How is the flight distance measured?

Flight distances are measured as the great-circle (straight-line) distance between airports. Actual flight paths may be slightly longer due to air traffic routing and weather avoidance.

How long does the flight from San Francisco to Chicago take?

Flight time depends on the exact route and aircraft, but at roughly 2,985 km the typical non-stop flight takes 1–10 hours. Check the flight duration page for the exact average.

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Flight Distance: San Francisco to Chicago

2,985

Kilometres (km)

1,855

Miles (mi)

1,612

Nautical miles

About this flight distance

The great circle distance from San Francisco to Chicago is approximately 2,985 km. The typical flight time is 4h 15m.

This is the shortest possible distance between the two cities as the crow flies. Real flight paths are often slightly longer due to air traffic control routing, weather, and airspace restrictions.

Related route pages

→Direct flights San Francisco to Chicago →Flight duration San Francisco to Chicago →Cheapest day to fly San Francisco to Chicago →Flights San Francisco to Chicago

Nearby airports

Near San Francisco

San Carlos Airport (SQL)16 km
Metropolitan Oakland International Airport (OAK)18 km
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)49 km

Near Chicago

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)25 km
Gary Chicago International Airport (GYY)57 km
Michigan City Municipal Airport (MGC)95 km

Frequently Asked Questions

The great-circle distance from San Francisco to Chicago is approximately 2,985 km (1,855 miles).