Chicago Rockford International Airport

Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is often referred to as Illinois' "best-kept secret" for those wishing to avoid the chaos and endless queues of the gigantic O'Hare. This cosy and modern aviation hub allows you to begin your journey at a relaxed pace, offering passengers a luxury rarely found in metropolises — tranquillity and speed. Located in a picturesque suburb, it has become the ideal starting point for budget-conscious tourists who value their time and comfort.

Airport Features and Advantages:

• Speed and Stress-Free Experience: The main advantage of RFD is the incredibly fast completion of all formalities. The journey from the car park to the boarding gate often takes mere minutes here, which is practically impossible in major hubs.
• Economy: The airport is renowned for affordable parking rates and the availability of budget flights, making it a popular choice for family travel.
• Convenient Logistics: Despite its distance from downtown Chicago, the airport is easily accessible by car without the traffic jams typical of approaches to city airports.
• Cargo Giant: An interesting fact — this is one of the largest cargo hubs in the USA (a base for UPS and Amazon Air), which guarantees excellent technical facilities and long runways capable of accommodating any type of aircraft.
• Valet Service: A convenient parking service allowing you to hand over your car right at the terminal and head straight to the check-in counter.

• Official Airport Website: flyrfd.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 815-969-4000 (administration), +1 815-969-4412 (passenger information)
• Airport Address: 2 Airport Circle, Rockford, IL 61109, USA
• Email: rfd@flyrfd.com
• Airport Social Media: Official pages are available via the tag @FlyRFD (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter)
• Lost and Found Information: If items are left in the terminal, contact administration at +1 815-969-4412. In case of items lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For questions regarding flights and services, use the number +1 815-969-4412 or the feedback form on the official website.

When planning a trip to Chicago Rockford (RFD), it is important to consider that this airport is located at a significant distance from downtown Chicago — approximately 136 kilometres to the northwest. Despite the distance, getting here is quite simple thanks to a developed road network and established bus connections. Travellers often choose this route to save on airfares and avoid the hustle and bustle.

Bus Service (Shuttles)

The most popular and accessible method for those not planning to rent a car is the comfortable buses operated by Coach USA (Van Galder line). They run between Rockford, downtown Chicago, and the suburbs.

• Route: Buses depart from Union Station in downtown Chicago, make a stop passing through O'Hare International Airport, and arrive directly at the Rockford terminal.
• Travel Time: The journey from O'Hare takes about 60–90 minutes, and from downtown Chicago about 2 hours, depending on traffic.
• Cost: A one-way ticket costs approximately 25–35 dollars. Tickets can be purchased online or from the driver (it is better to have cash or book in advance).

Railway

There is currently no direct rail connection (metro or Metra commuter trains) directly to the Rockford airport terminal. The nearest major railway hubs are in Chicago. Tourists arriving by train will still need to transfer to a bus or taxi for the final leg of the journey.

Car and Rental

Travelling by car is the most flexible option. The route from downtown Chicago follows the interstate highway I-90 West (Jane Addams Memorial Tollway).

• Travel Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes without traffic. During peak hours, the time may increase to 2 hours.
• Car Rental: The arrivals area of Rockford Airport features counters of major rental companies (Avis, Hertz, Enterprise, National, Alamo). This is an excellent option if you plan to travel around Illinois or neighbouring Wisconsin.

Taxi and Transfers

Taxi and ridesharing services (Uber, Lyft) are available, but a trip from downtown Chicago to Rockford will be expensive due to the long distance.

• Cost: Expect a price in the range of 140–200 dollars and above for a one-way trip.
• Tip: Book a car in advance, as waiting times in remote areas can be prolonged.

Parking: A Major Advantage

If you are arriving in your own vehicle, Rockford will pleasantly surprise you with its parking conditions. Unlike congested metropolitan hubs, parking here is often free for passengers (depending on current promotions) or costs significantly less than elsewhere. Parking zones are within walking distance of the terminal, eliminating the need to wait for an internal shuttle.

