Submit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
December at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) means holiday crowds, potential snow operations, and steady nonstop service to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Travelers should expect elevated demand on peak days (mid-December and the Christmas/New Year windows), so book early and consider flexible dates to find cheaper fares. Primary search terms to use: 'ORD to IAH December flights', 'cheap ORD to Houston flights', and 'Chicago O'Hare winter delays'. Secondary and LSI keywords include nonstop flights, holiday travel tips, winter deicing, airport parking ORD, and last-minute deals. Nearby major cities commonly accessed from ORD include Chicago (downtown attractions), Milwaukee and Madison (Midwest regional connections), Indianapolis, and St. Louis — all useful for multi-city winter itineraries. CTA: Compare nonstop and connecting December flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) now to lock in best fares and flexible options.
Weekends around mid-December and the days immediately before Christmas and after New Year's Eve are typically the busiest at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Expect higher security lines, fuller parking lots, and increased flight delays during holiday peak days; arriving at least 2–3 hours before domestic departures is recommended. Use real-time airport alerts or airline apps for the latest gate and delay information and consider TSA PreCheck to speed through security.
December in Chicago often brings snow, freezing rain, and subfreezing temperatures that can cause deicing operations and ground delays at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). While Houston (George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)) usually has milder winter weather, flights departing ORD to IAH can still be delayed or cancelled due to Chicago-side weather or national air-traffic system impacts. Monitor airline notifications and consider flexible tickets or travel insurance during December holiday travel.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) offers the CTA Blue Line direct to downtown Chicago, airport shuttles, ride-share pickup areas, taxis, and car rental facilities; many services operate year-round including December. During winter storms shuttle schedules can be affected, so check CTA and ride-share app pickup instructions before traveling. If you need long-term parking, reserve in advance because December demand rises with holiday travelers.
To find cheap flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December, compare fares across major carriers like United, American, and low-cost competitors, use flexible dates around mid-week travel, and set price alerts for last-minute deals. Booking 3–6 weeks in advance for December holiday travel often helps, but flash sales can appear closer in; combine keyword searches like 'ORD to IAH cheap flights December' to capture timely offers. Consider early-morning or late-night departures — these are frequently less expensive.
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) has robust winter operations including deicing facilities, snow removal teams, and coordination with airlines to manage disruptions; however, major storms can still cause cancellations and reroutes. During December, plan for additional transit time, enable airline rebooking alerts, and keep a flexible itinerary. For airport amenities during delays, ORD has lounges, restaurants, and overnight-ready services, but some concessions may operate reduced hours on holidays.
Yes, there are frequent nonstop flights between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December operated by major carriers such as United Airlines and American Airlines. Flight frequency can increase during holiday periods, but schedules change seasonally so verify current timetables and book direct flights early for the best fares. Use airline websites or flight-search engines to compare nonstop vs connecting options for December travel.
Arriving at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December offers milder winter conditions than in Chicago, but expect holiday crowds and an uptick in ride-share and rental car demand. Popular nearby cities and destinations accessed from IAH include downtown Houston, Galveston (coastal day trips), Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas — key searches: 'IAH to Galveston December', 'Houston holiday events', and 'IAH ground transportation'. Use these keywords when planning and book shuttles or rental cars in advance to avoid holiday shortages. For seamless connections after flying from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), aim for at least a 60–90 minute layover and confirm terminal transfer options with your carrier. CTA: Reserve airport transfers and check December flight status to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) now to ensure smooth holiday arrivals.
Arrivals at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December are generally smooth, with milder weather than Chicago, though holiday crowds can increase wait times at immigration and baggage claim. Plan for typical arrival procedures, check terminal maps for connecting flights, and use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR where available if continuing travel. For ground transport, pre-book shuttles or ride-shares, especially during holiday events in Houston.
From George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) you can take METRO bus services, airport shuttles, taxis, ride-shares, or rental cars to reach downtown Houston; travel time is typically 25–45 minutes depending on traffic and weather. In December, allow extra time for holiday traffic and events like holiday parades or shopping crowds. Book ground transportation in advance during peak holiday weekends for the best rates and reliability.
December brings major seasonal events that affect travel between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). In Chicago, popular draws include Christkindlmarket, ice skating at Millennium Park, and Navy Pier holiday exhibits. In Houston, seasonal attractions such as Zoo Lights, holiday markets, and parades increase demand on popular travel dates. Use keyword searches like 'Chicago holiday market December' and 'Houston Zoo Lights December' when booking. CTA: Time your ORD to IAH trip to coincide with local events and book flights and hotels early to secure availability.
