Chicago (MDW) to Orlando (MCO) is about 990 miles and typically takes 2 h 30 min by air. Airlines with hubs at both ends are the likeliest to offer nonstops; otherwise expect a connection. Call (800) 490-3234 for live fares.
MDW to MCO at a glance
| Route | Chicago (MDW) to Orlando (MCO) |
|---|---|
| Distance | about 990 miles / 1,600 km |
| Typical flight time | 2 h 30 min (estimate) |
| Time difference | 1 hours ahead |
| Route type | Domestic (U.S.) |
| Airlines with hubs here | Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways |
About the Chicago to Orlando route
Chicago to Orlando covers about 990 miles, a mid-length domestic trip that most airlines can serve nonstop or with one easy connection.
Flight time and distance
A typical flight takes about 2 h 30 min gate to gate, with a realistic range of 2 h 15 min to 3 h depending on wind, routing and aircraft. That is an estimate based on the distance of roughly 990 miles (1,600 km), not a published schedule.
Orlando is 1 hour ahead of Chicago on standard time, so the arrival time on your ticket will look different from the flight duration.
Among the 200 routes in our guides, MDW to MCO is longer than about 34% of them.
For comparison, Chicago to Denver (MDW to DEN) is about 890 miles, so Orlando is a bit farther out from MDW.
The airports
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)
Midway is smaller and closer to downtown than O'Hare, and Southwest is its largest carrier. Full MDW guide.
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Orlando International is the gateway to Walt Disney World, Universal and SeaWorld and one of the busiest leisure airports in the country. Full MCO guide.
Do not stop at MDW and MCO. Also compare around Chicago, O'Hare (ORD); and around Orlando, Tampa (TPA), because a different airport can change both the fare and your ground travel.
Airlines on this route
No single carrier we cover has hubs at both MDW and MCO. Southwest Airlines (at MDW) and JetBlue Airways (at MCO) each operate a large network at one end, so many itineraries on this route connect rather than fly nonstop.
Nonstop availability on any route can shift from one season to the next, so treat this as a guide to who is likely to serve the market, not a timetable.
Common connection points
A one-stop trip would most naturally connect through a hub such as Southwest Airlines via Nashville (BNA), which adds about 20 miles (2% beyond the direct distance) or JetBlue Airways via Fort Lauderdale (FLL), which adds about 350 miles (36% beyond the direct distance). Choose the connection with the best weather odds for your travel month and leave a comfortable layover; our layover guide explains how much time is realistic.
Best time to fly
Seasonal factors to weigh: at MCO, spring break, summer and the Christmas holidays are busiest; late January and early September are often calmer. At MDW, fewer long-haul options mean winter weather can create tighter rebooking choices than at O'Hare.
Ground transport
Getting to and from MDW
The CTA Orange Line connects Midway to the Loop in about 25 minutes.
Getting to and from MCO
Brightline's station inside the airport offers train service to South Florida, and most resorts run shuttles or accept rideshares.
Booking tips
If you are flying to Orlando for a vacation, compare the fare with bags included, since leisure travelers often check luggage. Our fare-type guide shows what low fares leave out.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the flight from Chicago to Orlando?
A typical MDW to MCO flight takes about 2 h 30 min, with a likely range of 2 h 15 min to 3 h. Actual time depends on wind, routing, aircraft and whether you connect.
How far is Orlando from Chicago by air?
The great-circle distance between MDW and MCO is about 990 miles (1,600 km).
Which airlines fly from Chicago to Orlando?
Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways have a major presence at MDW or MCO, and service varies by season. Ask us to check current nonstop and connecting options.
What is the time difference between Chicago and Orlando?
Orlando is 1 hour ahead of Chicago on standard time. Daylight saving time can change the gap for part of the year.
Are there other airports near Chicago?
Yes. Nearby alternatives include O'Hare (ORD). Comparing them can change both fare and travel time.
When is the best time to book MDW to MCO?
For leisure routes like this, book early for school holidays and peak seasons. Domestic fares are often competitive one to three months ahead, while international trips benefit from more lead time. Compare several dates, since fares are priced flight by flight.
Explore related routes
More flights involving Chicago (MDW)
More flights involving Orlando (MCO)
- Atlanta to OrlandoATL to MCO
- Baltimore to OrlandoBWI to MCO
- Chicago to OrlandoORD to MCO
- Denver to OrlandoDEN to MCO
- Kansas City to OrlandoMCI to MCO
- Nashville to OrlandoBNA to MCO
Last reviewed October 22, 2026. FlighTicketHub provides general information; confirm details with the airline before you travel.