Distance

about 680 mi

Typical flight time

1 h 30 min – 2 h 30 min

Airports

2 × 1

Time difference

1 h ahead

This page covers the practical side of flying between Chicago and Philadelphia: 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 Philadelphia is about 680 miles (1,090 km) and a typical flight takes 1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 min. Philadelphia is 1 hour ahead of Chicago. Chicago has 2 airports to compare and Philadelphia 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. Philadelphia's airport is a hub with strong connecting traffic, and it is linked to Center City by regional rail.

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.
• PHL · Philadelphia International
  A hub airport with regional rail service to Center City.

Airlines with a major base at either end

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

American Airlines has 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.

Philadelphia

Spring and fall are the most comfortable. Summers are hot and humid, and winter storms can disrupt flights.

How long is Chicago to Philadelphia?

At about 680 miles, Chicago to Philadelphia 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.

Time zones and timing

Philadelphia is 1 hour ahead of Chicago, so you land at a local time 1 hour later than departure time plus flight time would suggest. Plan your arrival day around local time at the destination.

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.

Philadelphia: SEPTA Regional Rail runs from the airport to Center City.

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.
• Because many passengers connect here, keep extra time between flights, especially in winter.
• Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.

Flying Philadelphia to Chicago?

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

Frequently asked questions

How far is Chicago from Philadelphia?

The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 680 miles (1,090 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.

How long is a flight from Chicago to Philadelphia?

A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 1 h 30 min to 2 h 30 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 Philadelphia: PHL (Philadelphia International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.

Is there a time difference?

Philadelphia is 1 hour ahead of Chicago.

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

In Chicago: Late spring through early fall is the most pleasant stretch. Winter brings snow and cold that can cause delays. In Philadelphia: Spring and fall are the most comfortable. Summers are hot and humid, and winter storms can disrupt flights. 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 Philadelphia?

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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