Route guide
Cheap Flights from Chicago to New Orleans: Book Airline Tickets
- Distance
- about 840 mi
- Typical flight time
- 2 h – 3 h
- Airports
- 2 × 1
- Time difference
- None
This page covers the practical side of flying between Chicago and New Orleans: 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 New Orleans is about 840 miles (1,350 km) and a typical flight takes 2 h to 3 h. There is no time difference. Chicago has 2 airports to compare and New Orleans has 1.
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. New Orleans' airport lies west of the city, roughly 15 miles from the French Quarter.
| Pair | Departure airport | Arrival airport |
|---|---|---|
| ORD to MSY | O'Hare International | Louis Armstrong New Orleans International |
| MDW to MSY | Midway International | Louis Armstrong New Orleans International |
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. - MSY · Louis Armstrong New Orleans International
About 15 miles west of the French Quarter.
Airlines with a major base at either end
- At Chicago: United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
Airlines with a base at one end often connect through their hub. A specialist can compare nonstop and connecting options 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.
New Orleans
February through May and the fall are popular. Mardi Gras dates change each year, usually falling in February or March. Summers are hot, and hurricane season runs June to November.
Hurricane season runs from June through November, so check fare rules for changes if you travel in that window.
How long is Chicago to New Orleans?
At about 840 miles, Chicago to New Orleans 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.
New Orleans: Shuttles, taxis and ride-hail run between the airport and downtown.
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.
- Festivals such as Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest raise demand sharply, so book earlier if your trip overlaps with them.
- Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.
Flying New Orleans to Chicago?
This route guide works in both directions. For other trips, see all flights from Chicago or all flights from New Orleans.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Chicago from New Orleans?
The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 840 miles (1,350 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.
How long is a flight from Chicago to New Orleans?
A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 2 h to 3 h 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 New Orleans: MSY (Louis Armstrong New Orleans International). 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 New Orleans?
In Chicago: Late spring through early fall is the most pleasant stretch. Winter brings snow and cold that can cause delays. In New Orleans: February through May and the fall are popular. Mardi Gras dates change each year, usually falling in February or March. Summers are hot, and hurricane season runs June to November.Hurricane season runs from June through November, so check fare rules for changes if you travel in that window. 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 New Orleans?
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.