Roberta Aguirre
Chicago Midway International Airport (IATA: MDW, ICAO: KMDW, FAA LID: MDW) is a major commercial airport on the southwest side of Chicago, Illinois, located approximately 12 miles (19 km) from the city's Loop business district. Midway Airport is divided between the city's Clearing and Garfield Ridge communities. The airport was originally named Chicago Air Park and was built on a 320-acre plot in 1923 with one cinder runway mainly for airmail flights.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Name | Chicago Midway International Airport |
| Location | Southwest side of Chicago, Illinois |
| Distance from the city's Loop business district | 12 miles (19 km) |
| Neighborhood | Divided between Clearing and Garfield Ridge communities |
| Population of Garfield Ridge in 2017 | 36,396 |
| Year of establishment | 1927 |
| Year of renaming to Midway Airport | 1942 |
| Area | 650 acres or 260 hectares |
| Number of runways | 4 |
| Number of aircraft gates | 43 |
| Number of concourses | 3 |
| Number of gates in Concourse A | 17 |
| Number of gates in Concourse B | 23 |
| Number of gates in Concourse C | 3 |
| Public transport | Orange Line "L" and multiple bus routes |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Chicago Midway International Airport's history
Chicago Midway International Airport is located in the Garfield Ridge neighbourhood, on the southwest side of Chicago, Illinois. The airport is approximately 12 miles (19 km) from the city's Loop business district.
The airport was established in 1927, originally named Chicago Air Park, and served as Chicago's primary airport until 1944 when O'Hare International Airport opened. The Garfield Ridge area, first settled because of its proximity to the Des Plaines River and the Chicago canal, experienced a population boom in the 1920s due to the airport's construction. The airport was initially built on a 320-acre plot in 1923 with a single cinder runway, mainly catering to airmail flights. By 1928, Chicago Municipal Airport, as it was named in 1927, had expanded to twelve hangars and four runways, with night operations capabilities.
In 1930, a major fire destroyed two hangars and 27 aircraft, causing over two million dollars in damage. Despite this setback, the airport continued to grow, and in 1942, it was renamed Midway Airport, in honour of the Battle of Midway. The opening of O'Hare International Airport in 1944 reduced Midway's prominence, leading to a decline in jobs and population in the surrounding area. This transition saw a shift in the demographic composition of the Garfield Ridge community, with a significant increase in the number of Hispanic residents.
In 2001, Midway Airport completed a terminal redevelopment project, adding 14 gates and improving transit connections to Downtown Chicago. The airport is a major base for Southwest Airlines, which carries over 90% of the airport's passengers. Serving over 22 million passengers in 2023, Midway remains one of the busiest airports in the nation and the second busiest in the Chicago metropolitan area.
Newark Airport Train: Efficient Travel Option?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Garfield Ridge, Chicago
Midway Airport is located in the Garfield Ridge neighbourhood of Chicago. This area was first settled because of its proximity to the Des Plaines River and the Chicago canal. The neighbourhood is named for Garfield Boulevard and a nearby glacial ridge, formed by the glacial retreat of Lake Michigan. The area was first known as Archer Limits and was primarily used as a thoroughfare rather than a place of residence.
The population of Garfield Ridge first saw a major expansion in the 1920s, surging from 2,472 to 6,050. This was fuelled by the immigration of Eastern Europeans, particularly Poles. By 1930, 29.5% of the population was foreign-born, and another 55.1% had at least one foreign parent. This was encouraged by the development of industry, the addition of a streetcar line on Archer Avenue, and the construction of the Chicago Municipal Airport (renamed Midway Airport in 1942) in 1926.
The area's population peaked at 42,998 in 1970. However, the decline in the use of Midway Airport in favour of O'Hare International Airport led to a corresponding decline in the population. The population transitioned from being predominantly Eastern European to having a substantial number of Hispanic people. By 2017, Hispanics comprised almost half of the area's residents. As of 2017, the area had 36,396 inhabitants, though another source states 35,352.
Garfield Ridge is one of 77 community areas in Chicago and is located 10 miles (16 km) from the Loop, on the city's far southwest side. The area is home to several parks and greenspaces, as well as a popular local movie theatre. There is also a good selection of neighbourhood bars, mostly located on Archer Avenue.
Wyoming's Largest Airport: A Comprehensive Overview
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Midway (1976) [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81XZrO9d-hL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Population decline in the 1970s
Midway Airport is located in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood of Chicago. The area's population surged during the 1920s after the construction of Midway Airport, previously known as Chicago Municipal Airport. However, in the 1970s, the neighborhood experienced a population decline due to several factors.
The population decline in the 1970s in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood can be attributed to a shift in air traffic from Midway Airport to O'Hare International Airport. The introduction of passenger jetliners, which required more space to operate, favored the larger and more modern O'Hare airport. This shift resulted in a decline in jobs and population in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood. The area transitioned from a predominantly Eastern European population to having a significant number of Hispanic residents.
During the 1970s, Midway Airport faced a decline in flight operations, ranking 97th nationally. The airport experienced cutbacks, and several airlines suspended operations or considered moving elsewhere. The energy crisis at the time further exacerbated the situation, with fuel allocations impacting flight operations. Additionally, O'Hare's proximity to major expressways and its accessibility to three states made it a more attractive option for businesses and travelers, drawing industry and population away from Midway and its surrounding areas.
