Bancroft Corners 
Clear sky
Humidity: 46
Wind: 5.94 m/sec Waukegan National Airport — Your Access to the Windy City
Introduction
Waukegan National Airport (IATA: UGN) is a midsized regional airport that lies just 40 miles north of the hustle and bustle metropolis, Chicago. It plays an essential role in serving as one of the important transportation hubs for Chicagoland area residents when they want to get away or host family members from out-of-town guests without making them drive all over town looking for their own shuttle service. This public airport has been operated by the Waukegan Port District since 1956. It was also once known as Waukegan Memorial Airport, but is essentially a successor to that venue under this management team for all intents and purposes. The airport was reclassified as Waukegan National Airport in 2014 during a FAA name change, because it is an important meeting place for traffic away from the busy O'Hare International Airport.
Airlines and Destinations
Waukegan National Airport isn't the largest or busiest airport in the region, but it still has quite a few different airlines and destinations to choose from so you can book your new favorite vacation. Today, the airport now has a few regional and charter operators flying into–
- Boutique Air operates nonstop flights to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
- Tradewind Aviation: Offering fixed schedule charter service to a number of destinations
- Priester Aviation: Providing private jet charters
In addition to these scheduled and on-demand services, Waukegan National Airport attracts a diverse array of private and corporate aircraft crews too (making it as popular amongst business travelers/clients as well).
Passenger and Flight Statistics
Waukegan National Airport is essential to relieving congestion flow patterns at neighboring O'Hare International Airport. It did have over 50,000 air passenger enplanements in Fiscal year 2019, so it is no small airport and speaks to its regional importance.
Although during 2020 and 2021 falling passenger numbers due to the effects of COVID-19 certainly disrupted, flight operations have rebounded sharply as traffic returns almost to pre-pandemic levels. Last year, Waukegan National Airport administered more than 45,000 aircraft operations between both commercial and private flights.
How to Get Here
Waukegan National Airport is situated right off of I-94, which provides a great connection to downtown Chicago and Milwaukee. Address: 2501 West Plane Rest Drive, Waukegan IL.
It is an easy 15-minute car ride from downtown Waukegan and the surrounding suburbs. Visitors can navigate the airport easily utilizing GPS or following prominent signage throughout local roads and highways.
Parking
If you would like to park at Waukegan National Airport, never worry; the airport offers free on-site parking for all of its passengers. Located in front of the terminal building, this lot is available for both passengers arriving and departing.
The airport also provides long-term parking for those who want to leave their vehicle at the lot, a few minutes of walking distance away from the main terminal. Whether you need something to fit your airplane or just the right automobile, Waukegan National Airport has got everything taken care of for a seamless arrival and departure experience.
Transportation Prices
Traveling to and from Waukegan National Airport is convenient as well as cost-effective. Ground transportation from the airport consists of a few options which include:
- Taxis: Flat-rate fares from the airport to downtown Waukegan -- about $20 and up.
- Rideshare services (Uber, Lyft): Pricing fluctuates based on demand and distance but ranges in pricing from $15-$30 for trips to cities around.
- Rental cars: There are several major rental car companies with a presence at the airport, and rates can start as low as $50 per day.
Those willing to go the least expensive route can also turn to public transportation, as Waukegan National has bus routes linking it with the rest of Chicagoland.
Terminal Layout
The terminal building at Waukegan National Airport is quite small and simple, but easy for travelers to use. The single-level building is home to the primary check-in counters just steps away from security screening, and departure/arrival domains are placed within a few hundred feet of one another.
The entire entrance to the terminal passes through a security screening process situated directly in front of airline check-in desks that passengers will find on their left-hand side. Travelers can use their departure lounge, located post-security and equipped with seating areas but few other amenities.
Arriving passengers can go right from the plane to a baggage claim area just past the security checkpoint. The holistic layout of the terminal is intended to deliver a seamless and stress-free experience for passengers.
Navigate the Airport
- Early Check-In: Ensure you arrive at the airport well before your time to check in with your airline. Check-in counters are on your left as you enter the terminal building.
- Security: Please exit Check-In and walk straight till the end of the staircase to reach Security, which is located just outside check-in. Make sure that you have your boarding pass and a government-issued ID with you.
- Departure Lounge (IVL): Upon clearing security, you carry on your journey into the departure lounge with seating, some basic facilities, and access to your boarding gate.
- Boarding at the Gate: Once your flight is announced for boarding, wait to hear when you may board and find yourself a seat in one of those infamous chairs by the gate.
- Check-in at the Gate: Be present at your gate early so you have enough time before boarding, usually 30 to an hour before your flight.
Getting Between Terminals
Waukegan National Airport is a single-terminal airport, so moving between terminals is not an issue at all. Airlines, passenger facilities, and services are all together in a single terminal building!
Services and Amenities
Waukegan National Airport is a midsized airport that provides several services and amenities to its passengers. These include:
- Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
- Power sockets to charge gadgets
- Vending machines and a small snack bar
- Restrooms and family amenities
- Rental Car Desks & Shuttle Services
- Assistance for passengers with disabilities
Waukegan National Airport might not have the luxurious offerings only found at major international hubs, but in terms of providing essential services for passengers on-the-go, they've got all bases covered.
Restaurants and Shops
Waukegan National Airport does well to cater to passengers through basic dining and shopping options. The airport only has a snack bar (that will separate you from some money) offering light refreshments such as sandwiches, snacks, and hot drinks.
If you are interested in shopping, the airport terminal has a small gift shop that sells an array of travel needs along with regional souvenirs and reading materials. The retail selection is a little small, but it can serve as an easy stop for last-minute or between-the-seats items.
Security and Customs
Waukegan National Airport has the standard TSA security checkpoint, where all passengers and items in their luggage are screened before being permitted to enter any departure gates.
There are no customs/immigration facilities at Waukegan National, because it is a domestic airport. Travelers from foreign destinations will have their luggage checked at the first U.S. airport they enter, likely O'Hare International Airport for most visitors arriving on international flights.
Accessibility
Waukegan National Airport is dedicated to providing a user-friendly environment for all passengers, including those with disabilities or special requirements. The terminal building and facilities meet guidelines set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), providing a barrier-free environment.
The airport has a number of accessible features such as:
- Designated Parking Spaces for Persons with Disabilities
- Ramps, elevators, and large doorways throughout the terminal
- Accessible restrooms and family facilities
- Passenger service assistance if you need it
Travelers should contact their airline or the airport directly to arrange any special requirements prior to their visit.
Travel Tips
- Be On Time: Put your best foot forward and arrive at the airport with ample time, especially when it is during peak travel times. Try to get there between 1-2 hours before your departure time.
- Pack Smart — Know the TSA security guidelines and pack appropriately to reduce time throughout screening.
- Use Curbside Check-in: If you have access to this service, it is great because you get checked in and your bags weighed quickly without having to stand in those long lines at the actual terminal.
- Stay Connected: Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to get some work done or keep yourself entertained while you wait for your flight.
- Local Dining – Limited options, but try the snack bar for a local taste.