Flying through Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) and need to find a smoking area? Like its larger neighbor O’Hare, Midway is completely smoke-free indoors. Here’s everything you need to know about smoking at Chicago’s second airport.
Smoking Policy at Chicago Midway Airport
Chicago Midway has a strict 100% smoke-free indoor policy in compliance with the Smoke-free Illinois Act. This covers all areas including the terminal, concourses, gates, restrooms, baggage claim, shops, and restaurants. E-cigarettes, vapes, and similar devices are also prohibited inside.
Designated Outdoor Smoking Areas
Smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas outside the terminal building. These zones are:
Located outside terminal entrances, before security
Clearly marked with signage
Equipped with ashtrays for proper cigarette disposal
At least 15-25 feet from doorways and ventilation ports
No Smoking After Security
There are no smoking facilities inside the terminal or past the TSA security checkpoint. If you need to smoke after clearing security, you’ll have to:
Exit the secure area
Use the designated outdoor smoking areas
Re-enter through TSA security screening
This can add significant time to your journey, so smoke before entering the terminal if possible.
About Midway Airport
Chicago Midway (MDW) is a single-terminal airport with three interconnected concourses (A, B, and C). The compact layout makes it relatively easy to navigate compared to O’Hare. Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, offering many domestic flights.
Passengers on arriving flights can access all three concourses without re-clearing security, which can be convenient if you need to explore your options or meet someone at a different gate.
Penalties for Violations
Violating the indoor smoking ban can result in fines and other penalties. Airport security enforces these rules strictly, so be sure to use only the designated outdoor smoking areas.