DuPage Airport

While the famous O'Hare hums with an endless stream of travellers, DuPage Airport offers a completely different experience — an atmosphere of exceptional tranquillity and prestige. This is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway for private aviation and business jets, situated in a picturesque suburb. Here, your flight begins not with queues, but with views of manicured fairways, as DuPage is one of the few airports in the world to feature a championship golf course within its grounds.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

DuPage Airport (DPA) is the ideal alternative to busy commercial hubs for those who value their time and comfort. The main highlight of the complex is the Prairie Landing Golf Club — a world-class golf course located right on the airport territory, allowing travellers to spend time playing a round immediately after landing.

The airport specialises in serving business aviation and offers VIP-level services. Thanks to the presence of U.S. Customs, DuPage is capable of accepting international private flights, ensuring rapid processing of formalities without unnecessary waiting. Four runways allow for the accommodation of various aircraft types, from small planes to large corporate liners.

• Official Airport Website: www.dupageairport.com
• Passenger Support and Inquiry Service (DuPage Flight Center): +1 630-208-5600 or +1 800-208-5690 (operates 24/7)
• Airport Address: 2700 International Drive, West Chicago, IL 60185, USA
• Email: business@dupageairport.gov
• Administration Contacts (DuPage Airport Authority): +1 630-584-2211
• Lost and Found Information: It is recommended to contact the main reception desk at the Flight Center or call +1 630-208-5600
• Airport Social Media: Current news and updates are published on official pages on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube (search for DuPage Airport Authority)

Since DuPage Airport (DPA) serves primarily private and business aviation, transport logistics here are arranged differently than in major commercial hubs. There are no regular shuttles or mass bus routes to the terminals. The main focus is on comfort, a bespoke approach, and the use of private vehicles.

By Car and Taxi

The most convenient way to reach the airport from central Chicago is by car. The airport is located approximately 47 kilometres west of downtown. The main route follows the I-290 West (Eisenhower Expressway), transitioning into the I-88 West. Travel time depends heavily on traffic: during quiet hours it takes about 50–60 minutes, but during peak hours the journey can extend to 1.5 hours.

To book a ride, you can use popular ride-hailing services (Uber, Lyft) or book an executive class transfer. The estimated cost of a trip from central Chicago (The Loop) in a standard taxi or Uber is from 60 to 90 USD, though prices vary based on demand. For VIP passengers, Flight Center staff can arrange for a limousine to drive directly to the aircraft.

Public Transport

Reaching DuPage exclusively by public transport is quite challenging as there are no direct routes to the terminal. However, there is a combined option for budget-conscious travellers or those wishing to avoid city exit traffic:

• Train (Metra): From the Ogilvie Transportation Center in downtown Chicago, take the Union Pacific West (UP-W) line.
• You need to alight at West Chicago station. The train journey takes about 60 minutes and costs approximately 8–10 USD.
• From West Chicago station to the airport is about 5–7 km. This distance must be covered by taxi or the local Pace bus (routes can be irregular, so a taxi is preferable).

Car Rental

Representatives of major rental companies, such as Enterprise and Hertz, operate on the airport grounds. A unique feature of renting at DuPage is the high level of service: the vehicle can often be delivered directly to the aircraft steps or to the parking lot in front of the General Aviation terminal. It is recommended to book a car in advance through your broker or the airport support service.

Parking

Unlike giant complexes like O’Hare, parking at DuPage is organised for maximum convenience for business aviation clients. Parking zones are provided in immediate proximity to the Flight Center building. Typically, for short stays or for passengers of private flights, parking is provided free of charge or at reduced rates, and spaces are always available.

Other Airports Nearby

If your itinerary involves a transfer to commercial flights or you are looking for alternative arrival options in the region, consider the following aviation hubs located at various distances from Chicago:

• O'Hare International Airport (ORD) — 29.7 km. The region's largest hub with flights worldwide.
• Midway International Airport (MDW) — 43.8 km. A convenient airport for domestic flights, located closer to the city centre.
• General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) — 119.1 km. Located in the neighbouring state of Wisconsin, but often used as an alternative to Chicago airports.
• South Bend International Airport (SBN) — 162.5 km. A small regional airport east of Chicago.

Terminal Structure: DuPage Flight Center

Unlike massive passenger hubs with their confusing terminal systems and endless corridors, DuPage Airport (DPA) is arranged as simply and logically as possible. There is no familiar division into Terminal A, B, or C. All passenger flow and crew services are concentrated in one main building — the DuPage Flight Center. This is a modern complex of approximately 3,000 square metres, functioning as a General Aviation Terminal.

