$317 Economy Roundtrip to Houston (ORD-IAH) in May from Chicago

May travel from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) typically sees steady demand as spring tourism and business travel ramps up. With United Airlines and other carriers operating multiple daily nonstop flights, travelers can expect convenient schedules for business trips to Houston and leisure connections to nearby destinations like Galveston, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands.

Departing from Chicago (ORD) FAQs

In May, Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) typically offers multiple daily nonstop flights to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), with weekday frequency often between 4–8 nonstop rotations operated primarily by legacy carriers. Frequencies increase slightly in late May around Memorial Day weekend as leisure and business travel rises; always check real-time schedules on airline sites or Google Flights before booking.

Typical nonstop flight time between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is about 2 hours 40 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes, depending on winds and routing. Allow extra time for taxiing, potential delays, and deplaning; total door-to-door travel will be longer once you include security and ground transport.

To find cheap flights for May travel, search flexible dates across mid-week departures, sign up for fare alerts from Google Flights, Skyscanner or airline newsletters, and compare low-cost carriers and legacy carriers. Booking 3–8 weeks in advance often yields better May fares; consider early-morning or late-night departures from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) for lower prices.

For domestic travel from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), arrive at least 90 minutes before departure during May to allow for security screening and possible weekend or holiday crowds. If you have checked baggage, are traveling during peak times such as Memorial Day weekend, or require TSA PreCheck, adjust arrival time accordingly to avoid stress.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) has multiple ground transport options including the CTA Blue Line train to downtown Chicago, airport shuttles, rideshare pickup zones, taxis, and regional car rental services. Many travelers also access nearby major cities and destinations from ORD, such as Milwaukee, Madison, and Indianapolis, via connecting flights or intercity buses and trains.

In May, travelers leaving Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) should plan for variable spring weather, possible thunderstorms, and higher demand around Memorial Day weekend that can affect fares and seat availability. Check weather forecasts, enroll in airline alerts for schedule changes, and book refundable or flexible fares when traveling during holiday weekends.

Arrival operations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May accommodate steady domestic inbound traffic from hubs like Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). May brings warmer temperatures and higher humidity to the Houston area, prompting travelers to plan for weather-sensitive ground transfers and increased leisure travelers around holiday weekends.

Arriving at Houston (IAH) FAQs

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) offers multiple ground transportation options including rideshares (designated pickup zones), taxis, airport shuttles, car rentals, and public bus connections to Houston Metro. In May, demand rises during festivals and graduations so pre-book rides or allow extra transfer time to popular nearby destinations like downtown Houston, Galveston, Sugar Land, and The Woodlands.

May in Houston is typically warm and humid with increasing chances of thunderstorms and occasional heavy rain that can cause ground delays. Travelers arriving at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) should monitor local weather forecasts, allow extra time for ground transportation, and consider flexible arrival plans to avoid disruption.

After landing at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), travelers can reach popular destinations such as downtown Houston, NASA Johnson Space Center in Clear Lake, Galveston for beaches, Sugar Land and The Woodlands for suburban amenities, and even connect onward to Austin or San Antonio. Car rentals, rideshares, and shuttle services make these destinations convenient from IAH.

Flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) are domestic, so U.S. customs is not required at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Expect standard domestic baggage claim procedures, with typical wait times of 10–25 minutes depending on plane size and time of day. Check airline apps for bag tracking and carousel information to reduce wait time.

IAH experiences moderate to high passenger volumes in May, particularly around university graduations and Memorial Day weekend. Expect busier security lines and higher ground transport demand; use CLEAR or TSA PreCheck if available, and consider off-peak arrival times to streamline your airport experience.

As of May, general public health guidance may vary; most domestic travelers no longer require COVID-19 testing or quarantine for arrival at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). However, travelers should check current airline and local public health advisories before travel, carry masks if desired, and follow any venue-specific requirements in Houston or nearby destinations.

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May Events Impacting ORD–IAH Travel — Festivals & Peak Dates

May brings a range of spring events and cultural happenings that affect travel between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Expect increased travel for Memorial Day weekend, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, university graduations, and local spring festivals in both Chicago and Houston. These events can push demand and fares higher around weekends, so plan and book in advance if attending major cultural events or concerts.

