Chicago, IL CHI to San Francisco, CA SFO flight with American Airlines

Wed, Mar 04
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American Airlines
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Journey information

Overview: Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA flight

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Icon of flight

Flights from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA depart on average 61 times per day, taking around 5h 11m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $80 (€65) if you book in advance.

There are 10 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:08, the last at 23:58. The fastest flight covers the 1853 miles (2983 km) distance in 4h 46m. May 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
Distance
1853 miles (2983 km)
Average flight duration
5h 11m
Cheapest ticket price
$80 (€65)
Flights per day
61
Direct flights
10
Fastest flight
4h 46m
Cheapest month
May
First flight
00:08
Last flight
23:58
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

The cheapest and fastest flights from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA

Showing times and prices for Mar 04

Cheapest price

$255

Average price

$952

Fastest journey

4 h 55 m

Average duration

4 h 57 m

Flights per day

80

Distance

2983 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA will cost around $952 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $255.

Fast flights

Of the 80 flights that leave Chicago, IL for San Francisco, CA onWed, Mar 04, 13 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Mar 04 the direct flights cover the 2983 km distance in an average of 4 h 57 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 55 m .

On Wed, Mar 04 the longest flights will take 4 h 59 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.

Frontier AirlinesF91596 · F91949
11:51AM11h48
O'Hare International Airport
09:39PMSan Francisco International Airport
$2551One-way
1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS587 · AS454 · AS2375
07:00AM13h03
O'Hare International Airport
06:03PMSan Francisco International Airport
$5171One-way
2 transfers
Alaska AirlinesAS587 · AS2144 · AS2375
07:00AM13h03
O'Hare International Airport
06:03PMSan Francisco International Airport
$5621One-way
2 transfers
Alaska AirlinesAS1470 · AS2173
08:20AM7h54
O'Hare International Airport
02:14PMSan Francisco International Airport
$5981One-way
1 transfer
Alaska AirlinesAS587 · AS655
07:00AM9h02
O'Hare International Airport
02:02PMSan Francisco International Airport
$5981One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $80. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $80, and a bus costs an average of $202.

Distance: 1853 miles (2983 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus

$347

Average price

Cheapest

$425

Average price

$474

Average price

8h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 11m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

54h 27m

Average total duration

53h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

52h 36m

Average total duration

52h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8.9 - 17.9kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.0 - 7.5kg

