Southwest Airlines to discontinue service at Chicago’s O’Hare

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Southwest Airlines had only been operating at O'Hare since 2021, before announcing it will discontinue service there. Photo: Shutterstock

Chicago, IL (CHAMBANA TODAY) – Southwest Airlines announced Friday that it will end service at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, effective June 4. The airline said operating at O’Hare has been challenging and that it plans to concentrate on its longstanding base at Chicago Midway, which will continue to serve more than 80 destinations, including the 15 markets formerly served from O’Hare.

The airline first launched flights at O’Hare in 2021. Southwest said affected employees can bid for open positions across its network, including at Midway Airport, where it will operate up to 244 daily departures.

The announcement comes amid a Federal Aviation Administration review that could limit O’Hare flight operations to 2,800 per day due to congestion and overscheduling. O’Hare is also undergoing a $6 billion renovation that includes a new global terminal to replace Terminal 2.

Southwest has recently made several changes, including new baggage policies, seating arrangements, and boarding procedures, as part of a broader effort to improve passenger options and boost revenue.

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