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$172 Cheap Flights from Chicago (ORD) to Panama City (ECP)

View $172 flight on Mon, Sep 7, 2026Opens in a new window

Popular airlines from Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. Airport (ECP)

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Cheap Flights from Chicago to Panama City (ORD-ECP)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $172 for one-way flights and $268 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Mon, Sep 7 - Mon, Sep 14
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$268 Roundtrip, found 3 days ago
$268
Roundtrip
found 3 days ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Mon, Sep 7 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Mon, Sep 14, priced at $268 found 3 days ago
United
Sat, Oct 3 - Thu, Oct 8
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$343 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$343
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Oct 3 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Thu, Oct 8, priced at $343 found 4 hours ago
American Airlines
Mon, Sep 28 - Mon, Oct 5
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$345 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$345
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Mon, Sep 28 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Mon, Oct 5, priced at $345 found 4 hours ago
American Airlines
Thu, Oct 29 - Tue, Nov 3
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$348 Roundtrip, found 4 hours ago
$348
Roundtrip
found 4 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Thu, Oct 29 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Tue, Nov 3, priced at $348 found 4 hours ago
United
Sat, Nov 28 - Tue, Dec 1
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$350 Roundtrip, found 3 hours ago
$350
Roundtrip
found 3 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Nov 28 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Tue, Dec 1, priced at $350 found 3 hours ago
American Airlines
Sat, Oct 17 - Thu, Oct 22
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$354 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$354
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $354 found 2 hours ago
United
Sat, Oct 17 - Thu, Oct 22
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$357 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$357
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $357 found 2 hours ago
American Airlines
Mon, Sep 21 - Sat, Sep 26
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$359 Roundtrip, found 1 day ago
$359
Roundtrip
found 1 day ago
Select American Airlines flight, departing Mon, Sep 21 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Sat, Sep 26, priced at $359 found 1 day ago
United
Fri, Jan 15 - Mon, Jan 18
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$360 Roundtrip, found 9 hours ago
$360
Roundtrip
found 9 hours ago
Select United flight, departing Fri, Jan 15 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Mon, Jan 18, priced at $360 found 9 hours ago
Delta
Sat, Oct 17 - Thu, Oct 22
ORD
Chicago
ECP
Panama City
$363 Roundtrip, found 2 hours ago
$363
Roundtrip
found 2 hours ago
Select Delta flight, departing Sat, Oct 17 from Chicago to Panama City, returning Thu, Oct 22, priced at $363 found 2 hours ago

Alternative airports near Panama City

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

Select flight to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. ECP. Cheapest and Closest option available. Average driving time to city center is 35 minutes. Flights from $413
ECP
Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.
CheapestClosest
Average driving time to city center35 min
Flights from $413

Find the cheapest month to fly from Chicago (ORD) to Panama City (ECP)

June is typically the cheapest month to fly

From $227 - $378 per traveler.

What you need to know for your flight from O'Hare Intl. to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.

Chicago (ORD) to Panama City (ECP) at a glance

Travel from Chicago (ORD) to Panama City (ECP) with a range of airlines offering convenient flights on this domestic short-haul route. Whether you prefer full-service or budget-friendly options, you can compare various flights to Panama City to discover the itinerary that best suits your needs and schedule. As you plan your visit to explore the iconic sights and neighborhoods of Panama City, be sure to check the essential details for your journey from O'Hare International Airport to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 2h 30m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 800 miles (1,290 km)
  • Flights per week: around 13 departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $105–$385, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Chicago to Panama City, featuring both non-stop and one-stop choices. Many flights include popular layover airports such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) with a layover of about 1h 45m, Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) at around 1h 30m, and Nashville International Airport (BNA) with a layover of approximately 2h 15m. This allows you to customize your journey by balancing price, total travel time, and cabin class for the ideal itinerary.

  • United: This full-service airline offers both non-stop and one-stop flights, with one-way prices generally falling between $105 and $370. United contributes to approximately 44% of departures on this route, providing a typical non-stop travel duration of about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
  • American Airlines: Another full-service option, American Airlines provides non-stop and one-stop services, with one-way fares typically ranging from $105 to $440. It accounts for around 32% of departures on this route, with a standard non-stop flight time of 2 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Delta: Operating one-stop services, Delta's one-way fare range is usually between $105 and $415. It represents about 18% of the departures for this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes, totaling roughly 5 hours and 15 minutes when including layover time.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a low-cost carrier, Southwest provides both non-stop and one-stop options, with one-way fares generally between $120 and $315. It covers around 6% of departures on this route, offering a typical one-stop flight time of 3 hours and 15 minutes, with an overall journey time of about 5 hours and 15 minutes.

Travelers have the option to upgrade their flight from Chicago to Panama City, with both American Airlines and United offering first-class service for this route.

