Distance

about 800 mi

Typical flight time

1 h 45 min – 2 h 45 min

Airports

2 × 2

Time difference

None

This page covers the practical side of flying between Chicago and Dallas: which airports to compare, how long the trip takes, and when it is busy. It works for either direction. For a price on your dates, ask a specialist.

Quick answer: Chicago to Dallas is about 800 miles (1,290 km) and a typical flight takes 1 h 45 min to 2 h 45 min. There is no time difference. Chicago has 2 airports to compare and Dallas has 2.

Airport pairs to compare

Chicago has two main airports: O'Hare handles hub and long-haul traffic, while Midway is smaller and closer to the city center. The Dallas-Fort Worth area has two major airports: DFW sits between the two cities, and Love Field is much closer to downtown Dallas.

About the airports

• ORD · O'Hare International
  A major hub for connecting traffic and long-haul flights, with a direct train to downtown.
• MDW · Midway International
  Closer to downtown and served by its own train line, with a focus on shorter domestic routes.
• DFW · Dallas/Fort Worth International
  A very large hub located between the two cities, with a rail link on the DART network.
• DAL · Dallas Love Field
  Closer to downtown Dallas and generally quicker to move through.

Airlines with a major base at either end

• At Chicago: United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
• At Dallas: American Airlines, Southwest Airlines

American Airlines and Southwest Airlines have a base at both ends, which can make nonstop service more likely. Schedules change, so a specialist confirms what actually operates on your dates.

When to go and what to expect

Chicago

Late spring through early fall is the most pleasant stretch. Winter brings snow and cold that can cause delays.

Dallas

Spring and fall are the most comfortable. Spring can bring severe storms, and summer heat is intense.

How long is Chicago to Dallas?

At about 800 miles, Chicago to Dallas is a short-to-medium flight. Fares on routes this length are sensitive to the day of the week and the time of day, so check a few departure times before you settle.

Getting between the airport and town

Chicago: CTA trains run from both airports to the city center, which is usually the most predictable option at busy times.

Dallas: DART rail serves DFW. Between Love Field and downtown, a short taxi or ride-hail trip is the simplest option.

Planning ground transport too? See our car rental guide.

Good to know

• Check every airport pairing when you compare fares. Schedules and airline options can differ between them.
• Winter weather is the main source of disruption. Build in extra buffer for connections between November and March.
• Check both airports when you compare fares. Schedules and airline options can differ between them.
• Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.

Flying Dallas to Chicago?

This route guide works in both directions. For other trips, see all flights from Chicago or all flights from Dallas.

Frequently asked questions

How far is Chicago from Dallas?

The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 800 miles (1,290 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.

How long is a flight from Chicago to Dallas?

A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 1 h 45 min to 2 h 45 min in the air, depending on winds, the aircraft and the airports. Connecting itineraries take longer, and nonstop availability depends on the airline and dates.

Which airports can I use?

At Chicago: ORD (O'Hare International), MDW (Midway International). At Dallas: DFW (Dallas/Fort Worth International), DAL (Dallas Love Field). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.

Is there a time difference?

There is no time difference.

When is the best time to fly from Chicago to Dallas?

In Chicago: Late spring through early fall is the most pleasant stretch. Winter brings snow and cold that can cause delays. In Dallas: Spring and fall are the most comfortable. Spring can bring severe storms, and summer heat is intense. Fares are usually highest in the busy periods described for each city, so flexible dates can help.

Which airlines should I compare for Chicago to Dallas?

Airlines with a major base at either end include United Airlines, American Airlines and Southwest Airlines. A specialist compares them with other carriers on your dates, since schedules and availability change.

Do you show fares on this page?

No. Fares change constantly, so we do not publish prices that might be out of date. A specialist checks live availability and confirms the full total, including taxes and bags, before you pay.

Route details updated October 18, 2026.

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