The population decline in Garfield Ridge was also influenced by racial tensions in the community. With the trial of corrupt police officer Michael D'Andrea, a racial dynamic emerged, causing a shift in the demographic composition of the neighborhood. Whites moved out, while blacks and Hispanics from nearby neighborhoods, such as Little Village and Pilsen, moved in.
By 1970, the population of Garfield Ridge peaked at 42,998, after which it began to decline. The neighborhood's population continued to evolve, and by the 2000 Census, 77.3% of the area's population was white, 12.3% was black, and 16.5% was Hispanic. The decline in population and shift in demographics in the 1970s were significant factors that shaped the character and composition of the Garfield Ridge neighborhood in Chicago.
Exploring Kyrat Airport: Activities and Attractions
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Midway (La Batalla De Midway) [NTSC/REGION 1 & 4 DVD. Import-Latin America]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81bZqB37XnL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Midway (1976) [ Blu-Ray, Reg.A/B/C Import - Spain ]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71gu7JuBeeL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Midway (Limited Edition) [Blu-ray] [2021]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81IjYBjSvOS._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Airport shuttle service
Midway Airport, also known as Chicago Midway Airport, is located in the Garfield Ridge neighbourhood of Chicago. The area first experienced a population boom in the 1920s, largely due to the construction of the airport, then known as Chicago Municipal Airport, in 1926. The population of the area surged again in the 1940s and 1950s, with the construction of single-story bungalows in the western part of the neighbourhood.
Today, travellers can choose from a variety of shuttle services to and from Midway Airport. GO Airport Express offers shared ride airport shuttle services and private airport transportation to Chicago Midway. Similarly, Prime Time Shuttle provides a range of options, including shared rides, private cars, and luxury vehicles. They also offer a 9-passenger van service for large groups of travellers. These shuttle services can be booked online or via a mobile app, providing travellers with a seamless and convenient way to get to and from the airport.
In addition to shuttle services, travellers can also take public transportation to and from Midway Airport. The 'L' train provides easy access to the airport and is a convenient option for commuters. For those looking for a more relaxed mode of transportation, there are also neighbourhood bars located mostly on Archer Avenue, which is also popular for outdoor activities due to its proximity to the Des Plaines River and the Chicago canal.
When visiting the area, it is worth noting that the neighbourhood has experienced a decline in jobs and population due to a decrease in airport traffic. This has resulted in racial tension dynamics, with a shift in demographics from predominantly white to a substantial increase in the Hispanic population. Despite these changes, the Garfield Ridge neighbourhood remains a unique and diverse community in Chicago, offering convenient access to the airport and a range of local amenities.
Airports and Singles: How Many for 750ml?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
![Midway [VHS]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/5166P0YHZ6L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![Midway [DVD] [1976] [Region 1] [US Import] [NTSC]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/511gduI3w+L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![The Battle of Midway [VHS]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/A1Jx-TS2QfL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![The Battle Of Midway [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/91UbVUTzIpL._AC_UY218_.jpg)
![The Battle Of Midway [Blu-ray]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81+SgXngb4L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
Local nightlife
Midway Airport is located in the Garfield Ridge neighbourhood of Chicago. While the area is not known for its nightlife, there are a few notable spots for those seeking an evening out.
Mr C's Midway Bar Inc
A popular dive bar with patrons, Mr C's Midway Bar is located near Midway hotels, making it a convenient spot for visitors to the area. The bar is praised for its atmosphere and friendly staff. It is described as a "great time" and a place with "loads of local pride".
Local Bars on Archer Avenue
For those seeking a more low-key evening, there are several neighbourhood bars located on Archer Avenue. These bars cater to short-term visitors staying near Midway Airport and offer a selection of drinks and food.
USO Lounge
The USO Lounge, located within Midway Airport, is praised for its hospitality and cosy atmosphere. It is a good option for those with long layovers or seeking a late-night drink and some food. The lounge has two bars, a pool table, darts, and a large dance floor.
Coaches Sports Bar
Located in the Holiday Inn at 6624 S. Cicero Ave, Coaches Sports Bar is a great spot to catch a game and enjoy a meal. The bar is known for its friendly service and offers a range of drinks and food, including their popular Chipotle burger.
In addition to these options, the Garfield Ridge neighbourhood also offers a popular local movie theatre for a quiet night out, as well as several parks and greenspaces for outdoor enthusiasts.
Transit Visa Requirements: How Many Airports Need Them?
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Midway Airport is in the Garfield Ridge neighborhood of Chicago.
Originally named Chicago Air Park, Midway Airport was built on a 320-acre plot in 1923 with one cinder runway mainly for airmail flights. In 1926, the city leased the airport and on December 12, 1927, named it Chicago Municipal Airport.
Yes, the Chicago Transit Authority operates the Orange Line and multiple bus routes to the airport.
There are plenty of neighborhood bars on Archer Ave, and a popular local movie theater for a quieter night. There are also several parks in the area, including LeClaire Courts, which was the first integrated low-rise housing project in Chicago.
Midway Airport is a base for Southwest Airlines, which carries over 90% of the airport's passengers. The defunct Midway Airlines was also headquartered here and took its name from the airport.
![National Geographic Road Atlas 2026: Adventure Edition [United States, Canada, Mexico]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81rRihqWqgL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
![National Geographic Road Atlas 2026: Scenic Drives Edition [United States, Canada, Mexico]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/814R4OsGtCL._AC_UL320_.jpg)
