Complete travel information for your December journey
Nonstop flight time between O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is typically about 3 hours and 40 minutes to 4 hours in December, depending on winds and routing. Weather-related delays are possible in Chicago area winter storms, so allow extra time for connections and check flight status before heading to the airport.
Yes — several carriers operate nonstop flights between O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) in December, including major U.S. carriers. Nonstop frequencies can increase during holiday travel; book early to secure the best times and prices.
To find cheap December flights from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), compare fares across carriers and booking sites, set price alerts, and be flexible on weekday departures. Consider early-morning or late-evening flights and check nearby airports and connecting flights for savings; booking 3–8 weeks in advance for holiday travel is often optimal.
December travel from O'Hare International Airport (ORD) requires planning for winter weather — arrive earlier than usual, monitor flight and road conditions, and check your airline’s rebooking policies. Pack warm layers in carry-on luggage and keep essential items and medications with you in case of delays or de-icing operations.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD) serves Chicago and major nearby cities including Milwaukee, Indianapolis, Detroit, Minneapolis–Saint Paul, and St. Louis as convenient connecting hubs. Travelers from these metro areas often use ORD for nonstop or easy-connection flights to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
Terminals and gates vary by airline at O'Hare International Airport (ORD), so confirm your terminal and gate before traveling; larger carriers typically operate from Terminals 1, 2, and 3, with some international or partner flights using Terminal 5. In December, expect extra screening lines and possible supplemental staffing, so arrive two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international flights.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is the most convenient airport for visiting downtown Phoenix and Scottsdale in December due to its close proximity and extensive ground transport. The airport offers rental cars, rideshares, and light rail connections to downtown Phoenix, with Scottsdale accessible via short drives or shuttle services.
December in Phoenix is mild and dry, with average daytime highs around the mid-60s to low 70s °F (18–23 °C) and cooler evenings. You can expect sunny days ideal for outdoor activities in Scottsdale, Tempe, Sedona day trips, and visits to nearby attractions like Camelback Mountain.
Travel time from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) to downtown Phoenix is typically 10–20 minutes by car, depending on traffic, while Scottsdale is about 20–30 minutes. Rideshares and taxis are widely available; consider pre-booking shuttles or rental cars if you plan day trips to Sedona or Tucson.
Yes, direct (nonstop) flights operate between O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) throughout December. Frequency may increase around holidays; check specific airline schedules for added seasonal flights and book early for the best seats and prices.
From Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) you can easily access Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Flagstaff, Sedona, and Tucson — all popular December destinations. Many travelers use PHX as a base for desert hikes, golf courses, and nearby national parks; winter temperatures make it a desirable escape from colder northern climates.