Chicago (ORD) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG) at a glance

Explore a range of airlines offering flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG) in Rio de Janeiro on this international long-haul route. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights from Chicago or prefer full-service options, you can compare itineraries that suit your budget and travel plans. Discover the vibrant sights and neighborhoods of Rio as you plan your next flight from Chicago.

• Fastest flight duration: around 12 hours in-flight, plus roughly 2h 15m layover with one stop
• Route distance: roughly 5,300 miles (8,530 km)
• Flights per week: around 12 departures on average
• Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $250–$765, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG)

Based on the latest traveler bookings, here are the top airlines favored for flights from Chicago to Rio de Janeiro, particularly for one-stop and multi-stop itineraries. Common layover points include Tocumen International Airport, PTY (approximately 2h 15m layover), Miami International Airport, MIA (around 2 hours layover), and George Bush Intercontinental Airport, IAH (about 1h 30m layover). These options allow you to mix and match fare prices, overall travel duration, and cabin classes to create the most suitable travel plan.

• American Airlines: As a full-service airline, American Airlines provides both one-stop and multi-stop options. One-way fares generally fall between $250 and $845, representing about 31% of the departures on this route. Flights typically last around 12 hours in the air, with an overall travel time of approximately 14 hours and 30 minutes.
• Copa: This full-service airline specializes in one-stop itineraries, with one-way ticket prices usually ranging from $250 to $660. Copa accounts for roughly 25% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight duration of 12 hours and a total journey time of about 14 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.
• United: Offering one-stop service, United Airlines is a full-service carrier with one-way fares typically between $265 and $705. It comprises around 17% of the flights on this route, with an in-flight duration of 12 hours and a total travel time of roughly 14 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover time.
• Delta: Delta operates as a full-service airline with both one-stop and multi-stop options. Its one-way fares range from $290 to $630, making up approximately 13% of departures on this route. Passengers can expect a flight duration of 12 hours, with a total journey time close to 14 hours and 30 minutes.
• Avianca: As a full-service carrier, Avianca provides one-stop service, with one-way prices typically ranging from $350 to $935. This airline accounts for about 6% of the departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 12 hours and an overall journey time of around 14 hours and 30 minutes, including layovers.

Travelers have the option to enhance their journey from Chicago to Rio de Janeiro by upgrading to business class, available through both Avianca and Copa for a more comfortable flight experience.

Best time to fly from Chicago (ORD) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Chicago to Rio de Janeiro are February, March, and December, when peak temperatures in Rio de Janeiro reach up to 80.2°F in February. If you prefer quieter travel, consider June, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 70.3°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $349. Flight availability peaks in December, with approximately 16 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times.

• Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $349, roughly 22% cheaper than the yearly average.
• Another budget-friendly time to fly: November typically offers an average one-way fare of around $366.
• Most flight options: December has the highest number of flights from Chicago to Rio de Janeiro, with approximately 16 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.

Month	Temperature	Demand	Weekly Flights	Average one-way Fare
January	80.1°F (26.7°C)	Average	10	$402
February	80.2°F (26.8°C)	High	15	$517
March	78.6°F (25.9°C)	High	15	$404
April	75.4°F (24.1°C)	Average	11	$467
May	72.0°F (22.2°C)	Low	11	$457
June	70.3°F (21.3°C)	Low	10	$452
July	70.0°F (21.1°C)	Low	10	$559
August	70.5°F (21.4°C)	Average	11	$403
September	72.9°F (22.7°C)	Average	13	$349
October	74.3°F (23.5°C)	Average	11	$405
November	75.2°F (24.0°C)	Average	12	$366
December	78.1°F (25.6°C)	High	16	$635

*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 Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

• Chicago to Rio de Janeiro (ORD-SDU): Santos Dumont Airport (SDU) is located approximately 9 miles from Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport (GIG). One-way economy fares for this journey generally range from $320 to $790, influenced by the time of year and how early you make your reservation. Flights on this route are typically available with one-stop and multi-stop options, primarily connecting through Guarulhos - Governor André Franco Montoro International Airport (GRU). Major airlines operating on this route include United and GOL Linhas Aereas S.A., a budget carrier.
• Chicago to Rio de Janeiro (MDW-GIG): Midway International Airport (MDW) is situated about 16 miles from O'Hare International Airport (ORD). On this route, one-way economy fares usually fall between $280 and $855, depending on the season and booking timing. Travelers can choose from both one-stop and multi-stop flights, with many connections occurring at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Leading airlines for this route comprise Delta and LATAM Airlines Group.

How to find the best prices for flights from Chicago (ORD) to Rio de Janeiro (GIG)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Chicago to Rio de Janeiro 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 available when booking at least two months in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Afternoon departures, particularly between 12 PM and 6 PM, tend to offer lower prices and are also the most favored flight times. Additionally, flying on Fridays not only provides cheaper options but is also the most popular 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 Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport from O'Hare International Airport

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

• Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Rio de Janeiro, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
• Car rental: Renting a car from Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim 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 Galeão - Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport, Olaria Station (a train station) is located about 4.7 miles away by car, while Maria da Graca Station (a metro station) is approximately 7 miles away by car. Additionally, Terminal Rodoviário Novo Rio (a bus station) is situated about 9 miles from the airport, making it accessible for travelers seeking bus connections.