Terminal 5 at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is the only location from which Southwest Airlines MDW Terminal operates. The airline's main hub serving the Midwest is this terminal. Travelers can easily access ticketing, baggage check, and security screening at Terminal 5, which is well-known for its effectiveness and simplicity. With destinations all over the United States and a few foreign countries, Southwest flights predominate at MDW. To improve the journey, the terminal has a lot of places to eat, shops, and cozy places to sit. It has excellent access to downtown Chicago through ride-sharing services and public transportation.

Terminal Overview

Southwest Airlines operates primarily out of Concourse B at Midway Airport. Concourse B is part of MDW’s single terminal building, which houses three concourses (A, B, and C) and is organized for seamless passenger flow. As the primary airline at MDW, Southwest manages most of the flights originating from and arriving at the airport.

Layout and Accessibility

The terminal is designed for convenience, with Concourse B located just past the central security checkpoint. Passengers can access the concourse directly after clearing security. The layout includes wide walkways, numerous seating areas, and clear signage to guide travelers to their gates. Gates in Concourse B are numbered sequentially, making it easy to navigate.

MDW is a compact airport compared to Chicago O’Hare, making it relatively simple to move between check-in, security, and the gates. Southwest passengers benefit from this compact design, as it reduces walking time and ensures smoother connections.

Check-In and Security

Southwest Airlines offers multiple check-in options at MDW, including traditional counters, self-service kiosks, and curbside check-in. The Southwest ticket counters are located on the upper level of the terminal building, near the entrance. Passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights to allow ample time for check-in and security screening.

The TSA security checkpoint at Midway is located centrally in the terminal. Southwest passengers should be prepared for standard TSA procedures and are encouraged to enroll in TSA PreCheck to expedite the process. MDW also offers CLEAR, a biometric screening service that further speeds up the security experience.

Concourse B Features

Concourse B is well-equipped with amenities to cater to travelers’ needs:

1. Dining Options: Concourse B offers a variety of dining establishments, ranging from quick-service eateries to sit-down restaurants. Popular options include Potbelly Sandwich Works, Garrett Popcorn Shops, and Reilly’s Daughter Pub. Many of these outlets cater to passengers looking for a quick bite before their flight.

2. Retail and Shopping: Travelers can find several retail shops offering travel essentials, souvenirs, and reading materials. Hudson News and Chicago-themed gift shops are among the popular choices.

3. Lounges and Seating: Although Southwest does not operate an exclusive lounge at MDW, the concourse provides ample seating with charging stations. The terminal’s layout ensures that passengers have plenty of space to relax and prepare for their flights.

4. Family and Accessibility Services: The concourse includes family restrooms, nursing rooms, and ADA-compliant facilities to accommodate passengers with special needs. Additionally, Southwest staff are readily available to assist travelers requiring extra support.

Boarding Process

Southwest Airlines’ unique open seating policy applies to all flights departing from MDW. Passengers are assigned a boarding group (A, B, or C) and a position number based on the time they check in, either online or at the airport. Boarding proceeds in sequential order, allowing passengers to choose their seats once onboard. Travelers are encouraged to check in as early as possible—starting 24 hours before departure—to secure a favorable boarding position.

Baggage Claim and Ground Transportation

Upon arrival at MDW, Southwest passengers can retrieve their checked luggage at the baggage claim area on the lower level of the terminal. The carousels are clearly marked, and Southwest staff are available to assist with any baggage-related inquiries.

MDW offers a variety of ground transportation options, including taxis, rideshare services, rental cars, and public transit. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Orange Line connects Midway to downtown Chicago, providing an affordable and efficient transportation option for travelers.

Tips for Southwest Travelers at MDW

1. Early Check-In: Use the Southwest mobile app or website to check in 24 hours before departure to improve your boarding position.

2. Pack Smart: Southwest offers two free checked bags per passenger, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with luggage. Be sure to adhere to size and weight restrictions to avoid additional fees.

3. Plan Your Dining: If you have extra time before your flight, explore Concourse B’s dining options for a taste of Chicago’s iconic cuisine.

4. Stay Connected: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal to stay connected while waiting for your flight.

5. Arrive Early: While MDW is smaller than O’Hare, arriving early ensures a stress-free experience, especially during peak travel times.

Conclusion

Southwest Airlines’ operations at Chicago Midway International Airport prioritize efficiency, convenience, and customer satisfaction. With its central location, accessible layout, and traveler-friendly amenities, MDW serves as an excellent gateway for Southwest passengers traveling to and from Chicago. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or a first-time traveler, following these tips and insights will help you make the most of your journey through Midway.