Safety at Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) involves two distinct concerns for travelers: personal security from crime and the operational security of air travel. Midway is a major hub that adheres to strict federal aviation standards, but its urban location and compact design introduce unique considerations. This article provides a balanced assessment of both the traveler’s personal security within the airport’s boundaries and the advanced measures taken to ensure the safety of flight operations. Understanding these separate aspects allows travelers to make informed decisions about their journey.
Personal Safety and Security Inside the Airport
Personal security within the Midway terminal and concourses is generally high, reflecting the controlled environment of a major airport. The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) and the Chicago Police Department maintain a visible presence throughout the facility, including the ticketing areas, security checkpoints, and baggage claim. Surveillance cameras are extensively used to monitor public spaces, contributing to the low reported rates of violent crime inside the airport’s secure perimeter.
The primary personal security concern for travelers at Midway often relates to property crime, particularly in the parking facilities. While the airport states that its parking garages are subject to 24/7 patrols, reports of vehicle break-ins and thefts have occurred in the economy lots. Travelers should be aware that the airport operator’s liability is often limited, making off-site parking or using ride-share services a consideration for some. Inside the terminal, travelers should practice standard vigilance, such as keeping carry-on bags and personal electronics secured.
Aviation and Operational Safety Measures
The operational safety of Chicago Midway is defined by its adherence to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and the implementation of specialized technology to mitigate risks associated with its constrained footprint. Midway’s compact location means it cannot accommodate the standard 1,000-foot Runway End Safety Area (RESA) required at many other airports. This physical limitation is addressed through the installation of the Engineered Material Arresting System (EMAS) at the end of its runways.
EMAS is a passive safety system composed of crushable, lightweight concrete blocks designed to safely decelerate an aircraft that overruns the runway. When an aircraft’s wheels roll onto the EMAS bed, the material crushes under the weight, absorbing the plane’s kinetic energy and bringing it to a stop without causing major damage or injury. This system was installed following a 2005 runway overrun incident and is engineered to stop most aircraft overrunning the runway at speeds up to approximately 80 miles per hour.
Beyond the physical infrastructure, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) maintains rigorous security protocols for all passengers and baggage. This includes advanced screening technology for carry-ons and checked luggage, as well as physical screening of passengers at the checkpoint. While the airport does not offer the CLEAR expedited screening program, TSA PreCheck is available, allowing eligible travelers to pass through security more quickly and with less intrusive screening. These federal procedures are standardized across the country and form a defense against security threats to air travel.
Navigating the Surrounding Area
The safety of the area immediately surrounding Midway is a common concern for travelers, as the airport is situated in a dense urban environment. The neighborhood has a reputation for higher crime rates than some other parts of Chicago, but the immediate airport vicinity and the transportation corridors are generally well-traveled and monitored. Travelers should maintain situational awareness, particularly when transitioning between the airport and ground transportation.
The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Orange Line provides a direct and convenient rail link between the airport and downtown Chicago. The Orange Line is considered one of the safer CTA routes, especially during daytime and early evening hours, as it primarily serves the airport and runs through less densely populated areas than some other lines. For those arriving or departing during late-night or early-morning hours, the CTA remains a viable option, but travelers should remain alert, avoid displaying expensive items, and consider riding in the first car near the operator. Taxis and ride-share services are readily available at designated airport zones, offering a door-to-door alternative that many travelers prefer for convenience and perceived security.