$129 Cheap Flights from Fresno (FAT) to Chicago (MDW)
Popular airlines from Fresno Yosemite Intl. Airport (FAT) to Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)
Southwest AirlinesSouthwest Airlines
DeltaDelta
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Cheap Flights from Fresno to Chicago (FAT-MDW)
Alternative airports near Chicago
Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Find the cheapest month to fly from Fresno (FAT) to Chicago (MDW)
February is typically the cheapest month to flyFebruary is typically the cheapest month to fly
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Fresno (FAT) to Chicago (MDW) at a glance
Travel from Fresno (FAT) to Chicago (MDW) with a selection of airlines offering a range of options on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you're looking for cheap flights from Fresno or prefer full-service carriers, you can compare various itineraries to suit your budget and schedule. As you plan your visit to explore Chicago's renowned attractions and neighborhoods, be sure to check the key details for flights from Fresno Yosemite International Airport to Midway International Airport.
- Fastest (typical) flight duration: around 4h 45m in-flight, plus roughly 1h 30m layover with one stop
- Route distance: roughly 1,700 miles (2,740 km)
- Flights per week: around 8 departures on average
- Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $110–$345, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book
Flights from Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) to Midway International Airport (MDW)
Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines flying from Fresno to Chicago, often favored for one-stop and multi-stop flights. Common layover airports include Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) with approximately a 1 hour and 30-minute layover, Denver International Airport (DEN) also around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and San Diego International Airport (SAN) with a 2-hour layover. These options allow you to customize your itinerary by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the best travel experience.
- Southwest Airlines: This budget-friendly airline provides both one-stop and multi-stop options, with one-way ticket prices generally between $110 and $345. Southwest Airlines dominates this route, making up about 94% of departures, featuring an in-flight duration of approximately 4h 45m and an overall travel time of around 6h 30m.
- Delta: As a full-service airline, Delta offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically ranging from $110 to $310. With about 6% of the route's departures, passengers can expect a flight time of 4h 45m and a total journey length of roughly 6h 30m, including layover time.
Best time to fly from Fresno (FAT) to Chicago (MDW)
The most popular months for travelers flying from Fresno to Chicago are March, April, and July, when peak temperatures in Chicago reach up to 73.4°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider October, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 54.9°F. For better deals, February usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $204. Flight availability peaks in November, with approximately 10 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. April has the fewest flights, with approximately 7 flights per week.
- Cheapest time to fly: February usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $204, roughly 11% cheaper than the yearly average.
- More budget-friendly months to fly: September, December, and October typically offer average one-way fares of around $214.
- Most flight options: November has the highest number of flights from Fresno to Chicago, with approximately 10 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
| Month | Temperature | Demand | Weekly Flights | Average one-way Fare |
| January | 25.7°F (-3.5°C) | Average | 9 | $223 |
| February | 27.0°F (-2.8°C) | Average | 9 | $204 |
| March | 37.0°F (2.8°C) | High | 8 | $247 |
| April | 46.0°F (7.8°C) | High | 7 | $242 |
| May | 57.0°F (13.9°C) | Low | 8 | $238 |
| June | 67.3°F (19.6°C) | Low | 8 | $256 |
| July | 73.4°F (23.0°C) | High | 9 | $230 |
| August | 73.0°F (22.8°C) | Average | 9 | $227 |
| September | 67.1°F (19.5°C) | Average | 8 | $209 |
| October | 54.9°F (12.7°C) | Low | 8 | $218 |
| November | 42.3°F (5.7°C) | Average | 10 | $249 |
| December | 33.1°F (0.6°C) | Average | 9 | $217 |
*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.
Alternative route from Fresno (FAT) to Chicago (MDW)
- Fresno to Chicago (FAT-ORD): O'Hare International Airport (ORD) lies approximately 16 miles from Midway International Airport (MDW). One-way economy fares on this route generally fall between $120 and $410, influenced by factors such as the season and the timing of your booking. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights, with popular layover options including San Diego International Airport (SAN) and Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Major airlines serving this route include United and American Airlines. Additionally, business and first-class seating options are offered on this route.
