Cheap Flights from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) to Chicago (CHI)

Flights from Atlanta to Chicago

This information is correct as of August 2015

Airlines that fly from Atlanta to Chicago

Six airlines fly from Atlanta to Chicago-O’Hare: Spirit Airlines, United Airlines, American Airlines, US Airways, Frontier Airlines, and Delta.

Two airlines flies from Atlanta to Chicago-Midway: Southwest Airlines and Delta.

Terminal Information - Departing

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport is the sole airport that services the Atlanta region. Millions of passengers pass through the airport each year, making Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport one of the busiest in America. It is located 10 miles south of downtown Atlanta.

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has two terminals that have numerous food and beverage options for travelers. From fast food restaurants and bars to snack kiosks and sit-down restaurants, there is something for everyone.

For those looking to do some shopping during their layover in Atlanta or before their flight, there are many stores in the airport that sell items ranging from electronics and luggage to clothing and souvenirs.

Travelers who love to spend their free time in a sauna or getting a massage have the option of visiting two different spas in the airport, and for those who prefer relaxing away from the hustle and bustle there are three different lounges available to escape from the crowds: Delta Sky Club, American Airlines Admiral Club, and a unique mini-suite rest area called The Club at ATL.

Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport has numerous power ports and charging stations available for those travelers looking to charge their phones or do some work on their laptops before their flight. There is also free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.

Terminal Information – Arriving

There are two airports that service the Chicago area: Chicago-O’Hare and Chicago-Midway.

Chicago-O’Hare is located northwest of the city of Chicago, 20 miles from the center of the city. There are 4 terminals at O’Hare Airport that service the roughly 70 million passengers that travel through Chicago each year.

Multiple transportation options are available to travelers arriving at O’Hare. The bus and rail system are available for those looking to travel via public transportation. Taxis, limousines, Uber, and car rental services are available to all travelers.

Chicago-Midway is located southwest of Chicago, 10 miles away from the center of the city. Midway has 1 terminal for travelers, as the airport is significantly than O’Hare.

The public transportation available from Midway to Chicago is via bus and rail. Taxis, limousines, Uber, and car rental services are all available to travelers.

Practical Information

Because both Atlanta and Chicago reside within the United States there is no need for a passport to travel between the two cities. Any government issued photo identification is allowed for passengers to travel, and for those who lack a photo identification the TSA will still allow travel after additional screening by security staff.

Travelers are recommended to arrive at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport at least two hours before their flight. For flights that call for travelers to arrive in the evening (between 4pm-6pm), or if it is raining or snowing in Atlanta, or if it is a major holiday, it is recommended that travelers allow significant extra time for travel to the airport, as traffic in these situations will be greatly increased.

What to expect in Chicago

Chicago is on Central Standard Time, an hour behind Atlanta which is on Eastern Standard Time. The weather in Chicago is very different from Atlanta, with temperatures nearly always lower throughout the year. In the winter the temperature differences can be extreme, so be sure to bring a heavy coat if flying to Chicago during these months as Chicago is much colder than Atlanta during this time.

Chicago is a large city, with many transportation options ranging from public transportation via bus and light rail to livery services to taxis and ride-sharing companies. Renting a car may be a good option if you will be traveling throughout the region, but be forewarned that parking in the city can be very expensive.

Overall, Chicago is a more expensive city than Atlanta with regards to transportation, living expenses, and restaurant prices. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant in Chicago is roughly 8% higher in price than in Atlanta.