The best time to fly ORD→IAH in December is typically midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) and outside the major holiday peaks (avoid the days immediately before Christmas and the day after New Year's). Early-morning departures often have lower delay probabilities and sometimes cheaper fares, while late-night red-eyes can also be less expensive. Primary search phrases: 'best time to fly ORD to IAH December' and 'cheapest day to fly Chicago to Houston in December'. Book 3–6 weeks in advance for holiday weekends and use fare alerts for last-minute savings.
Nonstop flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) minimize travel time and reduce connection risk — a major benefit in December when winter storms can cause cascading delays. Connecting flights may be cheaper but add layover time and increase disruption exposure. Use search queries like 'nonstop ORD to IAH December' or 'cheap connecting flights ORD IAH' depending on whether you prioritize speed or savings. When booking in December, prioritize direct flights if you have tight schedules or travel during peak holiday days.
United Airlines and American Airlines operate frequent nonstop flights between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December; both offer multiple daily departures and loyalty program benefits. Compare fares, baggage policies, and change fees — United may offer more direct connections through its hubs, while American often provides competitive holiday pricing on select flights. Low-cost alternatives could appear on some dates but check for added fees. Primary keywords: 'United ORD IAH December', 'American Airlines Chicago to Houston December'. CTA: Compare carrier schedules and book the airline that best matches your December travel priorities (price, nonstop service, or loyalty perks).
Pack layers and weather-appropriate gear when traveling from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December — Chicago can be bitterly cold while Houston is milder. Carry important documents in a carry-on, allow extra time for security and potential winter delays at ORD, and confirm ground transport schedules in Houston for late arrivals. Keywords to incorporate: 'ORD to IAH packing list December', 'Chicago winter travel tips', and 'Houston holiday travel advice'. CTA: Prepare your December ORD→IAH trip checklist now to avoid last-minute holiday stress.
Typical nonstop flight time from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) averages 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours, depending on winds and routing. December schedules usually include multiple morning and evening departures, with peak windows around early morning and late afternoon to match business travel and holiday demand. Use keywords such as 'ORD to IAH flight time December' and 'nonstop Chicago to Houston duration' when researching. For holiday travel, confirm specific flight times and allow extra buffer for weather delays or increased airport processing times.
To find cheap flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December, monitor fares 3–6 weeks ahead for holiday windows and set alerts for price drops. Primary keywords: 'cheap ORD to IAH December', 'discount Chicago to Houston flights'. Secondary tactics include searching nearby departure/arrival dates, checking alternate airports for flexibility, and booking red-eye flights which often cost less. LSI terms to use: flight deals, last-minute fares, holiday airfare, nonstop vs connecting price. CTA: Set a price alert now for ORD to IAH December flights to catch flash sales and limited-time discounts.
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Book your economy class flight from Chicago (ORD) to Houston (IAH)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your december trip.
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Yes — besides Houston's downtown and the Energy Corridor, travelers often access Galveston (beaches and cruises), Austin (live music), San Antonio (River Walk holiday lights), Dallas, and New Orleans from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) for December trips. Many visitors use IAH as a gateway to Gulf Coast resorts and Texas hill country winter events, so consider multi-city itineraries or regional car rentals. Search queries such as 'IAH to Galveston December' and 'Houston holiday events' can uncover seasonal deals and tours.
For domestic-to-domestic connections at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December, allow at least 60–75 minutes to accommodate tight security lines and possible gate changes; for international connections or checked luggage transfers, plan 90–120 minutes. December holiday peak times can increase connection risk, so booking longer layovers or same-carrier itineraries reduces stress. Use airline minimum connection time guidelines but add a buffer for weather-related disruptions.
IAH handles late-night and red-eye arrivals year-round, including December; many concessions and car rental desks have extended hours, but some shops and restaurants may close earlier on holidays. If arriving late, confirm ground transportation options and check whether hotel shuttles operate during your arrival time. For safety and convenience, pre-book airport hotels or check the airport’s official page for terminal service hours during the December holiday period.
As of December, general health guidance for arrivals at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) focuses on following airline and local public-health recommendations such as mask policies, testing requirements for international arrivals, and vaccination documentation where applicable. Check your airline, the Houston Health Department, and CDC travel advisories before departure for updated December rules. Carry digital and printed copies of any required health documents and allow time for any inbound screening or paperwork.