Best time to fly from Chicago (ORD) to Panama City (ECP)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Panama City are February, March, and April, when peak temperatures in Panama City reach up to 68.4°F in April. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 62.4°F. For better deals, January usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $182. Flight availability peaks in March, with approximately 21 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January, May, August, and September have the fewest flights, with approximately 10 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: January usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $182, roughly 14% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: February, June, and May typically offer average one-way fares roughly ranging from $184 to $198.
  • Most flight options: March has the highest number of flights from Chicago to Panama City, with approximately 21 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January54.1°F (12.3°C)Average10$182
February57.9°F (14.4°C)High13$184
March62.8°F (17.1°C)High21$225
April68.4°F (20.2°C)High16$208
May75.0°F (23.9°C)Average10$198
June81.1°F (27.3°C)Average11$195
July82.6°F (28.1°C)Average13$230
August82.8°F (28.2°C)Average10$218
September79.5°F (26.4°C)Average10$210
October72.0°F (22.2°C)Low13$275
November62.4°F (16.9°C)Low11$204
December58.1°F (14.5°C)Low11$235

*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 routes from Chicago (ORD) to Panama City (ECP)

  • Chicago to Fort Walton Beach (ORD-VPS): Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) is located approximately 46 miles from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP). One-way economy prices for this route generally fall between $90 and $435, influenced by the season and when you book. This journey typically offers both direct and connecting flights. Leading airlines for this route include American Airlines and Delta, with first class service also available.
  • Chicago to Panama City (MDW-ECP): Midway International Airport (MDW) is about 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD). One-way economy fares on this route usually range from $95 to $400, depending on the time of year and booking conditions. Travelers can choose from both non-stop and one-stop flights. Major airlines serving this route include the budget-friendly Southwest Airlines and Delta.
  • Chicago to Fort Walton Beach (MDW-VPS): Midway International Airport (MDW) is roughly 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD), while Northwest Florida Regional Airport (VPS) lies about 46 miles from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP). One-way economy fares for this route typically range from $95 to $425, varying by season and timing of the booking. Passengers can expect one-stop options, often with layovers at Nashville International Airport (BNA) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Southwest Airlines and Delta are the primary carriers on this route.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) to Panama City (ECP)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to Panama City is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking 2 to 8 weeks in advance, which is also the period when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 AM and 12 PM tend to offer lower prices and are popular flight times, while flying on Tuesday generally provides cheaper rates, even though Saturday is the busiest travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. 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.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. 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 Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport from O'Hare International Airport

Panama City welcomes travelers from Chicago with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Panama City efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Panama City, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Northwest Florida Beaches 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.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $172 and cheap return flights from $268 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights usually range from $146 to $712, and return flights typically cost between $320 and $1141. 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from ORD to ECP is September 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
Choose from 2 airlines operating direct flights from ORD to ECP:

  • United operates around 20 direct flights from ORD to ECP every week
  • American Airlines operates around 10 direct flights from ORD to ECP every week

What is the cheapest airline that flies from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
American Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering nonstop flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Panama City, FL (ECP), with round-trip tickets starting from around $487. Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Panama City, FL (ECP) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, United offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, WN typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from ORD to ECP, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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.
How many flights per day from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
There are approximately 4 nonstop flights per day from O'Hare Intl. (ORD) to Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. (ECP). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) typically departs at around 12:10 AM local time, operated by American Airlines. This is a seasonal service active in December, allowing you to start your trip early and make the most of your time in Florida. 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Chicago, IL (ORD) to Panama City, FL (ECP) are typically between 9am and 12pm. About 33% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, United, and Delta, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to travel early in the day and arrive in Panama City with time to spare.
How long does it take to fly from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from ORD to ECP takes around 2 hours 30 minutes, with the route covering approximately 812 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 3 hours 30 minutes longer than direct options. 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
First class is available on flights from ORD to ECP. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Panama City from O'Hare Intl. (ORD)?
From O'Hare Intl. (ORD), you can fly into Northwest Florida Beaches Intl. (ECP) and Tocumen Intl. (PTY) in Panama City. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County (DTW), Indianapolis Intl. (IND), LaGuardia (LGA) before reaching Panama City. 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.) flight and hotel package 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 Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.)?
If you booked your Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.) to Panama City, FL (ECP-Northwest Florida Beaches 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
O'Hare Intl.
Destination airport
Northwest Florida Beaches Intl.
Airlines serving
American Airlines, Delta, United
Roundtrip price
$268
Distance
811 mi
Average flight time
2 hours 32 mins

Book with confidence

Chicago to Panama City Flights

The cheapest times to fly from Chicago to Panama City

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 Chicago to Panama City are during the month of September. You can find some of the cheapest flights from Chicago to Panama City with Expedia's search tool and vast selection of airlines.

 

The best time to book a flight from Chicago to Panama City

Sunday is one of the best days to book for cheap flights from Chicago to Panama City: 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 Chicago to Panama City

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 Chicago to Panama City in 2026. You can also book with separate airlines for your outbound and return journeys, from $172 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 Chicago to Panama City 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 Chicago to Panama City 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.

 

Chicago to Panama City Flights

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

 

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