When it comes to flying out of Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD), knowing which terminal your airline operates from can make your journey much smoother. If you’re flying with Sun Country Airlines, you’ll be departing from Terminal 5 — the international terminal at O’Hare. Although Sun Country is based in the U.S., its use of Terminal 5 is tied to the nature of its international routes, especially for flights to destinations in Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Here’s what you need to know about navigating Terminal 5, along with some frequently asked questions to make your travel experience with Sun Country at ORD as easy as possible.

Overview of Terminal 5

O’Hare’s Terminal 5, also known as the International Terminal, is primarily used for international flights. However, some U.S.-based carriers, such as Sun Country Airlines, also operate here for specific routes. The terminal underwent a significant renovation, resulting in improved passenger experiences with more efficient security checks, modern amenities, and a wide variety of shopping and dining options.

What to Expect in Terminal 5:

• Spacious and Modern Facilities: Terminal 5 is known for its sleek, modern design. The spacious seating areas, clean restrooms, and well-organized boarding gates make navigating the terminal a stress-free experience.

• Dining Options: Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, Terminal 5 offers numerous choices, including both fast food and gourmet restaurants. Popular spots include Big Bowl for Asian cuisine, Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless for Mexican fare, and Starbucks for your coffee fix.

• Shopping Options: Terminal 5 has a variety of retail stores where you can pick up last-minute travel essentials or souvenirs. You’ll find everything from duty-free shops to high-end boutiques, making it a great place to browse while waiting for your flight.

• Lounge Access: If you prefer a more relaxed environment before your flight, Terminal 5 offers several airline lounges, including the Air France and Swissport lounges. Some of these lounges offer day passes or access for travelers flying in premium classes, even if they aren’t part of the airline’s frequent flyer program.

Arriving at Terminal 5 for Your Sun Country Flight

Check-in Process:
Sun Country Airlines typically operates out of the main concourse in Terminal 5, and check-in counters are located near the entrance. It’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours before international flights, especially during peak travel seasons.

When you enter Terminal 5, you’ll find the check-in desks clearly labeled for Sun Country. Make sure to have your identification and travel documents ready for check-in. If you’re traveling internationally, don’t forget your passport and any necessary visas.

Security Screening at Terminal 5

One of the advantages of flying out of Terminal 5 is the streamlined security process. Thanks to O’Hare’s investments in advanced security screening technology, you can expect a relatively fast and efficient experience. That being said, it’s always wise to account for some time in case of any unexpected delays, particularly during busy travel periods such as holidays or summer vacations.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR:
If you’re a Sun Country traveler and have TSA PreCheck or CLEAR membership, you’re in luck — Terminal 5 has dedicated lines for both services, allowing you to expedite the security screening process.

Getting to Your Gate

Once you pass through security and wondering what terminal is Sun country at O'Hare, navigating to your Sun Country departure gate is simple. The terminal’s signage is easy to follow, and gates are well-marked. Keep an eye on the monitors for any gate changes or updates on your flight status.

While waiting for your flight, you can explore the various amenities available at Terminal 5. If you have time, grabbing a meal or some snacks for the flight is a good idea. The terminal’s restaurants and shops are located conveniently close to the gates, so you won’t have to worry about missing your flight while enjoying the amenities.

Arrivals at Terminal 5

If you’re arriving at O’Hare on a Sun Country Airlines flight, you’ll land at Terminal 5. For international arrivals, you’ll need to go through customs and immigration before exiting the terminal. Fortunately, O’Hare’s customs facility is well-organized, and there are usually staff members available to guide you through the process.

Transportation Options from Terminal 5

Once you’ve cleared customs and collected your luggage, you’ll have several options for transportation from Terminal 5:

• Airport Shuttle: O’Hare offers complimentary shuttle buses that transport passengers between terminals, as well as to parking lots and other facilities around the airport.

• Public Transportation: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) Blue Line provides direct train service from O’Hare to downtown Chicago. The station is located at Terminal 2, but there are free shuttles to get you there from Terminal 5.

• Rideshare & Taxis: Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate at O’Hare, and you’ll find dedicated pick-up zones outside the terminal. Taxis are also readily available.

• Car Rentals: If you prefer driving yourself, several major car rental companies have counters in the airport’s rental facility, accessible via shuttle from Terminal 5.

FAQs about Sun Country Airlines at O’Hare Terminal 5

Q: Does Sun Country Airlines only operate from Terminal 5 at O’Hare?
A: Yes, as of now, Sun Country operates from Terminal 5 at ORD for both domestic and international flights.

Q: How early should I arrive for my Sun Country flight at O’Hare?
A: It’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight and 3 hours for international flights.

Q: Can I use TSA PreCheck at Terminal 5?
A: Yes, Terminal 5 has a dedicated TSA PreCheck line, making the security process faster for those with TSA PreCheck membership.

Q: Are there any lounges in Terminal 5 I can access before my Sun Country flight?
A: While Sun Country doesn’t operate its own lounge, several lounges are available in Terminal 5, including the Swissport Lounge, which offers access for travelers flying in premium classes.

Q: How can I get to other terminals at O’Hare from Terminal 5?
A: O’Hare airport provides a free shuttle service that connects all terminals. You can also use the Airport Transit System (ATS) for quick access between terminals.