Best Time to Fly ORD to IAH — May Recommendations

The best time to fly from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May depends on priorities: for lower fares, target mid-week travel (Tuesday–Thursday) and early-morning flights; for reliability, choose morning departures to avoid afternoon thunderstorm delays in Houston. If traveling around Memorial Day, book as early as possible and consider flexible fares. Shoulder-May dates (early to mid-month) often deliver the best mix of price and availability.

Direct vs Connecting — ORD to IAH Flights in May

Choosing between direct and connecting flights on the ORD–IAH corridor is straightforward: nonstop flights are widely available and typically the fastest (about 2 hours 45 minutes), whereas connecting itineraries are rarely needed unless pursuing a specific fare or routing via another hub for loyalty benefits. Connecting flights increase travel time and risk of missed connections, but can sometimes save money if booking far in advance or during sale periods. For most travelers between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May, nonstop options balance convenience and schedule reliability.

Airline Comparison for ORD–IAH — May Travel Guide

United Airlines typically offers the most frequent nonstop service between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), leveraging its hub presence at both airports. American Airlines and low-cost carriers may offer competing schedules or connecting itineraries; check baggage and seat fees, onboard amenities, and loyalty program value when comparing. For May travel, examine onboard change/cancellation policies and flight times to balance price against schedule reliability—especially important during potential spring storm windows.

Seasonal Travel Tips for ORD to IAH in May

May travel between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) benefits from planning for spring-to-summer transition weather. Pack layers for Chicago’s cool mornings and warm afternoons, and lightweight, breathable clothing for humid Houston. Allow extra time for weather-related delays, especially in late afternoons when thunderstorms are more frequent in the Gulf Coast region. Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR where available, pre-book rideshares for busy weekends, and keep digital boarding passes and airline notifications enabled for last-minute gate or time changes.

Flight Time & Schedules — ORD to IAH in May

Nonstop flight times between Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) average about 2 hours 40 minutes to 2 hours 55 minutes. Schedules typically include multiple daily nonstop rotations, with peak frequencies during business hours on weekdays. In May, airlines may adjust capacity to meet holiday demand near Memorial Day, so check live schedules for added flights or time changes. Consider early departures to reduce the chance of weather-related delays and allow cushion time for connecting ground transport upon arrival in Houston.

Cheap Flights ORD to IAH in May — Deals & Booking Tips

Finding cheap flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May requires flexibility and timing. Search for mid-week departures, use fare alerts from Google Flights or Skyscanner, and be open to early-morning or late-night flights to access the lowest economy prices. Consider alternative nearby airports only if it lowers total trip cost when factoring ground transfers; for Chicago travelers, also compare fares from Milwaukee or Chicago Midway depending on itinerary. Book 3–6 weeks in advance for the best balance of price and schedule during May, and watch for Memorial Day weekend fare increases.

Tips

Use flexible dates and +/-3 day search windows to spot May savings.
Set price alerts and follow airlines on social media for flash sales.
Consider refundable or semi-flexible fares if travel plans include holiday weekends.

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Departing from Chicago (ORD) FAQs

How many daily nonstop flights operate from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May?

What is the average nonstop flight time from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)?

What are the best ways to find cheap flights from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) for May travel?

Do I need to arrive early at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) for a domestic flight to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May?

What ground transportation options are available from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) for getting to downtown Chicago or nearby cities?

Are there any May-specific travel advisories or seasonal tips for departing Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to IAH?

Arriving at Houston (IAH) FAQs

What ground transportation is available from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to downtown Houston and nearby areas in May?

Are there weather or seasonal considerations for arrivals at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May?

Which nearby cities and attractions are easy to access after landing at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)?

What should I expect at customs and baggage claim if arriving at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)?

How busy is George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May, and should I expect longer queues?

What COVID-19 or health-related guidance applies to arrivals at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in May?

May Events Impacting ORD–IAH Travel — Festivals & Peak Dates

Best Time to Fly ORD to IAH — May Recommendations

Direct vs Connecting — ORD to IAH Flights in May

Airline Comparison for ORD–IAH — May Travel Guide

Seasonal Travel Tips for ORD to IAH in May

Flight Time & Schedules — ORD to IAH in May

Cheap Flights ORD to IAH in May — Deals & Booking Tips

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