CO2 emissions

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA flight times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA flights for today, Tuesday, March 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 9:27 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA3707 · UA52829:46 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h01
5:47 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS407 · AS5909:54 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h01
5:55 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS407 · AS7259:54 PM O'Hare International Airport
20h43
6:37 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA576 · UA541410:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h45
5:45 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2649 · UA122410:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h33
5:38 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2850 · UA261510:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h35
5:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA133410:20 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h59
3:19 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
alaska_airlinesAS409 · AS72511:29 PM O'Hare International Airport
19h08
6:37 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2494 · UA212311:50 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h27
7:17 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
Wednesday, March 4
unitedUA217912:17 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h03
5:20 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA21131:42 AM O'Hare International Airport
4h58
6:40 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA13182:20 AM O'Hare International Airport
5h04
7:24 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA7102:48 AM O'Hare International Airport
4h59
7:47 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA48312:25 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h02
5:27 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA71212:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h55
5:40 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS3043 · AS13931:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h47
3:47 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS466 · AS13931:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h47
3:47 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS454 · AS23751:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h03
2:03 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS1452 · AS13931:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
14h47
3:47 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS6551:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h02
10:02 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS5901:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
16h55
5:55 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS5281:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
17h56
6:56 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS6801:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h48
11:48 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS2144 · AS23751:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h03
2:03 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS13851:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h07
2:07 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS692 · AS33511:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h51
2:51 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS1357 · AS33931:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
12h46
1:46 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS505 · AS21491:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h29
11:29 PM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS647 · AS33511:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h51
2:51 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS587 · AS466 · AS2361:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h44
12:44 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA2361 · UA17911:10 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h50
8:00 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS21732:20 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h54
10:14 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS24662:20 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h16
12:36 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS1402 · AS13932:20 PM O'Hare International Airport
13h27
3:47 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS33762:20 PM O'Hare International Airport
17h39
7:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1470 · AS32642:20 PM O'Hare International Airport
16h27
6:47 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA466 · UA19722:59 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h15
11:14 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2395 · UA14823:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h50
10:50 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA530 · UA26923:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h59
10:59 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA14983:01 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h04
8:05 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1061 · UA2613:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h40
1:45 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1994 · UA7763:10 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h24
11:34 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5928 · UA53123:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h35
10:50 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA3588 · UA46283:18 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h58
11:16 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5833 · UA55833:20 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h55
11:15 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1933 · UA17993:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h55
11:25 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA215 · UA20474:39 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h04
1:43 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA215 · UA17994:39 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h46
11:25 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA211 · UA2614:55 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h50
1:45 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA3435:05 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h02
10:07 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
american_airlinesAA22575:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h57
10:12 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2164 · UA14585:19 PM O'Hare International Airport
8h19
1:38 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
frontier_airlinesF91596 · F919495:51 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h48
5:39 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA467 · UA5526:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h25
4:10 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA622 · UA2926:45 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h21
4:06 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA10976:46 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h05
11:51 PM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2616 · UA26336:50 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h55
1:45 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2138 · UA57326:55 PM O'Hare International Airport
6h55
1:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA4494 · UA59077:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h19
4:19 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA29697:57 PM O'Hare International Airport
4h57
12:54 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA204 · UA11848:00 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h50
5:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS14808:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h37
7:44 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS667 · AS32648:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h40
6:47 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS667 · AS33768:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
11h52
7:59 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS2241 · AS5288:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h49
6:56 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS2241 · AS5908:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h48
5:55 AM San Francisco International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS13938:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h40
3:47 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS325 · AS5268:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
21h01
5:08 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2298 · UA5528:15 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h55
4:10 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA356 · UA16658:25 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h25
5:50 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1349 · UA11298:30 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h29
6:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA4516 · UA59078:33 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h46
4:19 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA374 · UA11688:33 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h37
4:10 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA15778:35 PM O'Hare International Airport
5h05
1:40 AM San Francisco International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2347 · UA98:40 PM O'Hare International Airport
7h15
3:55 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS33769:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
10h52
7:59 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS22359:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
20h52
5:59 PM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1447 · AS32649:07 PM O'Hare International Airport
9h40
6:47 AM San Francisco International Airport1 transfer

This is the last flight of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA by bus, train, or flight

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Why should you book Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA flights with Omio?

American Airlines as well as Frontier Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United and more offer flights services from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.

Why book with Omio vs American Airlines?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for American Airlines, but also compare tickets for the likes of Frontier Airlines, Alaska Airlines or United to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare American Airlines with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.

Why book with Omio over Trip, Edreams or Skyscanner?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Frontier Airlines, Alaska Airlines or United to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA.

Airlines: American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CAFind the best flights between Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with Omio's travel partners American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Alaska 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, established in 1926, is a major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. Operating an extensive domestic and international network, United serves more destinations than any other airline, connecting travelers across six continents. The airline's eight hubs include Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco, Washington–Dulles, and Guam. As a founding member of the Star Alliance, United offers a comprehensive range of services, including regional flights through United Express, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The airline is committed to sustainability, investing in sustainable aviation fuel and innovative technologies to reduce its environmental impact.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 50m
Cheapest Price
$470 (€382)
United frequency
39 a day
Luggage included
Carry-on baggage allowance is 7kg total (2 pieces max. ) for both Choice and Flex fares on United Airlines and Virgin Australia flights.
Additional luggage
Excess baggage fees apply for additional checked luggage beyond the standard allowance.
Luggage storage
Both airlines provide checked baggage services for storing luggage during flights.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation fees apply per person, per booking, with specific fees for different fare types.
Refund
Not applicable to flights; however, full refunds are available if flights are canceled by the airline.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant passengers are permitted to travel, with specific guidelines and medical certificates required after a certain gestational period.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors are permitted to travel, with specific age restrictions and services provided.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Meals and snacks are included on international flights operated by United Airlines and Virgin Australia.
Seat reservation
Seat selection may incur additional fees, depending on the fare type and airline.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
United Airlines and Virgin Australia offer services to and within Australia, providing accessible travel options for passengers with mobility needs.
Bikes
Both airlines permit bicycles onboard, with specific guidelines and fees.
Pets
United Airlines and Virgin Australia allow pets onboard, subject to specific policies and fees.

American Airlines

About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 46m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€107)
American Airlines frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.

