5 Major Chicago Midway Airport News Updates You Need To Know Before Flying In 2025
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) is undergoing a significant transformation, with a flurry of major developments and infrastructure investments rolling out throughout 2025. As of today, December 20, 2025, travelers should be aware of critical updates concerning massive runway construction, a host of new flight routes from major carriers, and exciting new passenger amenities designed to enhance the travel experience.
The latest news paints a picture of a modernized, more efficient airport ready to handle the expected surge in passenger volume. From a multi-million dollar airfield upgrade to the introduction of a new, all-access lounge, these changes are set to redefine flying through Chicago's second-busiest hub. Understanding these developments is crucial for planning your next trip through the bustling facility.
The $47 Million Infrastructure Overhaul: Runway 13C/31C Project
The single largest infrastructure investment at Midway in 2025 is officially underway: a monumental $47 million runway overhaul. This massive project is primarily focused on the critical Runway 13C/31C and its intersecting taxiways, aiming to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the airport can meet modern aviation standards.
The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) is spearheading the initiative, which has been in the planning stages since 2022. The construction is being led by K-Five Construction Corporation and represents a significant commitment to the future of MDW. The CDA is actively seeking over $37 million in federal funding to support the scale of the work.
Key Details of the Runway Modernization
- Primary Focus: Runway 13C/31C and adjacent taxiways.
- Investment: Approximately $47 million, marking it as the largest single infrastructure project at MDW this year.
- Scope of Work: The project involves major repaving, the installation of new navigational aids, and a significant reconfiguration of the runway to create two new, more efficient taxiways.
- Goal: To improve airfield geometry, reduce potential runway incursions, and increase the airport's overall operational safety and capacity.
This construction is part of the broader Midway Modernization Program, the airport's most significant upgrade in two decades. While the work is essential, travelers should monitor the Chicago Department of Aviation website for potential, though typically minimal, delays or gate changes associated with the airfield activity. The long-term benefits of this investment, however, will be substantial, ensuring MDW remains a vital transportation hub for the Midwest.
New Routes and Airline Expansion: Southwest and Frontier Lead the Charge
2025 is proving to be a year of significant route expansion at Midway, driven primarily by its largest carrier, Southwest Airlines, and the ultra-low-cost carrier, Frontier Airlines. These new services are opening up fresh travel opportunities for Chicago residents and increasing MDW’s connectivity across the United States and internationally.
Southwest Airlines' Expanded Midwest and Nonstop Service
Southwest Airlines, which has a dominant presence at MDW, continues to bolster its network with several key additions:
- Indianapolis (IND) Service: Southwest officially launched its inaugural flight to Chicago Midway from Indianapolis International Airport in August 2025, providing a convenient new regional link.
- Wichita (ICT) Nonstop: The airline is adding new nonstop service between Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport and MDW. This move strengthens the airport's connection to the central plains.
- Milwaukee (MKE) Connection: Southwest also introduced a new twice-daily service connecting Milwaukee and Chicago (O'Hare/Midway). This short, 70-nautical-mile route aims to capture the local passenger market traveling between the two major Midwestern cities.
Frontier Airlines’ International Growth
In a major boost for leisure travelers, Frontier Airlines announced a massive network expansion, including a new international route from Midway. Frontier is launching new service from MDW to Cancun, Mexico, with an introductory fare. This addition provides a low-cost option for sun-seeking travelers, further diversifying the destinations available from Midway’s concourses.
The influx of new routes from both Southwest and Frontier is a clear indicator of the strong demand for travel through the airport. As the Chicago Department of Aviation anticipates nearly 4.8 million travelers passing through O'Hare and Midway combined during peak travel seasons, these new routes are timely.
Enhancing the Traveler Experience: Club MDW, New Concessions, and Security Updates
Beyond the airfield, the passenger experience inside the terminal is also seeing significant upgrades, focusing on comfort, amenities, and efficiency. The Midway Partnership is overseeing many of these improvements, ensuring MDW provides a modern, welcoming environment.
The Launch of Club MDW
One of the most anticipated new amenities is the introduction of Club MDW. This new airport lounge will be a major convenience for travelers, as it is designed to be available to all passengers, regardless of their airline or class of service. The availability of a dedicated, comfortable space like Club MDW addresses a long-standing need for enhanced premium amenities at the airport.
New Retail and Dining Concessions
The airport’s concessions options are expanding, offering travelers more choices for dining and last-minute shopping. Recent additions include well-known brands and local favorites, such as Johnston & Murphy and Chicago Sports Land. These new concessions are part of an ongoing effort to expand the city's airport retail landscape, offering everything from apparel to Chicago-themed merchandise.
Navigating Security and Travel Tips for MDW in 2025
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at Midway continues to advise passengers to prepare thoroughly, especially during high-volume travel periods. Key travel tips for MDW include having valid identification and a boarding pass ready before reaching the travel document checker.
A major convenience at MDW is the terminal layout. Once you are past the security checkpoint, the concourses are interconnected, meaning passengers making connections do not need to take transportation or re-clear security. This is a significant time-saver compared to larger, multi-terminal airports.
- TSA Contact: For specific security inquiries, the TSA at MDW can be reached at 773-498-1308.
- Prohibited Items: Always double-check luggage to ensure no prohibited items are present, which helps keep the screening process moving efficiently.
- Signage: Midway Airport is known for its clear signage, guiding passengers efficiently to ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and gates.
In summary, 2025 is a landmark year for Chicago Midway International Airport. The combination of essential infrastructure upgrades like the Runway 13C/31C project, the introduction of new routes by Southwest Airlines and Frontier Airlines, and the launch of passenger-focused amenities like Club MDW ensures that MDW is not only modernizing but also significantly enhancing its role as a key gateway for travel in the Midwest.
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