The complex structure includes:

• Main Lobby: A spacious atrium with panoramic windows overlooking the airfield and golf courses. Relaxation areas and a concierge desk are located here.
• Service Areas (FBO): Counters for pilot registration and arranging aircraft services.
• Lounge Areas: Several comfortable waiting zones with soft furnishings, televisions, and workstations.
• Conference Rooms: Facilities for holding business meetings directly at the airport.
• Customs Control Zone: A separate sector for processing passengers arriving on international flights.

Departure and Arrival Zones

At DuPage, the concepts of "departure zone" and "arrival zone" are not separated by physical barriers or different floors as in commercial airports. Everything happens on one level. Passengers pass through the main entrance directly into the lobby, from where they are escorted directly to the aircraft on the apron. For arriving guests, the path is just as simple: from the aircraft steps, they enter either the comfortable terminal lobby or directly into an awaiting vehicle.

Terminal Features and Service

The DuPage terminal is designed to resemble the lobby of a five-star hotel rather than a station. The emphasis here is on privacy and speed of service. Key features include:

• 24/7 Operation: The terminal is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, allowing you to schedule departures at any convenient time.
• Culinary Service: Fresh Starbucks coffee, signature cookies, and light snacks are always available in the lobby for guests.
• Crew Amenities: Separate rest rooms (Snooze Rooms), showers, and a flight planning hall are provided for pilots, allowing passengers peace of mind regarding their team's condition.
• No Transfers: Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to use shuttles or travelators. The entire journey from the building entrance to the aircraft seat takes mere minutes on foot.

Check-in and Pre-flight Screening

The main advantage of DuPage is the absence of queues and exhausting TSA security checks characteristic of regular lines. The time for formalities here is kept to a minimum:

• Arrival Time: It is recommended to arrive at the airport just 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This is sufficient to meet the captain, hand over luggage, and proceed to the aircraft.
• Screening: For domestic flights, the screening procedure is practically non-existent in the traditional sense (no removal of shoes or scanning of liquids), unless stipulated by specific security rules of a particular charter.
• Luggage: Luggage is not put on a belt but handed to staff directly before boarding and loaded into the cargo hold in your presence.

Navigation Recommendations

Navigating DuPage Airport is very easy. Follow the signs for "Flight Center" or "General Aviation" when entering the grounds. Parking is located in immediate proximity to the building entrance. If you are arriving on an international flight, the aircraft will be directed to the U.S. Customs area located in the same complex. Flight Center staff (Line Service Technicians) always meet aircraft and guide passengers, so it is impossible to get lost here.

From Farm Fields to Navy Aviation

The history of DuPage Airport dates back to the "Golden Age" of aviation, in 1927. What is today an elite centre for business aviation began as a modest airfield on agricultural land, organised by two local enthusiasts. In the early years, these were simple dirt strips accepting light biplanes and mail planes. However, the airport's fate changed dramatically with the onset of World War II.

In 1941, the facility was requisitioned by the US Navy. The airfield became a vital strategic point: military pilots were trained here, and Howard aircraft (model DGA-15), manufactured nearby, were tested. It was the military period that transformed the amateur field into a professional aviation facility with developed infrastructure.

Creation of the Authority and the "Buffer Zone" Strategy

A key milestone in modern history was the creation of the DuPage Airport Authority in 1974. The new governing body faced a typical problem of growing metropolises: residential development began to encroach closely on the airfield, threatening noise complaints and the impossibility of further development. The management made a far-sighted decision: to begin aggressively purchasing adjacent lands, creating a "buffer zone".

To ensure these vast territories did not lie idle but brought benefit, the Prairie Landing golf course was opened on the purchased lands in 1994. This became a unique precedent in US aviation history: creating a world-class sports facility as a method of protecting the airport from urban encroachment.

Reconstruction and Modern Status

At the beginning of the 21st century, DuPage underwent massive modernisation, firmly cementing its status as a premium-class business port:

• A new control tower was erected, equipped to the latest FAA standards.
• Runways were lengthened and reinforced. The main runway reached a length of nearly 2,300 metres, allowing it to accept heavy transcontinental business jets, such as the Boeing Business Jet or Gulfstream G650.
• The modern DuPage Flight Center terminal was built, becoming the hallmark of the complex.

