British Airways MDW Terminal: A Complete Guide for Travelers
Flying with British Airways through Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) can be a convenient experience if you know what to expect. Unlike the larger O'Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway Airport offers a more compact and traveler-friendly environment.

This guide provides all the essential information you need about the British Airways MDW Terminal, including check-in details, baggage policies, security procedures, airport amenities, dining, shopping, and transportation options.

Does British Airways Operate from MDW?
As of now, British Airways does not operate direct flights from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW). Instead, British Airways primarily operates international flights from O’Hare International Airport (ORD) in Chicago.

Alternative Options for British Airways Travelers
If you are looking for British Airways flights from Chicago, you will need to depart from O'Hare International Airport (ORD), which is the main hub for international flights.

If you are flying from Midway Airport (MDW) and want to connect to a British Airways flight, you may need to book a domestic flight with another airline from MDW to a hub airport such as New York (JFK), Boston (BOS), or Dallas (DFW), where British Airways operates international services.

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) Overview
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is smaller than O'Hare but still serves millions of passengers annually. It primarily operates domestic flights, making it a popular choice for regional travelers and budget airlines.

MDW Terminals and Layout
Midway Airport has a single terminal divided into three concourses:

Concourse A – Used by Southwest Airlines and some other domestic carriers

Concourse B – Used for various domestic flights

Concourse C – Handles a limited number of domestic operations

Since British Airways does not operate from MDW, you will need to check alternative domestic carriers that can connect you to a British Airways hub.

Connecting from MDW to ORD for British Airways Flights
If you are flying out of Chicago Midway (MDW) but need to catch a British Airways flight from O'Hare (ORD), there are multiple transportation options available:

1. Taxi or Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Travel Time: Around 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic

Estimated Fare: $50-$70

2. CTA ‘L’ Train (Orange Line & Blue Line)
Take the CTA Orange Line from MDW to Clark/Lake Station

Transfer to the CTA Blue Line to O'Hare

Total Travel Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes

Cost: $2.50 per ride

3. Shuttle Services
Some private shuttle services operate between MDW and ORD

Pre-booking is recommended for a hassle-free transfer

If you are flying into MDW but need to catch a British Airways flight from O'Hare, plan your transfer time carefully to avoid missing your international connection.

British Airways Check-In Options (For ORD Departures)
Since British Airways flights do not operate from MDW, if you are traveling from Chicago O’Hare (ORD) instead, here are the check-in options available:

1. Online Check-In (Preferred Option)
Available 24 hours before departure

Use the British Airways website or mobile app

Allows seat selection, boarding pass download, and baggage check-in

2. Airport Check-In at ORD
British Airways check-in counters at ORD are located in Terminal 5

Check-in closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights

Self-service kiosks are available for quick check-in

3. Baggage Drop-Off at ORD
If you have already checked in online, you can proceed directly to the bag drop counters
Baggage Policies for British Airways
British Airways has specific baggage policies depending on the ticket class and route.

Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Economy & Premium Economy: 1 cabin bag + 1 personal item

Business & First Class: 2 cabin bags + 1 personal item

Maximum weight: 51 lbs (23 kg) per carry-on

Checked Baggage Allowance
Economy Class: 1 checked bag (50 lbs / 23 kg max)

Premium Economy: 2 checked bags

Business & First Class: Up to 3 checked bags

Baggage fees may apply for extra or overweight luggage.

Dining and Shopping at MDW
Even though British Airways does not operate from MDW, travelers flying from Midway can enjoy a variety of restaurants and shopping options before their flights.

Dining Options at MDW
McDonald's – Classic fast food option

Potbelly Sandwich Shop – Fresh sandwiches and salads

Dunkin’ – Coffee and donuts

Harry Caray’s Tavern – Sit-down dining with American cuisine

Garrett Popcorn – Famous Chicago-style popcorn

Shopping at MDW
Hudson News – Books, snacks, and travel essentials

Duty-Free Store – For international travelers (ORD only)

Chicago Sports Store – Souvenirs and team merchandise

Transportation Options from MDW
If you’re flying into MDW and need to transfer to another airport or city, here are your options:

1. Public Transportation (CTA ‘L’ Train)
Orange Line connects MDW to downtown Chicago

Cost: $2.50 per ride

Travel time to downtown: 30 minutes

2. Taxis and Rideshares
Uber, Lyft, and taxis are available outside MDW

Estimated fare to downtown: $30-$40

3. Car Rentals
Major rental companies available, including Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis
Tips for British Airways Passengers Flying from Chicago
✔️ Confirm your departure airport: British Airways flies from ORD (O'Hare), not MDW (Midway).
✔️ Allow enough time for airport transfers if you need to travel between MDW and ORD.
✔️ Check British Airways baggage policies before traveling to avoid extra fees.
✔️ Use the CTA train system to save money on airport transfers.
✔️ Book connecting flights carefully if flying domestic from MDW before a British Airways flight.

Conclusion
While British Airways does not operate from MDW, travelers looking to fly with British Airways from Chicago must use O’Hare International Airport (ORD) instead.

If you’re flying into MDW and need to catch a British Airways flight at ORD, plan your airport transfer carefully using taxis, shuttles, or public transport. Midway Airport itself offers a range of dining, shopping, and transport options, making it a convenient hub for domestic travelers.

For a smooth experience with British Airways, ensure you check in online, arrive early at ORD Terminal 5, and understand baggage policies.

Would you like help finding alternative flight connections from MDW to British Airways hubs? Let me know! ✈️