters are located on the upper level of the main terminal. Upon entering the terminal, look for the prominent Southwest signage directing you to the airline's dedicated check-in area.
Passengers can check in using:
Self-service kiosks
The Southwest Airlines mobile app
Traditional ticket counters with airline agents
Southwest recommends arriving at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights to allow enough time for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening.
Security Screening
After checking in, proceed to the centralized security checkpoint. The TSA checkpoint services all concourses, and lines can get long during busy periods, especially early mornings and weekends. Fortunately, MDW is generally more efficient than larger airports like O’Hare.
If you’re enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you’ll find a dedicated lane that allows expedited screening with fewer restrictions on removing shoes, belts, or electronics. This can significantly reduce your wait time.
Gate Areas and Concourses
Concourse A
While Southwest uses this concourse to a limited extent, it features several gates with comfortable seating areas and some food and beverage options. If your Southwest flight departs from Concourse A, be aware that walking times to this concourse are slightly longer compared to Concourse B.
Concourse B
This is Southwest’s main area of operation at MDW. Concourse B houses the largest number of gates used by Southwest and offers a wide selection of dining, shopping, and seating options. You’ll find everything from quick snacks to full-service restaurants, duty-free stores, newsstands, and charging stations.
Dining and Shopping Options
Southwest passengers at MDW have access to a variety of amenities near the gate areas and in the central terminal. Some popular food options include:
Potbelly Sandwich Shop
Garrett Popcorn
Big Shoulders Coffee
Reilly’s Daughter (Irish pub-style dining)
Dunkin’ Donuts
Burger King
There are also several newsstands and travel accessory stores, including Hudson News, where you can pick up snacks, magazines, and travel essentials.
Southwest Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation
Arriving Southwest flights use Baggage Claim Level 1 on the lower level of the terminal. After deplaning, follow signs to the escalators or elevators leading to the baggage claim area. Carousel assignments are displayed on digital monitors.
Once you retrieve your luggage, you can access several ground transportation options:
Rental car services (shuttles from lower-level exits)
Taxi stands outside Door 3
App-based ride services (Uber/Lyft) pick up outside Door 2
CTA Orange Line for quick train access to downtown Chicago
Midway’s proximity to the city center makes it a convenient choice for travelers—only about 10 miles from downtown Chicago.
Accessibility and Assistance
Southwest Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and other accessibility services at MDW. Passengers should request these services in advance or notify an agent upon arrival. The airport is fully ADA-compliant, with ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, and assistance booths throughout the terminal.
Tips for Flying Southwest at MDW
Check-in early: Use the Southwest mobile app to check in exactly 24 hours before your flight for a better boarding position.
Know the boarding process: Southwest uses an open seating model—no assigned seats. Boarding groups (A, B, or C) and positions determine how early you can board.
Pack light: Southwest offers two free checked bags, a major perk. Take advantage of this if you're traveling with luggage.
Use the CTA: Avoid traffic and parking fees by using the Orange Line, which connects MDW to downtown Chicago in about 25 minutes.
Travel off-peak: Midway can get crowded during early mornings, holidays, and weekends. Flying during mid-day hours often means shorter lines and less stress.
Conclusion
Southwest Airlines' operations at Chicago Midway International Airport offer passengers a convenient, accessible, and efficient travel experience. With its user-friendly terminal layout, extensive domestic flight options, and essential services like free checked bags and easy check-in, MDW is a standout hub for Southwest flyers. The combination of well-organized concourses, a wide variety of food and retail options, and efficient ground transportation makes MDW ideal for both seasoned and first-time travelers. Whether you’re heading out on a quick domestic trip or connecting through Chicago, the Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal is equipped to handle your journey with ease and comfort.
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