March 16, 2026 — Southwest Airlines announced Southwest Airlines to end flights at two major US airports starting June 2026, ceasing all operations at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) effective June 4, 2026. The last flights at both airports are scheduled for June 3, 2026.
The move is part of Southwest Airlines to end flights at two major US airports starting June 2026 network refinement efforts aimed at improving profitability, as confirmed by multiple outlets. Southwest has served ORD since 2021 and IAD since 2006 but will redirect service to nearby hubs including Chicago Midway (MDW), Milwaukee (MKE), Indianapolis (IND), Baltimore/Washington International (BWI), Reagan National (DCA), Philadelphia (PHL), and Richmond (RIC).
Passenger Options
Affected customers with bookings on or after June 4 can rebook or travel standby within 14 days of their original date without fare differences, or request full refunds—including for non-refundable tickets.
“As part of Southwest’s ongoing efforts to refine its network, the company will discontinue service to Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Washington Dulles (IAD), effective June 4. These changes do not represent any significant changes in flight availability for these cities, as we will continue our robust service at Chicago Midway (MDW), Baltimore Washington International (BWI), and Washington Reagan National (DCA).”
Southwest Airlines to end flights at two major US airports starting June 2026 impacts approximately 15 markets from ORD.
Local Impacts and Reactions
In Chicago, the decision comes amid discussions of FAA-proposed flight caps at ORD. CBS News Chicago reported:
“Operating at Chicago O’Hare continues to be challenging, and we are confident we can serve Chicagoland through our strongly-held position at Chicago Midway.”
— Southwest Airlines statement
Joe Schwieterman of DePaul University called the exit surprising given ORD’s role in the national system.
Employees at ORD and IAD can bid for open positions elsewhere in the network, per Fox Business.
Broader Coverage
The announcement, issued via a travel advisory on or around March 13-16, has been widely reported, including by Yahoo Travel, Parade, and NY Post on X. Southwest Airlines to end flights at two major US airports starting June 2026 highlights shifts in the low-cost carrier’s strategy, sparking discussions on X about route changes.
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