Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
A nonstop flight from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) typically takes about 3 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours in December, depending on wind and routing. If you choose a one-stop itinerary the total travel time can range from 5 to 8+ hours including layovers. For the best nonstop flight options and schedules in December, search for Chicago to Phoenix direct flights and book early to secure preferred departure times.
Yes — major carriers operate nonstop routes between Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) and Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) throughout December, though frequencies may vary around holidays like Christmas and New Year's. Expect multiple daily nonstop flights on peak days; however, book in advance as seats can fill quickly during holiday travel. Use flight search tools focusing on Chicago to Phoenix nonstop flights to compare times and prices.
You can find cheaper fares by booking 6–8 weeks ahead, flying mid-week (Tuesday–Thursday), or using low-cost carriers that serve the Chicago–Phoenix market. Use fare alerts and compare multi-airline itineraries to spot deals for December travel; flexibility on exact departure dates can save a significant amount. Consider connecting flights via Denver or Dallas if nonstop fares are higher during peak holiday dates.
December in Chicago often brings winter storms and possible delays or cancellations that can affect departures from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA), while Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) usually has mild, dry weather with rare disruptions. Monitor weather forecasts, sign up for airline alerts, and allow extra connection time if your itinerary includes a Chicago-based connection. Buying travel insurance for December trips can protect you against winter-related cancellations.
Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) refers collectively to O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport; carriers to Phoenix typically operate from O'Hare (ORD) and some low-cost and regional flights may depart Midway (MDW). On the Phoenix side, Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) primarily routes into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, with some charters or connecting regional flights using nearby airports. Check your itinerary confirmation for the exact airport and terminal to plan transfers and ground transport.
From Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) travelers commonly access Scottsdale, Mesa, Sedona, Flagstaff, and Tucson for winter-friendly activities like hiking, golf, and desert sightseeing. December is ideal for outdoor excursions and holiday events across Greater Phoenix and nearby Northern Arizona destinations. Consider reserving car rentals or shuttle transfers in advance to reach resorts and national parks during the busy December season.
From Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) the quickest options are the PHX Sky Train to Valley Metro Light Rail for downtown Phoenix or rideshare/shuttle services directly to Scottsdale, Mesa, and hotel areas. December sees higher demand due to holiday events and winter visitors, so pre-book airport shuttles or reserve a rental car for flexibility. Check arrivals at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport for terminal-specific pickup points.
Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) is busy in December, especially during holiday weekends and spring-break lead-ins; weekends and days before Christmas/New Year's Eve often see higher arrival volumes. However, Phoenix's mild weather keeps operations steady with fewer weather-related cancellations than northern hubs. Arrive early, plan ground transport ahead, and check flight status for real-time arrival updates.
Common connecting hubs include Denver (DEN), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Las Vegas (LAS) when direct nonstop flights are unavailable or more expensive. Connections are typically shorter when routing westbound and many airlines offer same-day single-connection itineraries. For December travel, allow extra connection time to accommodate potential delays from Chicago-originating flights.
December in the Phoenix area offers family-friendly attractions and festive events such as Phoenix Zoo Lights, Glendale Glitters, Scottsdale's Winterfest and holiday art walks, and seasonal markets across Greater Phoenix. Sports fans can catch NFL games at State Farm Stadium in nearby Glendale or NBA matchups with the Phoenix Suns. Outdoor lovers can take advantage of cooler desert days for hiking in Camelback Mountain, day trips to Sedona, or exploring the deserts around Mesa and Tucson. Book tickets and tours early for holiday dates to ensure availability.
The best times to fly from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) in December are mid-week mornings and early afternoons, avoiding the heavy holiday windows around Dec 22–26 and Dec 30–Jan 2. Early morning departures can reduce the risk of cumulative delays caused by Chicago winter weather later in the day. If you prioritize lower prices, search for flights 6–8 weeks before travel and be flexible with departure/return days to capitalize on mid-week savings.
Nonstop flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) offer simpler logistics and shorter total travel time—typically around 3h40m–4h—and are preferable during December to reduce exposure to winter disruptions. Connecting flights can be cheaper but increase delay risk and total travel time; common layover hubs include Denver (DEN), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), and Las Vegas (LAS). If chasing low fares in December, weigh the savings against the possibility of missed connections due to Chicago weather, and allow longer layover buffers when booking.
Major carriers operating the Chicago–Phoenix market in December include American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. American and United typically offer multiple nonstop flights per day from O'Hare, Southwest provides competitive fares often from Midway or O'Hare with generous free two-checked-bags policy, and Delta offers connections via its hubs. Consider total trip cost (fare + baggage + seat selection), onboard comfort, and frequent flyer benefits when choosing. For December, prioritize airlines with reliable winter operations and flexible change policies.
Traveling from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) in December requires planning for cold origin temperatures and warm destination conditions. Pack layers: a warm coat for Chicago departures and lighter clothes for Arizona; bring sunscreen for daytime desert outings. Reserve airport parking or pre-book rideshares due to holiday demand and allow extra time for security lines and winter delays at Chicago airports. Keep digital copies of itineraries, enroll in airline notifications, and consider refundable fares or travel insurance for added flexibility during the busy December season.
Nonstop flights from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) average about 3 hours 40 minutes to 4 hours in December, accounting for typical headwinds and routing. Airlines generally operate multiple daily flights, with increased frequencies on weekends and around holiday dates. If you choose a one-stop itinerary, expect total travel times between 5 and 8+ hours when routing through hubs like Denver (DEN), Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW), or Las Vegas (LAS). Always check up-to-date published schedules and verify departure airports (O'Hare vs Midway) when booking December travel.
To find the cheapest December fares from Chicago (All Airports) (CHIA) to Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA), search 6–10 weeks in advance and set fare alerts for flexible dates. Traveling mid-week, especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays, often yields lower prices; avoid peak holiday windows around Dec 22–26 and Dec 30–Jan 2. Consider mixed-carrier itineraries or one-stop flights via Denver or Dallas to reduce costs, and compare major carriers (American, United, Delta) with low-cost options like Southwest for baggage-inclusive pricing. Use long-tail keywords in your searches like 'cheap nonstop Chicago to Phoenix December' to surface targeted deals and sign up for airline sales newsletters.
Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA) provides quick access to seasonal attractions like Phoenix Zoo Lights, holiday markets, Scottsdale's holiday shopping and spa resorts, and day trips to Sedona and Flagstaff for mild winter hikes or desert sightseeing. December is ideal for outdoor recreation, golf, and festive events, so book tours and tickets in advance. Use location-specific searches like 'Phoenix holiday events December' to find local activities.
Standard airline baggage rules apply on arrival at Phoenix (All Airports) (PHXA), but December holiday travel increases the chance of oversold overhead bin space—consider checking larger carry-ons. Airlines may have seasonal policies for sports equipment or holiday gifts; check your carrier's website for exact allowances. If traveling with pets, reserve in-cabin or checked pet space early and follow airline temperature and documentation guidelines.