Alternative Regional Airports

Since Rockford does not serve all destinations, when planning a complex route or in case of flight cancellation, it is useful to know about other aviation hubs nearby that can be reached by car or bus:

• Midway — Chicago's second-largest airport, located closer to the city centre (about 120 km from Rockford).
• General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee — a convenient alternative to the north, approximately 128 km away.
• Dane County Airport in Madison — located approximately 106 km to the northwest and convenient for those heading towards Wisconsin.

Unlike huge labyrinthine airports, Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is designed as simply and logically as possible. It is impossible to get lost here, and the journey from the entrance door to your seat on the plane takes minimum time and effort.

Terminal Structure

The airport features one main passenger terminal. This compact two-storey building serves all arriving and departing flights (mainly Allegiant Air). The absence of multiple terminals means passengers do not need to use trains, shuttles, or long walkways to reach their boarding gate.

Layout and Navigation

The airport interior is designed so that all procedures proceed linearly and quickly:

• Level 1 (Check-in and Arrivals): Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the ticketing and baggage drop area. The car rental counters and Baggage Claim area for arriving passengers are also located here. Everything is within direct line of sight.
• Level 2 (Departures): After check-in, passengers take the escalator or lift to the second floor to the TSA security checkpoint. Immediately behind it is the "secure area" (airside) with boarding gates.

Departure and Arrival Zones

The departure zone is equipped with several gates (Gate 1–4), which are located next to each other in a single waiting hall. This creates a cosy atmosphere where passengers from different flights can wait for boarding in a shared space. The arrival zone is on the lower level and is simplified to the maximum: the path from the aircraft stairs to the baggage carousel and the street exit takes just a couple of minutes.

Terminal Features

Despite its modest size, the terminal has everything necessary for a comfortable wait:

• Dining: In the departure zone (after passing security), the Skyview Café operates, where you can grab sandwiches, drink coffee, or order beverages at the bar before your flight.
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, as well as ATMs and charging stations for mobile devices.
• Shops: A small kiosk with press and souvenirs allows you to buy something for the road.

Processing Times

Speed is the main "selling point" of RFD. While major hubs recommend arriving 3 hours in advance, processes here are organised much more dynamically.

• Check-in: Queues at check-in counters are usually small, but airlines request arrival no less than 2 hours before departure to drop off luggage calmly. Check-in closes strictly 45 minutes before departure.
• Security (TSA): Passing security control here is considered one of the fastest in the country. Often the procedure takes from 5 to 15 minutes. However, during peak holiday seasons, it is better to have a time buffer.

Navigation Recommendations

Orienting yourself in Rockford is very easy: follow the signs, and you won't go wrong. If you are flying on an international flight, ensure all your documents are ready in advance, as the customs control area is also compact, and staff work efficiently. For those picking up passengers, there is a convenient waiting area ("Cell Phone Lot"), where you can park for free while waiting for a call from the arrived passenger to drive up directly to the terminal exit.

The history of Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) is a fascinating example of the transformation of a military facility into one of the most efficient transport hubs in the Midwest. What is today a modern terminal and a base for cargo giants began as strategically important territory for the American army.

From Military Camp to Civil Aviation

The airport's roots go back to 1917, when Camp Grant was founded on these lands — a US Army training centre active during the First and Second World Wars. Thousands of soldiers underwent training here, and the territory was closed to civilians. The official history of the airport as a civil facility began in 1946, when, after the war ended, the state of Illinois passed a law creating the Greater Rockford Airport Authority. In 1948, the government transferred most of the former camp's lands for the construction of aviation infrastructure.

Key Stages of Development

Turning a local airfield into an international hub took several decades. The airport constantly fought for its place under the sun, competing with the giants of neighbouring Chicago.

