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

Wed, Dec 17
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Alaska Airlines
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Frontier Airlines
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1,000+ travel companies
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Journey information

Overview: San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL flight

USAUSA
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Icon of flight

Flights from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL depart on average 43 times per day, taking around 4h 37m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $89 (€71) 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 17m. February 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
4h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$89 (€71)
Flights per day
43
Direct flights
10
Fastest flight
4h 17m
Cheapest month to travel
February
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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Dec 17

Cheapest price

$179

Average price

$261

Fastest journey

4 h 23 m

Average duration

15 h 11 m

Flights per day

3

Distance

2983 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $261 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $179.

Fast flights

Of the 3 flights that leave San Francisco, CA for Chicago, IL onWed, Dec 17, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Dec 17 the direct flights cover the 2983 km distance in an average of 15 h 11 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 23 m .

On Wed, Dec 17 the longest flights will take 1 d 1 h 48 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 Airlines
03:00PM25h48
San Francisco, CA
04:48PMChicago, IL
$1791One-way
0 transfers
Frontier Airlines
01:37PM15h22
San Francisco, CA
04:59AMChicago, IL
$2721One-way
0 transfers
American Airlines
08:11PM4h23
San Francisco, CA
12:34AMChicago, IL
$3331One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

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

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 37m. 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 €71, and a bus costs an average of €97.

Distance: 1853 miles (2983 km)

Compare flight with

Flight
Most popular
Train
Bus

€221

Average price

Cheapest

€235

Average price

€249

Average price

7h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 37m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

54h 24m

Average total duration

53h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

54h 27m

Average total duration

53h 57m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8.9 - 17.9kg

CO2 emissions

0.9 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.0 - 7.5kg

CO2 emissions

Alaska Airlines

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Greyhound

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

San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL flight times

The table below shows live departures for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL flights for today, Tuesday, December 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.

Last updated at 2:56 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
unitedUA22313:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
4h23
7:23 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
alaska_airlinesAS1308 · AS14933:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
14h50
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1308 · AS14783:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h54
1:54 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1149 · UA7983:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h14
12:14 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1358 · UA15833:16 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h22
10:38 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS68 · AS4103:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h55
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5937 · UA13983:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h10
10:45 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS68 · AS4293:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h20
10:55 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS68 · AS5703:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
14h24
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1410 · AS491 · AS5704:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
13h59
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1410 · AS1394 · AS14934:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
13h50
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1410 · AS1394 · AS14784:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h54
1:54 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1410 · AS491 · AS4104:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h30
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1410 · AS651 · AS4104:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h30
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1410 · AS651 · AS5704:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
13h59
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1410 · AS3365 · AS5704:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
13h59
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS2479 · AS685 · AS4104:09 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h21
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS2479 · AS14934:09 PM San Francisco International Airport
13h41
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS2479 · AS14784:09 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h45
1:54 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2374 · UA14004:17 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h38
10:55 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1246 · UA2744:22 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h35
10:57 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5560 · UA59044:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h39
11:04 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2492 · UA15834:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h13
10:38 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA22434:30 PM San Francisco International Airport
4h18
8:48 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1678 · UA47984:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h03
3:38 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1678 · UA21484:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h49
1:24 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1678 · UA35044:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h03
2:38 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5220 · UA12784:40 PM San Francisco International Airport
5h49
10:29 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA5375 · UA48064:43 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h18
11:01 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2437 · UA13825:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
5h59
10:59 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS656 · AS5705:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h59
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS656 · AS4105:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h30
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS656 · AS765 · AS14935:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h50
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS2493 · AS1305 · AS4105:08 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h22
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS2493 · AS1305 · AS5705:08 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h51
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS2493 · AS1309 · AS5705:08 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h51
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA1896 · UA10695:10 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h40
12:50 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS3440 · AS548 · AS4105:15 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h15
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS3440 · AS548 · AS5705:15 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h44
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS3305 · AS455 · AS5705:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h34
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS3305 · AS455 · AS4105:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h05
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS3305 · AS2109 · AS5705:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
12h34
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA5617 · UA13835:27 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h53
2:20 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS705 · AS676 · AS5706:06 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h53
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS705 · AS3028 · AS14936:06 PM San Francisco International Airport
11h44
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
unitedUA336 · UA16416:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h15
12:50 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA643 · UA13836:41 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h39
2:20 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1164 · UA24876:52 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h33
2:25 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2177 · UA17797:10 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h15
2:25 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS3008 · AS2341 · AS14937:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h15
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS235 · AS3365 · AS5707:36 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h23
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS235 · AS1312 · AS14937:36 PM San Francisco International Airport
10h14
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS580 · AS4108:22 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h08
4:30 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS580 · AS5708:22 PM San Francisco International Airport
9h37
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA450 · UA17389:00 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h43
5:43 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1333 · UA3779:01 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h58
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1333 · UA14119:01 PM San Francisco International Airport
6h07
3:08 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA22829:11 PM San Francisco International Airport
4h34
1:45 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1498 · UA2129:25 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h34
4:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA26199:30 PM San Francisco International Airport
4h14
1:44 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
alaska_airlinesAS2447 · AS2448 · AS5709:35 PM San Francisco International Airport
8h24
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport2 transfers
alaska_airlinesAS1342 · AS57010:21 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h38
5:59 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA2855 · UA78710:42 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h33
6:15 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA62610:50 PM San Francisco International Airport
4h17
3:07 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
alaska_airlinesAS3326 · AS149310:50 PM San Francisco International Airport
7h00
5:50 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1302 · AS32410:59 PM San Francisco International Airport
20h10
7:09 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
Wednesday, December 17
unitedUA176312:50 AM San Francisco International Airport
4h20
5:10 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
alaska_airlinesAS3327 · AS14462:13 AM San Francisco International Airport
17h56
8:09 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS758 · AS2652:20 AM San Francisco International Airport
18h19
8:39 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS1327 · AS2653:25 AM San Francisco International Airport
17h14
8:39 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS2490 · AS14463:47 AM San Francisco International Airport
16h22
8:09 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS2490 · AS14783:47 AM San Francisco International Airport
22h07
1:54 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA334 · UA14905:00 AM San Francisco International Airport
6h52
11:52 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA1340 · UA17755:20 AM San Francisco International Airport
10h16
3:36 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS2470 · AS14785:57 AM San Francisco International Airport
19h57
1:54 AM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS2470 · AS14465:57 AM San Francisco International Airport
14h12
8:09 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
alaska_airlinesAS2023 · AS3245:57 AM San Francisco International Airport
13h12
7:09 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA11846:40 AM San Francisco International Airport
4h20
11:00 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1870 · UA17756:45 AM San Francisco International Airport
8h51
3:36 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA285 · UA13286:50 AM San Francisco International Airport
9h54
4:44 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
american_airlinesAA13537:15 AM San Francisco International Airport
4h05
11:20 AM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA1299 · UA17757:20 AM San Francisco International Airport
8h16
3:36 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
unitedUA20977:44 AM San Francisco International Airport
4h18
12:02 PM O'Hare International Airport0 transfersDirect
unitedUA2416 · UA15257:55 AM San Francisco International Airport
9h50
5:45 PM O'Hare International Airport1 transfer
frontier_airlines1:37 PM San Francisco, CA
15h22
4:59 AM Chicago, IL0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL 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.

