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Journey information
Overview: Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport flight
USAUSA
Flights from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport depart on average 41 times per day, taking around 4h 57m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $231 (€187) but you can travel from only $220 (€178) by bus.
There are 11 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 12:20, the last at 22:10. The fastest flight covers the 1856 miles (2987 km) distance in 4h 41m. April 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 $220 (€178)
Distance 1856 miles (2987 km) |
Average flight duration 4h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $231 (€187) |
Flights per day 41 |
Direct flights 11 |
Fastest flight 4h 41m |
Cheapest month to travel April |
First flight 12:20 |
Last flight 22:10 |
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 $220 (€178)
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €178. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €178, and a train costs an average of €259.
Distance: 1856 miles (2987 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€216 Average price | €277 Average price | €197 Average price Cheapest |
7h 57m Average total duration Fastest 4h 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 54h 20m Average total duration 53h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 59h 13m Average total duration 58h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Airlines: American Airlines, United from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International AirportFind the best flights between Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport with Omio's travel partners American Airlines, United from $220 (€178). 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
4h 43m
Cheapest Price
$221 (€178)
United frequency
19 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 41m
Cheapest Price
$302 (€244)
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.
FAQs: Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport 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 International Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
There are 41 flights a day from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) which require at least one change with United, Alaska Airlines or American Airlines. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
Take the Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) flight with United, Alaska Airlines or American Airlines. However, it's always good to check out all possible airlines for the trip between Chicago, IL and San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
The cheapest month for a flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) is April.
Yes, you can take a flight from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO).
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) 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.
There is a time difference of 2 h between Chicago, IL and San Francisco International Airport, CA (SFO) all year round.
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 San Francisco International Airport
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
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
The major airport for arrivals in San Francisco is San Francisco International Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Francisco International Airport for your journey to San Francisco from Chicago.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
US-101, exit 423AWifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops are located in all terminals, including DFS Duty-Free and Burberry.
Parking
- Parking available in the Domestic and International Garages, approximately 1.9€ ($2) per 15 minutes.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, toilets.
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available, including the United Club and Delta Sky Club.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall of the Domestic Terminal.
Public transit options for San Francisco International Airport
- Buses: SamTrans 292, 397, 398, KX
- Metro: BART Yellow Line
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to San Francisco International Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from San Francisco International Airport and Chicago, IL
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