March 14, 2026 — Dallas, Texas — Southwest Airlines to End Flights at Chicago O’Hare and Washington Dulles Airports Starting June 2026, with the carrier announcing on March 13 that it will discontinue all service to, from, and through Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) effective June 4, 2026. The move ends 20 years of service at ORD and is part of a network optimization strategy redirecting passengers to nearby hubs like Chicago Midway (MDW), Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), and Reagan National (DCA).
Southwest Airlines posted a customer travel advisory on its website notifying affected travelers. According to multiple reports, the decision refines the carrier’s network amid ongoing transformation efforts detailed by The Points Guy.
Customer Options and Refunds
Affected customers with bookings after June 4 can rebook on alternative flights or receive full refunds, as noted by Fox 7 Austin and Men’s Journal. Southwest is directing Chicago travelers to MDW and Washington-area passengers to BWI or DCA.
Local and Regional Impacts
In Chicago, CBS News highlighted the end of two decades at ORD, while ABC7 Chicago emphasized continued robust service at Midway. Washington Dulles coverage from WTOP News confirmed the June 4 closure. Additional effects include cuts to Phoenix connections, per AZ Central, and broader discontinuations reported by WANE 15.
Media and Social Media Response
Aviation outlets quickly covered Southwest Airlines to End Flights at Chicago O’Hare and Washington Dulles Airports Starting June 2026. AirlineGeeks verified the exact end date. On X, @thepointsguy shared the news, @WTOP issued an alert, and @airwaysmagazine discussed network changes. @VentonBlandinTV reported on related staffing adjustments.
No official press release appeared on Southwest’s site or X account as of March 14, but the advisory drives the coverage across sources.