Wed
Dec 17
Thu
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23

Airlines: Alaska Airlines, United, American Airlines, Frontier Airlines from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, ILFind the best flights between San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL with Omio's travel partners Alaska Airlines, United, American Airlines, Frontier Airlines from $89 (€71). 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 20m
Cheapest Price
$218 (€174)
United frequency
18 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 17m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€71)
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
4h 23m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€107)
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 58m
Cheapest Price
$130 (€104)
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: San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL Flight

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

FAQs
Cheap plane tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $102 (€81) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is $267 (€212); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The flight time to Chicago, IL from San Francisco, CA is on average 4 h 13 min   for the 1849 mile (2983 km) long journey, but the time it takes to go between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL by flight can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12: 08AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The latest flight from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11: 58PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL without having to change trains with United, Alaska Airlines or American Airlines. There are 13 direct flights from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the best San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL flight to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with United, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines or Frontier Airlines. However, it's always good to check all possible airlines with services to Chicago, IL from San Francisco, CA to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month for a flight from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is September.
You have options as you can travel to Chicago, IL from San Francisco, CA 3 different ways: bus, train or flight.
Since neither San Francisco, CA nor Chicago, IL 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 San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL all year round.
The best events to attend in Chicago, IL include:
  • Chicago Air and Water Show, an exhilarating display of military and civilian aircraft performing daring maneuvers over Lake Michigan
  • Lollapalooza, a massive music festival featuring top artists across multiple genres in Grant Park
  • Chicago Gourmet, a premier culinary event celebrating the city's vibrant food scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings.
The best holidays to experience in Chicago, IL include:
  • Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer with vibrant outdoor activities and events
  • Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and festive celebrations throughout the city
  • Labor Day, a lively atmosphere with various festivals and pleasant weather.
The best seasons to visit Chicago, IL are Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Chicago, IL is during May-September.
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 San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

San Francisco
Chicago
The major airport for departures 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 trip from San Francisco to Chicago.
Amenities at airport
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
ShowerShower
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
carConnection
Car connection
US-101, exit 423A
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Shops are located in all terminals, including DFS Duty-Free and Burberry.
Parking
Parking
  • Parking available in the Domestic and International Garages, approximately 1.9€ ($2) per 15 minutes.
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, toilets.
WC
WC
  • Available throughout the airport.
Shower
Shower
  • Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Lounges available, including the United Club and Delta Sky Club.
Lost and Found Office
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

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

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The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

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