If you’re flying out of Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) with Sun Country Airlines, it’s important to know exactly where you need to go. O’Hare is one of the busiest airports in the world, and navigating its various terminals can be confusing, especially for first-time travelers. So, what terminal is Sun Country at O’Hare? Sun Country Airlines operates out of Terminal 5, which is primarily used for international flights but also handles certain domestic routes for select airlines.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through what you need to know about Terminal 5, from check-in procedures to amenities, security, and transportation options, based on my own experience flying with Sun Country Airlines.
Arriving at Terminal 5 for Your Sun Country Flight
Terminal 5 Overview:
Terminal 5 at O’Hare International Airport is the designated terminal for most international flights, as well as a few U.S.-based airlines, including Sun Country. The terminal has undergone recent renovations, offering a modern and convenient layout. It’s equipped with everything from fast food restaurants to high-end shops, making it a great place to wait for your flight. For those wondering what terminal is Sun Country at O’Hare, you’ll be heading to Terminal 5, whether you’re flying internationally or domestically.
When I arrived at Terminal 5 for my Sun Country flight, I found the check-in process to be pretty straightforward. Sun Country’s check-in counters are clearly marked, and the staff was helpful in directing me. It’s important to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight to allow ample time for check-in, security, and boarding.
Self-Check-In Kiosks:
If you’re like me and prefer to handle things quickly, you’ll appreciate the self-check-in kiosks available throughout the terminal. I used one of these kiosks to print my boarding pass, which saved me a lot of time. You can also check your bags and get information on your flight status directly from the kiosks.
Security Screening at Terminal 5
One thing I’ve learned through my travels is that security screening can make or break your airport experience. Luckily, O’Hare’s Terminal 5 has significantly improved its security screening process, and I was pleasantly surprised by how efficient it was. Even during peak travel hours, the line moved quickly. If you’re traveling with Sun Country Airlines and have TSA PreCheck, you’ll breeze through even faster, as Terminal 5 has a dedicated TSA PreCheck line.
While waiting in line, I noticed several monitors displaying flight information and security updates, which was reassuring. It’s always a good idea to keep your boarding pass handy, as you’ll need it multiple times throughout the process.
Navigating Terminal 5
Once you’re past security, navigating Terminal 5 is a breeze. As someone who’s always on the lookout for good food before a flight, I was pleased to find a wide variety of dining options. Whether you want a quick snack or a sit-down meal, Terminal 5 has you covered. My personal favorite was Tortas Frontera, which offers delicious Mexican cuisine that’s perfect for a pre-flight meal. If you’re in a hurry, there’s also a Starbucks and McDonald’s for something more familiar.
Shopping and Amenities:
For travelers who like to shop, Terminal 5 won’t disappoint. There are several duty-free stores, high-end boutiques, and convenience shops for last-minute travel essentials. I even picked up a couple of souvenirs from one of the duty-free shops before heading to my gate.
Lounge Options:
If you have time to spare and prefer a more relaxed environment, you might want to check out one of the lounges in Terminal 5. Although Sun Country Airlines doesn’t have its own lounge, other airline lounges, such as the Swissport Lounge, offer day passes for a fee. I didn’t use the lounge on this trip, but it’s definitely something to consider if you have a long layover or need a quiet place to relax before your flight.
Boarding Your Sun Country Flight
As my boarding time approached, I checked the departure monitors to confirm my gate information. One thing I appreciated about Terminal 5 was how easy it was to find my gate. The clear signage and layout of the terminal made it simple to navigate, even for someone like me who’s prone to getting lost in large airports!
Boarding itself was efficient, and Sun Country’s staff was friendly and professional. The gate area was spacious, with plenty of seating and charging stations for your electronics—always a bonus when you need to catch up on emails or charge your phone before boarding.
Arriving at O’Hare with Sun Country Airlines
If you’re arriving at O’Hare on a Sun Country flight, you’ll also land at Terminal 5. For international arrivals, you’ll need to pass through customs and immigration. The process can take a little time, but O’Hare has made it easier with kiosks for automated passport control, which speed things up. Once you clear customs, you’ll proceed to baggage claim and then the arrivals hall.
Transportation Options from Terminal 5
After landing, I found that Terminal 5 is well-connected to the rest of the airport and the city. Here are a few ways you can get to your next destination from the terminal:
- Airport Shuttle: O’Hare offers a free shuttle service between terminals, making it easy to connect if you have a layover or need to pick up a rental car.
- Public Transportation: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line train station is located at Terminal 2, and you can take a free shuttle to get there. The Blue Line is an affordable and convenient way to reach downtown Chicago.
- Rideshare and Taxis: Dedicated pick-up zones for Uber, Lyft, and taxis are located just outside the terminal.
- Car Rentals: O’Hare’s rental car center is accessible via shuttle bus from Terminal 5.
FAQs
Q: What terminal is Sun Country at O’Hare?
A: Sun Country Airlines operates from Terminal 5 at O’Hare International Airport.
Q: How early should I arrive for my Sun Country flight?
A: It’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
Q: Does Terminal 5 have TSA PreCheck?
A: Yes, Terminal 5 offers TSA PreCheck, allowing for faster security screening.
Overall, my experience flying with Sun Country Airlines from O’Hare Airport Terminal 5 was seamless. Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, knowing what terminal is Sun Country at O’Hare can make your journey smoother. With its modern facilities, dining options, and efficient security process, Terminal 5 provides a hassle-free start to any trip.