• 1954: Start of construction of the first proper passenger terminal, marking the beginning of regular commercial transport.
• 1987: An important stage of modernisation — the construction of the current passenger terminal building, which significantly increased traveller comfort.
• 1994: A turning point in RFD's history. UPS (United Parcel Service) chose Rockford as its major regional hub. This decision brought significant investment and the status of one of the most important cargo nodes in the country to the airport.
• 2000s: At the beginning of the century, the airport actively engaged in rebranding. To attract more passengers and highlight the convenience of its location, the name was changed from Greater Rockford Airport to Northwest Chicagoland Regional Airport, and then to the current Chicago Rockford International Airport.
• 2016: Another breakthrough — the airport signed an agreement with Amazon's cargo division (Amazon Air), which required massive expansion of aprons and cargo terminals.

Records and Achievements

Despite modest passenger traffic compared to O'Hare, Rockford holds impressive positions in logistics. Thanks to the presence of UPS and Amazon, RFD consistently ranks in the top 20 cargo airports in the USA by transport volume. Its infrastructure allows it to accept the heaviest transport aircraft in the world, including the An-124 "Ruslan" and Boeing 747-8F.

Interesting Facts

• Backup Airfield for Presidents: Thanks to the length of its runways (one of them exceeds 3,000 metres) and modern equipment, Rockford serves as the official backup airport for "Air Force One" during US presidential visits to Chicago.
• Air Show Heritage: For a long time, the airport was home to the popular Rockford AirFest, gathering thousands of spectators eager to see performances by the Thunderbirds and Blue Angels aerobatic teams.
• Museum Value: Although the territory of Camp Grant has almost completely disappeared under the runways, memorial signs reminding of the military past of this land can be found in the terminal and surrounding areas.

Services and Amenities in the Terminal

Passengers accustomed to the huge shopping galleries and food courts of major international hubs should note that the infrastructure of Chicago Rockford (RFD) corresponds to the concept of "fast and efficient". A basic set of services is presented here, sufficient for a comfortable wait for a flight, but without excesses.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops

Gastronomic opportunities at the airport are limited, but you won't go hungry. The main food outlet is located in the "sterile area" (after passing security):

• Skyview Café: A cosy café offering hot and cold sandwiches, pastries, snacks, as well as a wide selection of drinks, including coffee, fizzy drinks, and beverages. It is a great place to relax before departure.
• Retail: Next to the café is a small shop (Newsstand) where you can purchase fresh press, books, travel essentials, snacks, and souvenirs with Chicago or Rockford symbols.

Tip: If you want a full lunch or dinner, it is recommended to do so in the city before arriving at the airport, as the food selection in the terminal is oriented towards quick snacks.

Wi-Fi, Charging, and Work

The airport understands the needs of modern travellers perfectly:

• Internet: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. Connection does not require complex registration, allowing you to immediately start work or entertainment.
• Charging Stations: A sufficient number of power sockets and USB ports for charging gadgets are installed in the waiting areas at the gates.
• Business Services: There are no separate conference rooms or business centres in the terminal. However, thanks to the quiet waiting hall and good internet, passengers can comfortably work on a laptop right in the seat by the boarding gate.

Lounges and VIP Service

Rockford Airport does not have specialised airline business lounges or lounges accessible by cards (e.g., Priority Pass). The airport concept assumes that passengers spend a minimum amount of time here. The general waiting hall is spacious, clean, and usually not overcrowded, which in itself creates an atmosphere close to a VIP lounge in terms of tranquillity.

Financial Services

• ATMs: Available in the terminal for withdrawing US dollars cash.
• Currency Exchange: There are no currency exchange points at the airport. If you are flying on an international flight, it is recommended to take care of cash in advance or use cards.

Passengers with Children

The compactness of the airport makes it convenient for family trips — children will not have to walk long distances. For the convenience of parents, the following are provided:

• Nursing Suites: Modern nursing pods (Mamava pods) are installed in the terminal, ensuring privacy and comfort for mothers with infants.
• Entertainment: There are no specialised playgrounds, but the panoramic windows offer an excellent view of the runway, which often fascinates young travellers.

Accessibility

The airport fully complies with American accessibility standards (ADA):

• The building is equipped with lifts and ramps.
• Restrooms are adapted for people with disabilities.
• Boarding Assistance: Wheelchairs are provided free of charge. It is important to request this service from your airline when booking a ticket or at least 48 hours before departure.

