Sun Country Airlines at ORD Airport: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning to fly with Sun Country Airlines from Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), you might be wondering about the terminal you’ll be using and what to expect. Navigating O’Hare can be overwhelming due to its size and passenger volume, but with a bit of preparation, your travel experience can be smooth and stress-free. Sun Country Airlines operates out of Terminal 5 at ORD, and this guide will provide everything you need to know about the terminal, from check-in procedures to dining options and more.

Understanding Terminal 5 at ORD

O’Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, with four main passenger terminals (1, 2, 3, and 5). Terminal 5, often referred to as the international terminal, primarily handles international flights but also accommodates a few domestic airlines, including Sun Country Airlines.

Terminal 5 was renovated recently, and the upgrades have made it more passenger-friendly with modern amenities, improved infrastructure, and better dining and shopping options. While Terminal 5 is slightly separate from the other terminals at O’Hare, it’s well-connected by the airport’s transportation system, making it accessible for both domestic and international travelers.

Check-In Process for Sun Country Airlines

When flying with Sun Country from Sun Country Airlines ORD Terminal, the check-in process is straightforward. Upon arriving at the terminal, you’ll find Sun Country’s check-in counters located in the main concourse. As with most airlines, Sun Country offers multiple check-in options:

1. Online Check-In: You can check in online up to 24 hours before your flight. This option is highly convenient, allowing you to skip the lines at the airport. If you’ve checked in online, you can print your boarding pass at home or use a mobile boarding pass.
2. Airport Check-In: If you prefer checking in at the airport, I recommend arriving at least two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights. During peak travel seasons, consider arriving even earlier to ensure you have enough time for security screening. The airport check-in process is generally smooth, and the staff at Sun Country’s counters are helpful and efficient.
3. Self-Service Kiosks: Terminal 5 also has self-service kiosks that allow you to check in quickly and print your boarding pass. If you’re traveling with only a carry-on, this is a time-saving option.

Once you’ve checked in, the next step is passing through security, which can vary in time depending on how busy the terminal is. Fortunately, Terminal 5 is known for shorter security lines compared to some of the other terminals at O’Hare.

Security and TSA PreCheck at Terminal 5

Like most major U.S. airports, Terminal 5 at ORD has multiple security lanes, including a dedicated TSA PreCheck lane for eligible passengers. If you’ve enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you can expect a faster and more streamlined security process, as you won’t have to remove your shoes, laptops, or liquids from your bags.

For those not enrolled in TSA PreCheck, it’s still recommended to arrive early to account for potential lines. O’Hare can be particularly busy during holidays or weekends, so it’s always better to have extra time to clear security.

Dining and Shopping Options in Terminal 5

After clearing security, you’ll have access to a variety of dining and shopping options in Terminal 5. Since this terminal serves many international passengers, the amenities cater to diverse tastes and needs. Here are some of the top choices:

Dining:

• Tortas Frontera: This popular restaurant, created by renowned chef Rick Bayless, offers gourmet Mexican sandwiches (tortas) made with fresh ingredients. It’s an excellent choice for a quick yet satisfying meal before your flight.
• Big Bowl: If you’re in the mood for Asian cuisine, Big Bowl offers a variety of stir-fry dishes, noodles, and salads made from fresh ingredients.
• Starbucks: For a quick coffee fix or a light snack, there are several Starbucks locations throughout Terminal 5.

Shopping:

• Hudson News: If you need to grab a magazine, book, or snacks for your flight, Hudson News is a convenient spot to stock up on travel essentials.
• Duty-Free Shopping: While duty-free shopping is primarily available for international travelers, the shops offer a range of high-end products like perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, and luxury goods. If you’re flying internationally with Sun Country, it’s a great opportunity to take advantage of duty-free prices.

Lounges and Relaxation

Although Sun Country Airlines doesn’t operate its own lounge at O’Hare, Terminal 5 has several lounges accessible to passengers flying with specific airlines or those holding Priority Pass memberships. If you’re looking to relax in a quiet space before your flight, consider checking out the:

• Swissport Lounge: This lounge offers comfortable seating, complimentary beverages, and snacks. It’s open to passengers who have lounge access through partner airlines or Priority Pass.
• SAS Lounge: Located in Terminal 5, the SAS Lounge is another excellent option for those seeking a calm, comfortable environment with premium services.

If you’re not using a lounge, Terminal 5 provides plenty of comfortable seating areas near the gates, many of which have charging stations and access to free Wi-Fi.

Boarding Process for Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines typically has a well-organized boarding process. The airline boards by zone or group, and announcements are made to keep passengers informed about when their group is called. The gates in Terminal 5 are clearly marked, and the staff ensures that boarding moves smoothly, allowing for an efficient process. During my recent experience, I found that the boarding area was spacious, clean, and well-maintained.

Transportation to and From Terminal 5

Getting to Terminal 5: Terminal 5 is located slightly away from the other terminals at ORD, but it’s easily accessible via the airport’s transportation system. If you’re arriving by car, follow the signs for Terminal 5 as you approach the airport. There’s parking available near the terminal, though spaces can be limited during peak travel times.

Airport Shuttle: The airport shuttle connects Terminal 5 to the other terminals at O’Hare. The shuttle runs frequently and is free for passengers, making it easy to transfer between terminals if needed.

Public Transit: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line connects downtown Chicago to O’Hare. Once you arrive at the airport station, a free airport shuttle can take you directly to Terminal 5.

Conclusion: A Smooth Experience with Sun Country Airlines at ORD

Flying with Sun Country Airlines out of Chicago O’Hare’s Terminal 5 is a smooth and efficient experience, thanks to the terminal’s modern amenities and organized layout. From convenient check-in options to a variety of dining and shopping choices, Terminal 5 offers everything you need to make your travel as comfortable as possible. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, Terminal 5 at ORD airport provides a welcoming atmosphere that makes navigating the airport stress-free.

With plenty of seating, charging stations, and free Wi-Fi, you’ll find yourself well-prepared for your journey when flying Sun Country from O’Hare. Be sure to arrive early, enjoy the amenities, and let the updated Terminal 5 make your trip an enjoyable one.