Interesting Facts and Achievements

• Impressive Size: Thanks to the land expansion strategy, DuPage Airport occupies a vast territory — about 2,800 acres. This makes it one of the largest airports by area in the state of Illinois, second in the region only to the giant O’Hare and Rockford Airport. Notably, DuPage is physically significantly larger than the well-known Midway passenger airport, which covers less than 1,000 acres.
• Global Traffic: In the mid-20th century, DuPage briefly held the title of the busiest general aviation airport in the world by number of take-offs and landings.
• Presidential Visits: Due to its long runway, high level of security, and seclusion, DuPage is periodically used to receive government support aircraft during visits by US leaders to Chicago.

The infrastructure of DuPage Airport (DPA) fully corresponds to its status as a premium hub for private aviation. Here you will not find noisy shopping galleries or overcrowded food courts. Instead, passengers are offered service tailored to individual needs, speed, and exceptional comfort.

Restaurants and Dining

The gastronomic experience at DuPage differs from the standard airport selection. In the main terminal lobby, guests are offered freshly brewed Starbucks coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as signature fresh cookies and popcorn around the clock and free of charge. This creates a homely atmosphere immediately upon arrival.

For a full lunch or dinner, you do not need to leave the airport grounds. Within walking distance (or a minute's ride on a golf cart) is the Prairie Landing Grill — a restaurant at the golf club. Here you can enjoy American cuisine with views of the picturesque fairways. Additionally, airport staff can help arrange the delivery of elite catering directly to your aircraft before departure.

Business Services and Connectivity

Since a significant portion of DuPage passengers visit Chicago for business purposes, the airport provides ideal conditions for work:

• Wi-Fi and Tech: High-speed free Wi-Fi is available throughout the Flight Center. The lobby and lounge areas feature numerous sockets and ports for charging gadgets.
• Conference Rooms: The airport has its own conference rooms equipped with audiovisual equipment. This allows negotiations to be held immediately after landing, without spending time travelling into the city. It is best to book meeting rooms in advance through the administration.

Relaxation Zones and VIP Service

The concept of a "VIP lounge" applies to the entire DuPage terminal. There is no division into classes here: every guest receives top-level service. The spacious lobby is furnished with leather furniture, featuring a fireplace and large televisions. The atmosphere is conducive to quiet waiting or informal conversation. For crews and pilots, separate closed rest areas with recliner chairs for sleeping (Snooze Rooms) are provided.

Hotels and Accommodation

There is no hotel directly within the terminal building, but thanks to its location in a developed suburb, the choice of accommodation is very wide. Airport staff have agreements with the best local hotels and can assist with booking at corporate rates. Popular options nearby (within a 5–10 minute drive):

• Hilton Garden Inn St. Charles — a comfortable hotel popular with business travellers.
• Courtyard by Marriott Chicago St. Charles — a convenient option for short stops.
• Hampton Inn & Suites — a hotel frequently chosen by aircraft crews.

Financial and Medical Services

There may be an ATM in the terminal for cash withdrawals, but there are no full bank branches or currency exchange points here. It is recommended to arrange for cash (USD) in advance or use banks in the city of West Chicago. There is no medical centre with doctors at the airport, but staff are trained in first aid, and the city's emergency services are minutes away.

Passengers with Children and Limited Mobility

DuPage Airport is designed with ADA accessibility requirements in mind. The single-storey layout of the terminal and the absence of long walkways make it exceptionally convenient for passengers with reduced mobility. Staff are always ready to personally escort a guest from the car to the aircraft steps, providing necessary assistance during boarding.

There are no specialised playrooms for children, but the spacious waiting hall and the opportunity to watch planes through panoramic windows usually fascinate young travellers. The calm environment without crowds and noise makes staying with children much less stressful than in major airports.

Unlike major commercial hubs with endless rows of fast food, DuPage Airport (DPA) offers a more intimate and high-quality approach to dining. There are no noisy food courts here, but passengers certainly won't go hungry. Options range from complimentary treats in the lobby to a full meal in a restaurant overlooking the airfield.

Quick Bite in the Terminal: Kitty Hawk Café

Located right inside the main DuPage Flight Center building is the cosy Kitty Hawk Café. This is the ideal place for those wanting a snack before departure without leaving the terminal. The establishment focuses on freshness and speed of service.

• Menu: The assortment is based on hot paninis, homemade soups of the day, and various fresh salads. This is an excellent choice for a light and healthy lunch.
• Opening Hours: The café is open primarily on weekdays, catering to the business schedule of the airport's main clients.
• Location: Situated in the general terminal area, accessible to all guests and crews.

