Quick Answer
United dominates this route - SFO and ORD are both major United hubs. Southwest flies SFO-MDW (Midway) for $50 less. Flight time is 4 hours. Search this route →
Airlines Flying San Francisco to Chicago for UMs
| Airline | UM Ages | Fee (each way) | Chicago Airport |
|---|---|---|---|
| United | 5-14 | $150 | ORD (both are hubs) |
| American | 5-14 | $150 | ORD |
| Southwest | 5-11 | $100 | MDW (Midway) |
| Alaska | 5-12 | $50 | ORD |
| Spirit | 5-14 | $150 | ORD |
Chicago Has Two Airports
- O'Hare (ORD): Huge, can be overwhelming but well-staffed for UMs
- Midway (MDW): Smaller, easier to navigate, Southwest only
Best Airline for SFO-ORD UM Flights
Best Availability: United
- SFO is United's main West Coast hub
- ORD is United's biggest hub overall
- 10+ daily nonstops
- If one flight cancels, many alternatives
Best Value: Alaska
- Only $50/way UM fee
- Saves $200 round trip vs United
- Nonstop SFO-ORD service
- Great for ages 5-12
For Easier Airport: Southwest to Midway
- MDW is smaller and less chaotic than ORD
- $100/way vs $150 on United
- Good option for first-time UM travelers
Tips for This Route
- 4-hour flight: Pack entertainment and snacks
- Time zone change: Chicago is 2 hours ahead
- O'Hare is huge: Give pickup adult specific terminal info
- Weather delays: ORD has notorious winter delays - book morning flights
How to Book
- United: 1-800-864-8331
- American: 1-800-433-7300
- Southwest: 1-800-435-9792
- Alaska: 1-800-252-7522
- Spirit: 1-855-728-3555