Alaska Airlines

About
Alaska Airlines, headquartered in SeaTac, Washington, is a major U.S. airline and the fifth-largest in North America by scheduled passengers carried as of 2024. Along with its regional partners, Horizon Air and SkyWest Airlines, Alaska Airlines operates a route network primarily connecting cities along the West Coast of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii, to over 100 destinations in the contiguous U.S., the Bahamas, Belize, Canada, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Mexico. The airline is a member of the Oneworld alliance, offering passengers access to a broad global network. Alaska Airlines is known for its customer service and loyalty program, Mileage Plan, and offers First Class, Premium Class, and Main Cabin seating options. The airline's primary hub is Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. In 2024, its parent company, Alaska Air Group, acquired Hawaiian Airlines.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 24m
Cheapest Price
$329 (€267)
Alaska Airlines frequency
34 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9) and 1 personal item included
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees start at $30 for first bag, $40 for second bag
Cancellation Policy
Saver fares are non-refundable. Main and First Class fares are refundable with fee, depending on fare type and elite status
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks pregnant. After 28 weeks, medical certificate required
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children ages 5-17. Service fee is $50 per direction on nonstop flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Alaska Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities, including meet-and-assist services and accessible seating
Pets
Pets allowed in cabin and cargo hold. Service animals welcome. Fees apply for pets in cabin ($100)

Frontier Airlines

About
Frontier Airlines is a major American ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Denver, Colorado, operating flights to over 120 destinations across the United States, Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. Known for its "Low Fares Done Right" philosophy, Frontier focuses on offering affordable travel by allowing passengers to choose and pay only for the services they need, such as seat selection or baggage. The airline is also recognized for its commitment to fuel efficiency, claiming to be "America's greenest airline" due to its modern, lightweight aircraft and operational practices. A distinctive feature of Frontier is the animal featured on the tail of each aircraft, highlighting North American wildlife.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 47m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€65)
Frontier Airlines frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included
Additional luggage
Checked bag fees start at $79 per bag
Cancellation Policy
Non-refundable tickets, changes permitted for fee starting at $79 plus fare difference
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can travel up to 7 days before due date, medical certificate required after 36 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone for $100 fee each way, must be nonstop flight only
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Accessibility
Frontier Airlines offers assistance for passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair service and boarding assistance. Passengers are encouraged to request these services in advance to ensure availability and proper arrangements.

FAQs: Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA Flight

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA 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 San Francisco, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA can start from as little as $80 (€65) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is $347 (€281) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is 4h 46m to travel the 1853 miles (2983 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 12:08 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there are 10 direct flights a day from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA with American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct flights.
When taking a flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA, you can count on American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Alaska Airlines, United for the best way to get you to San Francisco, CA. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA generally leave from O'Hare International Airport and arrive in San Francisco International Airport.O'Hare International Airport is 1 miles (3 km) away from Chicago, IL city centre and San Francisco International Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from San Francisco, CA city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Francisco, CA are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 2 h between Chicago, IL and San Francisco, CA all year round.
The best events to attend in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Fleet Week, a maritime celebration featuring the Blue Angels and naval ship tours
  • Outside Lands, a major music festival showcasing top artists and local food
  • Chinese New Year Parade, the largest Lunar New Year celebration outside Asia with colorful floats and performances
  • Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, a free music festival in Golden Gate Park featuring a diverse lineup of bluegrass and folk artists.
The best holidays to experience in San Francisco, CA include:
  • Thanksgiving, mild weather and a festive atmosphere with family gatherings
  • Christmas, beautiful decorations and holiday spirit throughout the city
  • Memorial Day, the start of summer with outdoor activities and parades
  • Labor Day, a long weekend perfect for enjoying the city's parks and beaches.
The best season to visit San Francisco, CA is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore San Francisco, CA is during April-June or September-November.
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.
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 San Francisco, CA

Chicago
San Francisco
The major airport for departures in Chicago is O'Hare International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at O'Hare International Airport for your trip from Chicago to San Francisco.
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
carConnection
Car connection
I-190, Exit 1
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops are located in all terminals, including duty-free and brands like Hudson and MAC Cosmetics.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available with options including hourly, daily, and economy lots, approximately 2.85€ ($3) per hour.
Dining
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
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, toilets
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
Hotel
  • Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby.
Shower
Shower
  • Showers are available in some lounges, such as the United Club, but access may require a fee or membership.
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including United Club and American Airlines Admirals Club.
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Lost and Found located in terminal 1, near the baggage claim area.
Car Rental
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

Most popular flights to and from San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL

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