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Planes from Chicago to San Francisco

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
San Francisco, United States of America

Why Choose Plane from Chicago to San Francisco

Flying from Chicago to San Francisco is a popular route that connects the vibrant midwest with the stunning west coast. Choosing the right mode of transportation is crucial for maximizing your travel experience and ensuring a smooth journey.

💰 Fast Travel Time

pros
  • A direct flight from Chicago to San Francisco takes approximately 7 hours, significantly cutting down travel time compared to buses or trains.
  • Unlike bus or train travel, which can take upwards of 20 hours, flying allows you to maximize your time in San Francisco.
cons
  • Though faster, the flight duration can feel short, giving you less time to enjoy scenic views along the route.

🛎️ Convenient Airport Locations

pros
  • Chicago O'Hare (ORD) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) are both major airports, offering a range of flight options and amenities.
  • Airports are typically closer to the city center than train or bus stations, allowing for quicker access to your destination upon arrival.
cons
  • Airport security and boarding procedures can add extra time to your travel compared to boarding a bus or train.

⭐ Comfortable Flight Amenities

pros
  • Many airlines offer in-flight amenities such as Wi-Fi, refreshments, and entertainment, providing a more comfortable experience while traveling.
  • The ability to recline in a seat and enjoy personal space during the flight can be a refreshing change from cramped bus or train environments.
cons
  • Flight prices can vary widely, ranging from €109 to €435, which may not be as budget-friendly as bus or train options.

highlights:

Flight prices can vary greatly and may not always be the most economical option compared to bus or train travel.

Overall travel time is significantly reduced, allowing for more enjoyable experiences in San Francisco.

Relatively easy access to major airports simplifies your journey.

In-flight comforts and amenities enhance the overall travel experience.

Flight Options from Chicago to San Francisco

Typecompanydeparture airportarrival airportdeparture timearrival timeFrequencyDurationPrice Rangelayover city
DirectAmerican AirlinesChicago O'Hare International Airport, ChicagoSan Francisco International Airport, San Francisco06:00, 10:30, 15:1508:05, 12:00, 17:20Daily4h 5m
$
109-435
DirectUnited AirlinesChicago O'Hare International Airport, ChicagoSan Francisco International Airport, San Francisco08:00, 12:45, 18:1010:05, 14:35, 20:20Daily4h 5m
$
150-400
ConnectingDelta AirlinesChicago O'Hare International Airport, ChicagoSan Francisco International Airport, San Francisco07:00, 09:0012:00, 14:00Daily7h 35m
$
150-350
Salt Lake City
ConnectingSouthwest AirlinesChicago Midway International Airport, ChicagoSan Francisco International Airport, San Francisco11:15, 16:3017:45, 23:00Daily8h
$
130-300
Las Vegas

Comparison of Flight Operators from Chicago to San Francisco

When traveling from Chicago to San Francisco, comparing various airlines is crucial for making informed decisions that align with your budget, comfort, and travel needs. With flight durations averaging around 7 hours and 5 minutes, the choice of airline can significantly impact the overall travel experience. It is essential to evaluate key criteria such as pricing, amenities, baggage policies, and accessibility to ensure a seamless journey.

Criteria
Price Range$ 109 - $ 435$ 150 - $ 400$ 200 - $ 500
pricing policies
refund policyNon-refundable unless cancelled within 24 hours of booking.Full refund available within 24 hours of booking, otherwise credit only.Refundable tickets available at a higher rate.
Ticket ChangesChanges allowed with a fee of $100 plus fare difference.Changes allowed with no fee, but fare difference applies.Changes permitted with a fee of $50.
discounts10% off for students and senior citizens.15% off for military personnel.Group discounts available for parties of 10 or more.
amenitiesFree in-flight entertainment, Complimentary snacks and beverages, Wi-Fi available for purchaseIn-flight Wi-Fi included, Meal service included for longer flights, Extra legroom seats availableFirst class available with enhanced services, Lounge access for premium ticket holders, Personalized in-flight entertainment system
baggage allowance
Additional Fees$50 for second checked bag.$70 for oversized baggage.No fees for additional checked bags within allowance limits.
accessibilityWheelchair assistance available; priority boarding for disabled passengers.Accessible seating and services for visually and hearing-impaired passengers.Full accessibility support, including on-board wheelchairs and assistance.