Medical Assistance

There is no full-scale medical centre or pharmacy in the terminal. In emergencies, security staff will provide first aid and call rescuers. Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are placed in the building.

Hotels Near the Airport

There are no hotels directly in the terminal building, but thanks to its location within the city limits, the choice of accommodation within a 10–15 minute drive is large. Many hotels offer free transfers (check when booking).

• Hampton Inn Rockford: A popular choice for transit passengers, located just a few kilometres away.
• Hilton Garden Inn Rockford: A comfortable hotel with a restaurant and pool, convenient for business travellers.
• Holiday Inn Express & Suites: A budget and reliable option with breakfast included, not far from the airport.

The gastronomic infrastructure of Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) fully corresponds to its concept of a "quick and convenient hub". Here you will not find endless labyrinths of food courts typical of major metropolises. Instead, passengers are offered a compact but quality service concentrated in one spot. Since there is only one terminal in the airport, navigation is extremely simple.

Main Dining Area: Skyview Café

The only full-service establishment in the airport is Skyview Café. It is located in the departure zone ("Airside"), on the second floor after passing TSA security control. This is a versatile place combining the functions of a coffee shop, bar, and snack bar with a panoramic view of the runway.

• Menu: The focus is on "grab-and-go" format dishes. Here you can order hot panini sandwiches, fresh pizza, wraps, soups of the day, and various salads. Fresh pastries are also available: muffins, croissants, and bagels.
• Drinks: The café features a full bar. In the morning, excellent coffee is brewed here (including cappuccino and latte), and before an evening flight, one can relax with a beverage.

Local Specialities and Drinks

Although the kitchen menu is quite standard for American airports, the bar menu often delights with local offerings. Travellers should pay attention to local craft beverages from Illinois breweries, which are often in stock. This is a great opportunity to get acquainted with the tastes of the Midwest before departure.

Landside Zone (Before Security)

In the public zone of the terminal (before screening), dining options are extremely limited. There are no cafés with tables here.
Only vending machines with water, fizzy drinks, chocolate bars, and crisps are available. If you are seeing someone off or arrived too early, count only on a light snack "on the go".

Dietary Requirements (Vegetarian, Halal, Gluten-Free)

Due to the limited choice of establishments, passengers with special dietary needs should be prepared for a modest assortment:

• Vegetarians: Will be able to find suitable options among salads, fruit cuts, yoghurts, and cheese pizza.
• Vegans: The choice narrows down to simple vegetable snacks, nuts, and fruits.
• Gluten-Free and Halal: There is no specialised menu in the café. Passengers strictly observing a Halal diet or having serious allergies are strongly recommended to bring food from home. TSA rules allow solid food to be carried through security.

Prices and Opening Hours

The pricing policy of Skyview Café is typical for US regional airports — slightly higher than city prices, but without extreme mark-ups.

• Average Bill: Coffee with pastry will cost 8–12 dollars. A substantial snack (sandwich + drink) will cost about 15–20 dollars. Cash and bank cards are accepted.
• Operating Hours: The establishment opens approximately 2 hours before the first departure and works until the departure of the last flight of the day. You won't be left without coffee even before the earliest morning flight.

Recommendations for Passengers

• Quick Snack: If there is little time left before boarding, use the self-service display in Skyview Café — ready-made sandwiches and salads can be bought in a couple of minutes without waiting for preparation.
• Full Lunch: Given the absence of full-cycle restaurants in the terminal, experienced tourists recommend having lunch in the city of Rockford before leaving for the airport. Many excellent steakhouses and family restaurants are located along East State Street, just a 10–15 minute drive from the terminal.

Travelling through a regional airport like Rockford (RFD) differs significantly from the experience in huge international hubs. To ensure your trip goes as smoothly as possible, we have collected key tips that will help save time, nerves, and money.

Optimal Arrival Time

Although Rockford is famous for the absence of queues, one should not arrive at the last minute. The golden rule of this airport: arrive 2 hours before departure. This time is ample to drop off luggage and pass security without rushing.

