Chicago Midway Int’l. Airport (MDW) Security Wait Times

Passengers travelling from the Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) need to clear the security checkpoints before proceeding with boarding. On average, it takes 15 to 34 minutes to clear the security screening at MDW Airport.

However, the time may extend up to 1 hour or more, depending on several factors, such as the number of passengers, the time of day, or the season. To reduce TSA wait times, MDW offers programs such as TSA PreCheck and CLEAR. These programs allow travellers to clear the security check queues quickly.

Current Average MDW Airport Security Wait Times

Average security wait times at MDW are 15 to 20 minutes. However, during peak hours, the security check time may extend up to 35 minutes because of a congested flight schedule.

Chicago Midway Airport Security Wait Times (General)

Chicago MDW TSA Wait Times

TSA security wait times are usually 34 minutes during non-peak hours, like midday and late evening. However, during peak hours, such as early morning and late afternoon, TSA security checks may extend up to one hour because of a congested flight schedule.

*Note: These wait times are estimated and subject to change.

Midway Airport Custom Wait Times

For the passengers arriving from or departing for international destinations, the average customs wait time at Midway Chicago Airport is 60 minutes. However, this wait time can extend by one and a half hours during the peak hours. MDW encourages the passengers to enroll in the following programs to reduce the wait time:

• Automated Passport Control (AMP)
• Mobile Passport Control (MPC)
• CBP/U.S. Customs and Border Protection Program (CBP)

Contacting MDW Airport for Security Wait Time Queries

Flyers can reach the agents through a call or social media for any TSA security wait time queries.

Security Screening Programs

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus enrollment programs are available at security checkpoints at the Midway Airport Main Terminal. These programs speed up the security screening process, making one’s travelling smooth through MDW Airport.

MDW TAS PreCheck: The opening hours for TSA PreCheck are 4 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Located at concourses A, B, and C, this program is designed for frequent flyers and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) trusted travel program members. The enrolled passengers need not remove their shoes and belts during the security check. Also, the eligible flyers can keep their laptops and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their carry-on bags.

CLEAR Plus Enrollment: CLEAR+ security checkpoints are located on the Mezzanine Level, near the north security checkpoint bridge. The counter opens from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and the lanes open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. This program uses biometric authentication and advanced technology for security screening instead of showing a boarding pass or ID.

Usually, the TSA wait Times at MDW airport are less than 30 minutes. However, the number of passengers, time of day, week, and season can reduce or increase these security wait times. Therefore, it is advised to reach the airport at least 2 to 3 hours before departure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)