When deciding on an airline for your Chicago to San Francisco journey, consider your priorities: Airline A offers budget-friendly options with decent amenities, making it suitable for cost-conscious travelers. Airline B provides more comfort and flexibility in pricing policies, ideal for travelers who value service and convenience. Meanwhile, Airline C caters to those seeking luxury and extensive amenities but at a higher price point. Ultimately, choose based on what fits your budget and ideal travel experience.

Flight Stops and Airports from Chicago to San Francisco

Understanding the airports involved when flying from Chicago to San Francisco can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Main Flight Stops in Chicago

O'Hare International Airport

Located about 17 miles northwest of downtown Chicago, O'Hare is easily accessible and positioned near major highways.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Check-in counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage lockers
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Food and beverage options (cafés, restaurants, vending machines)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: 'L' trains (Blue Line) and multiple bus routes
  • Taxi and rideshare services availability: Uber and Lyft pickups
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles: short-term and long-term parking available
  • Recommended arrival time before departure: at least 2 hours for domestic flights
  • Security procedures to be aware of: be prepared for TSA screening, and have your boarding pass and ID ready
  • Peak hours to avoid for less crowding: early morning and late afternoon
  • Nearby amenities: several hotels and shopping centers like Fashion Outlets of Chicago

Main Flight Stops in San Francisco

San Francisco International Airport

Situated about 13 miles south of downtown San Francisco, SFO is accessible via major roadways and is close to the Bay Area.
facilities
  • Restrooms
  • Waiting areas with seating
  • Check-in counters and self-service kiosks
  • Luggage storage services
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Diverse food and beverage options (cafés, restaurants)
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Accessibility features (ramps, elevators, and visual and hearing assistance)
Transportation Links
  • Public transportation options: BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) and SamTrans bus services
  • Taxi and rideshare services availability: designated pickup areas for Uber, Lyft, and taxis
  • Parking facilities for private vehicles: short-term, long-term, and economy parking
  • Recommended arrival time before departure: at least 2 hours for domestic flights
  • Security procedures to be aware of: keep your boarding pass and ID ready for TSA inspection
  • Peak hours to avoid for less crowding: weekends and major holidays
  • Nearby amenities: numerous hotels and dining options in San Bruno and Millbrae

En Route Stops

Familiarizing yourself with the O'Hare and San Francisco International Airports can lead to a smoother travel experience. Make sure to plan ahead and enjoy your journey!

Travel Tips

  • ⛰ Arrive Early for TSA and Traffic

    Chicago's O'Hare can get quite busy, especially during peak travel times. Arriving at least 2-3 hours early will give you ample time to check in, pass through security, and navigate any potential traffic issues on the way.

  • 📍 Pack Layers for Flight Comfort

    The climate between Chicago and San Francisco can vary significantly. Dress in layers to accommodate both the cooler temperatures of Chicago and the mild, coastal climate of San Francisco once you land, as passenger cabins can fluctuate in temperature.

  • 🚍 Explore Local Flavors Onboard

    If you're flying with airlines that offer local cuisine options, such as Chicago-style deep dish pizza or California fare, take advantage of the chance to taste local flavors while in transit. It's a unique onboard experience that connects you to both cities.

  • 🎭 Consider the Time Zone Shift

    San Francisco is two hours behind Chicago. To help adjust, gradually shift your sleeping schedule before departure or use the flight time to rest so that you arrive refreshed and ready to explore the city.

  • 🏛 Stay Informed on Bay Area Events

    Keep an eye on events happening during your stay in San Francisco. Booking your flight around major conventions or festivals can lead to unique experiences but also to busier airports and transportation, so plan accordingly.

FAQ

For domestic flights within the U.S., a government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) is required to board the flight. Make sure your ID is current and not expired.
Yes, multiple airlines offer direct flights between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO), making travel convenient without layovers.
It's generally best to book your flight at least 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or when big events are taking place in San Francisco, as prices can increase significantly closer to the departure date.
Chicago is in the Central Time Zone (CST) while San Francisco is in the Pacific Time Zone (PST), which is two hours behind. Be sure to adjust your plans accordingly, especially if you have connections or activities scheduled immediately after landing.
Most airlines provide complimentary snacks and beverages on flights from Chicago to San Francisco. Some airlines may also have in-flight entertainment options. Check with your airline for specific amenities available on your flight.

Trips from Chicago