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Journey information
Overview: Chicago, IL to Ames, IA flight
USAUSA
Flights from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA depart on average 28 times per day, taking around 1h 29m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $182 (€149) but you can travel from only $80 (€65) by bus.
There are 4 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:15, the last at 22:40. The fastest flight covers the 306 miles (494 km) distance in 1h 17m. November is the cheapest month to fly.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $80 (€65)
Distance 306 miles (494 km) |
Average flight duration 1h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $182 (€149) |
Flights per day 28 |
Direct flights 4 |
Fastest flight 1h 17m |
Cheapest month to travel November |
First flight 00:15 |
Last flight 22:40 |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $80 (€65)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA
Showing times and prices for Nov 05
Cheapest price
$230
Average price
$264
Fastest journey
1 h 17 m
Average duration
1 h 22 m
Flights per day
2
Distance
494 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA will cost around $264 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $230.
Fast flights
Of the 2 flights that leave Chicago, IL for Ames, IA onWed, Nov 05, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Nov 05 the direct flights cover the 494 km distance in an average of 1 h 22 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 1 h 17 m .
On Wed, Nov 05 the longest flights will take 1 h 26 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
08:18PM1h17
Chicago, IL09:35PMAmes, IA
$2301One-way
0 transfers
11:55PM1h26
Chicago, IL01:21AMAmes, IA
$2981One-way
0 transfers
08:18PM1h17
Chicago, IL09:35PMAmes, IA
$2301One-way
0 transfers
11:55PM1h26
Chicago, IL01:21AMAmes, IA
$2981One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Chicago, IL to Ames, IA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €65. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 29m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €65, and a flight costs an average of €149.
Distance: 306 miles (494 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus |
|---|---|
€228 Average price | €65 Average price Cheapest |
4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 13h 15m Average total duration 12h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Ames, IA flight times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Ames, IA flights for today, Tuesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at 5:56 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:03 PM Chicago, IL | 1h18 | 9:21 PM Ames, IA | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Ames, IA by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Wed
Nov 05
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Airlines: Republic Airlines, United from Chicago, IL to Ames, IAFind the best flights between Chicago, IL to Ames, IA with Omio's travel partners Republic Airlines, United from $80 (€65). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
United
About
United Airlines is one of the USA’s leading carriers, operating both domestic and international routes. For your next trip, you can choose from Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class fares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 31m
Cheapest Price
$270 (€221)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (9 x 14 x 22 inches) and one personal item (9 x 10 x 17 inches)
Additional luggage
Checked baggage fees vary by route and fare class. Most economy tickets allow purchase of up to 2 checked bags
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets are non-refundable, other fares allow changes/cancellations with fee depending on fare type and elite status
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly through the end of their 36th week for single pregnancies, 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 4 weeks of flight
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel as unaccompanied minors with mandatory service. Ages 15-17 optional service available
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
United provides assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and support for passengers with visual or hearing impairments
Pets
Small dogs and cats in cabin, service animals allowed. Pets must be in approved carriers and booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Republic Airlines
About
Republic Airways is a major regional airline in the United States, operating as a subsidiary of Republic Airways Holdings. It provides scheduled passenger service for American Airlines (as American Eagle), Delta Air Lines (as Delta Connection), and United Airlines (as United Express) using a fleet of Embraer 170 and 175 regional jets. Headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana, Republic Airways operates over 900 daily flights to more than 80 cities across the U.S. and Canada. The company is known for its large fleet of Embraer E-Jets and its state-of-the-art training facilities. In April 2025, Republic Airways Holdings announced its acquisition of Mesa Air Group, which is expected to create the second-largest regional carrier in the U.S.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 27m
Cheapest Price
$251 (€205)
Republic Airlines frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag (24 x 16 x 10) and one personal item
Additional luggage
Checked bags for a fee
Cancellation Policy
Tickets are non-refundable but may be cancelled for future flight credit minus applicable fees
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to the end of their 36th week for single pregnancies and the end of their 32nd week for multiple pregnancies
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service is available for children ages 5-14. Must be booked directly with Republic Airlines
Amenities on board the airplane
USB plugs
Accessibility
Republic Airlines offers assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair services and priority boarding. Passengers are advised to request these services in advance to ensure availability and proper arrangements.
FAQs: Chicago, IL to Ames, IA Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Ames, IA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA can start from as little as $160 (€131) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chicago, IL to Ames, IA is $271 (€221); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Chicago, IL to Ames, IA flight travel time is 1 h 19 min for the 306 mile (494 km) long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA leaves at 5: 00AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA leaves at 9: 04PM.
There are 16 flights a day from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA which require at least one change with Republic Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
For the best Chicago, IL to Ames, IA flight to purchase, you can travel safely and comfortably with Republic Airlines. However, it's always good to check all possible airlines with services from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month for a flight from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA is January.
Yes, you can take a flight between Chicago, IL and Ames, IA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Ames, IA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of USA and USA. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e. G. 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs).
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you.
Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
popular airports
Popular airports from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA
Chicago
Ames
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
3 km
Car connection
I-190, Exit 1Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are located in all terminals, including duty-free and brands like Hudson and MAC Cosmetics.
Parking
- Parking available with options including hourly, daily, and economy lots, approximately 2.85€ ($3) per hour.
Dining
- Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, toilets
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby.
Shower
- Showers are available in some lounges, such as the United Club, but access may require a fee or membership.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.
Car Rental
- Car rental services are available at the Multi-Modal Facility, with companies like Hertz and Avis.
Public transit options for O'Hare International Airport
- CTA Blue Line, O'Hare Station, 45 minutes to city center
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Ames, IA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Ames, IA and Chicago, IL
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