How to find the best prices for flights from Fresno (FAT) to Chicago (MDW)
Getting some of the best deals on flights from Fresno to Chicago is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:
- Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, although most travelers tend to book within 2 weeks. Morning departures (5 am-12 pm) are not only the most popular but also often come with lower prices. Additionally, flying on Tuesday typically offers cheaper fares, while Thursday remains the most popular travel day.
- Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
- Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
- Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
- Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
- Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.
Arriving at Midway International Airport from Fresno Yosemite International Airport
Chicago welcomes travelers from Fresno with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Chicago efficiently:
- Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Chicago, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
- Car rental: Renting a car from Midway International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Midway International Airport on Expedia.
- Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
- Public transportation: From Midway International Airport, Midway Station (a metro station) is located about 0.2 miles away on foot, while Chicago Ashburn Station (a train station) is about 4.1 miles away by car. Additionally, Lyons Seaport (a seaport) is situated approximately 7.2 miles from the airport, also accessible by car.
Fresno to Chicago Flights
The cheapest times to fly from Fresno to Chicago
On average, Thursday can be the cheapest time to fly, according to data from the Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC), one of the world's biggest databases for global airline sales. The data reveals that you could save up to 16% by flying on a Thursday—the cheapest day to travel on average—instead of a Sunday—the most expensive. Some of the most affordable flights from Fresno to Chicago are during the month of February. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Fresno to Chicago with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.
The best time to book a flight from Fresno to Chicago
Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Fresno to Chicago: Tickets reserved on a Sunday cost between 6% and 13% less than those reserved on a Friday, according to ARC data. The data also suggests booking early can also lead to cheaper airfares. You could save 24% by buying your tickets for domestic flights at least a month in advance and 10% by booking international flights 2 months in advance.
How to find cheap round-trip tickets from Fresno to Chicago
Being flexible with your dates and using Expedia's Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking features are some of the best ways of finding a cheap ticket from Fresno to Chicago in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $129 one-way. Expedia also offers Price Drop Protection, so if the cost of your airfare goes down after booking, you'll receive a credit for the difference*. This is available for a small fee, and is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.
Expedia's Price Tracking feature means you can stay on top of airfares without manually checking every day. It sends you automated price alerts for cheap Fresno to Chicago flights and uses historical data to indicate when the best time to book is. Download Expedia's free app to activate this handy tool in a few easy taps.
You could also save big by booking one of Expedia's vacation packages. Bundling together your Fresno to Chicago airfare with your accommodations and car rental is often cheaper than booking everything separately. There’s also One Key, Expedia's generous rewards program. Join for free and you could earn One Key cash on most bookings to save on future adventures.
*Terms apply.
Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a flight from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $129 and cheap return flights $267 Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $221 to $752, and return flights typically cost between $385 and $1143. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.
*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from FAT to MDW is February when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
Enter FAT to MDW and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
How do I find cheap flights from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
What is the earliest flight from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) to Midway International Airport (MDW) typically departs at around 5:05 AM, with United and Delta Airlines operating this route. An early departure allows you to arrive in Chicago with a full day ahead of you. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Fresno (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago (MDW-Midway Intl.) are from 9am to noon. About 29% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including Southwest Airlines and Delta, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it allows you to start your day early and arrive in Chicago with plenty of time to explore.
How long does it take to fly from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
Flying from FAT to MDW with a connection usually takes about 6 hours, traveling roughly 1,735 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
First class seats are offered on the FAT to MDW route with Delta Air Lines.
How do I earn miles on a Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.
*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Chicago from Fresno Yosemite Intl. (FAT)?
From Fresno Yosemite Intl. (FAT), you can fly into O'Hare Intl. (ORD) and Midway Intl. (MDW) in Chicago. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Sky Harbor Intl. (PHX), Portland Intl. (PDX), San Diego Intl. (SAN) before reaching Chicago. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) Chicago Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)?
If you booked your Fresno, CA (FAT-Fresno Yosemite Intl.) to Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.
Travel information
Origin airport | Fresno Yosemite Intl. Airport |
|---|---|
Destination airport | Chicago Midway Airport |
Distance | 1,734 miles away |
Airlines serving | Southwest Airlines, Delta |
Popular airline | Southwest Airlines |
Roundtrip price | $267 |