• Critical Cut-off: Airline check-in counters close strictly 45 minutes before the flight departs. If you are late even by a minute, staff will not be able to accept your luggage, and you risk missing the flight.
• For Passengers without Luggage: If you only have hand luggage and an electronic boarding pass, you can arrive 90 minutes early, but it is better to have a time buffer in case of unforeseen circumstances on the road.

Check-in and Security Nuances

Procedures here proceed quickly but require discipline. The security area (TSA) is on the second floor.

• Documents: Keep your passport and boarding pass handy. Unlike major airports, there are only one or two control lines here, so a delay by one passenger holds everyone up.
• Liquids and Electronics: Rules are standard for the USA. Liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and laptops must be placed in separate trays (unless you have TSA PreCheck status).
• Footwear: Be prepared to remove your shoes when passing through the metal detector frame.

Seat Selection on the Plane

Since the main carrier at RFD is the low-cost airline Allegiant Air, comfort on board is an additional option.

• Pay in Advance: The airline automatically assigns seats to passengers. If you are flying with family or friends and want to sit together, be sure to pay for seat selection when booking the ticket. It is practically impossible to change seats for free at the check-in counter.
• Best Seats: Aircraft here are small. If you want to exit faster after landing, choose seats in the front part of the cabin, although they cost more.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and What isn't

This is the most important point for budget saving. Read the rules of your tariff carefully.

• "Personal Item" vs Carry-on: On Allegiant, you can take only one "personal item" (backpack, laptop bag, handbag) on board for free, which must fit under the seat in front. Its dimensions are strictly limited (usually 17x33x40 cm).
• Full Carry-on: For a small suitcase (carry-on) that goes in the overhead locker, you must pay. Do this online in advance — the price at the airport will be significantly higher (sometimes up to 75 dollars).
• Size Check: Calibrators (measuring frames) stand at the gates. If your bag does not fit in the frame, you will be forced to check it in as luggage with a surcharge.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Rockford is a "point-to-point" airport; there are practically no connecting flights of a single airline here. If your route involves a transfer to an international flight at another airport, for example, at O'Hare, consider the following:

• Logistics: Van Galder buses run between Rockford and O'Hare. Allow at least 4–5 hours for the transfer between flights (the journey takes 1.5–2 hours + time for re-screening at the large airport).
• Luggage: Airlines in Rockford do not check luggage through to the final destination if the next flight departs from another airport. You will have to collect your suitcases and take them with you on the bus.

Customs Control

When arriving on an international flight (usually charters from Mexico or the Caribbean), you will pass border control in a special zone on the lower level.

• Prohibitions: Strict phytosanitary norms apply in the USA. It is categorically forbidden to import fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, seeds, and plants. Even a single apple forgotten in a backpack can lead to a fine of several hundred dollars.
• Declaration: Answer officers' questions honestly and declare cash amounts over 10,000 dollars.

How to Save Time and Money

• Water: Do not buy expensive water before security. Take an empty reusable bottle with you — in the "secure area" there are fountains where you can fill it for free.
• Food: The choice of food in the terminal is limited. To avoid overpaying and to eat what you like, bring sandwiches or snacks with you. TSA rules allow solid food to be brought through.
• Transfer: Buy bus tickets to Chicago online on the carrier's website — this guarantees a seat and is often cheaper than buying from the driver.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

Delays happen, and in a small airport, they are felt more acutely due to a lack of entertainment.

• Preparation: Download films, books, or games to your devices in advance. Wi-Fi at the airport is good, but there may not be enough power sockets for everyone during peak hours — bring a power bank.
• Actions: If the flight is significantly delayed or cancelled, do not stand in the queue for the agent's counter. It is faster to call the airline's call centre or use the chat in their mobile app.
• Comfort: If the wait extends overnight, ask staff about discounts at nearby hotels (e.g., Hampton Inn), as sleeping in the terminal is not very comfortable — the seats have armrests that prevent lying down.