Route guide
Cheap Flights from Chicago to Phoenix: Book Airline Tickets
- Distance
- about 1,440 mi
- Typical flight time
- 3 h 15 min – 4 h 15 min
- Airports
- 2 × 1
- Time difference
- 1–2 h behind
This page covers the practical side of flying between Chicago and Phoenix: 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.
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. Phoenix's main airport sits unusually close to the city center, which keeps the trip into town short.
| Pair | Departure airport | Arrival airport |
|---|---|---|
| ORD to PHX | O'Hare International | Phoenix Sky Harbor International |
| MDW to PHX | Midway International | Phoenix Sky Harbor International |
Airlines with a major base at either end
- At Chicago: United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
- At Phoenix: American Airlines, Southwest Airlines
American Airlines, 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.
Phoenix
Winter and spring are the popular, milder seasons. Summer highs routinely top 100°F, which is why fares often soften then.
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.
Phoenix: The PHX Sky Train connects the terminals and the light rail, and ride-hail and rental cars are widely used.
Planning ground transport too? See our car rental guide.
Good to know
- Winter weather is the main source of disruption. Build in extra buffer for connections between November and March.
- Spring training baseball in February and March lifts demand. Arizona does not observe daylight saving time, which affects time differences with other states.
- Compare the total with bags included, not just the base fare. See baggage fees and taxes and fees.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Chicago from Phoenix?
The straight-line distance between the main airports is about 1,440 miles (2,310 km). Routes can be longer in practice because of air traffic and weather.
How long is a flight from Chicago to Phoenix?
A typical scheduled flight takes roughly 3 h 15 min to 4 h 15 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 Phoenix: PHX (Phoenix Sky Harbor International). Ask for prices on more than one pairing.
Is there a time difference?
In winter, Phoenix is 1 hour behind Chicago; in summer, Phoenix is 2 hours behind Chicago. The gap changes because of daylight saving time.
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.