Hospitality Zone in the Lobby

The hallmark of DuPage remains the high level of service in the waiting area. Even if the café is closed or you don't have time to order, complimentary treats are always available for guests in the central atrium:

• Drinks: Freshly brewed coffee (Starbucks brand), hot tea, hot chocolate, and chilled water.
• Snacks: The airport is famous for its fresh popcorn and signature soft cookies, baked on-site and offered to everyone as a compliment.

Full Dining: McChesney's Pub & Grill

If your wait is more than an hour or you wish to enjoy a meal in a beautiful setting, it is worth visiting McChesney's Pub & Grill. It is located on the airport grounds in the clubhouse of the Prairie Landing golf course.

• Atmosphere: A cosy interior with a fireplace and a panoramic terrace offering magnificent views of the runways and the green hills of the golf club.
• Cuisine: Classic American and European cuisine. It is recommended to try their signature burgers, steaks, sandwiches, and grilled dishes.
• Prices: The average bill is 15–30 USD per person (Moderate level).
• How to Get There: The restaurant is in a neighbouring building. Flight Center staff will happily transport you there and back by golf cart or service vehicle in a couple of minutes.
• Opening Hours: The restaurant is usually open for lunch and dinner, but the schedule may change depending on the season (hours are often reduced in winter). It is best to check the current schedule at the terminal reception.

Dietary Requirements and Special Requests

The choice of dishes for guests with specific preferences at DuPage is quite flexible:

• Vegetarians: Kitty Hawk Café always offers vegetable salads and meat-free soups. McChesney's menu also features vegetarian options (pasta, side dishes, salads).
• Gluten-Free and Vegan: Many dishes in the restaurant can be adapted upon request (for example, a burger without a bun or salad without dressing). Staff are usually happy to accommodate guests.
• Halal and Kosher: Strictly Halal or Kosher certified kitchens are not available on the airport premises. Passengers observing strict religious dietary norms are strongly recommended to order specialised in-flight catering in advance.

In-Flight Catering

For passengers on private flights, ordering catering remains the primary option. DuPage Flight Center partners with leading Chicago restaurants and specialised aviation catering services. With advance notice (preferably 24 hours), any gastronomic requirements are available — from sushi to complex dietary menus. Food will be delivered and served to your aircraft steps exactly at departure time.

Recommendations for Travellers

If you arrive on a weekday and are in a hurry, pop into Kitty Hawk Café for a hot panini. If you have time, be sure to visit McChesney's Pub & Grill — it's not just food, but an opportunity to relax in a country club atmosphere. And don't forget to try the famous cookies in the lobby — a little DuPage tradition loved by all regular clients.

Travelling through DuPage Airport (DPA) differs radically from the usual experience at major commercial aviation hubs. Since the airport serves business and private aviation, its own rules of etiquette and logistics apply here. To ensure your departure goes as smoothly as possible, use the following recommendations.

Optimal Arrival Time

Forget the rule of "arriving 2–3 hours early". At DuPage, this would be a waste of time. For domestic private flights, the gold standard is arriving 15–20 minutes before the scheduled departure time. This is quite sufficient to meet with the FBO (ground handling operator) representatives, hand over luggage, and proceed to the aircraft. If you are flying internationally, add another 10–15 minutes for document checks.

Check-in and Security Control

Main tip: do not look for check-in counters and TSA security zones with metal detector frames — they do not exist here in the traditional sense. The procedure looks different:

• Upon arrival at the DuPage Flight Center, approach the Front Desk. State your tail number or the lead passenger's surname.
• You do not need to remove shoes, belts, or take laptops out of bags. If a check is conducted (at the aircraft owner's request), it happens quickly and discreetly.
• Keep your identification (passport or ID) to hand to show the aircraft captain before boarding.

Hand Luggage Allowances

In private aviation, the famous "100 ml rule" for liquids does not apply. You can bring water, favourite drinks, and toiletries in containers of any volume on board, provided they are securely packed. Also, there is a much more lenient attitude towards transporting pets in the cabin here, but this point must absolutely be agreed with your aviation broker in advance.

Tips on Seat Selection

The concept of "seat check-in" does not exist here. Seats in the business jet cabin are taken on a first-come basis. However, there is a nuance: if the aircraft is small, the pilot may ask you to take a specific seat to maintain the correct centre of gravity (weight balance) of the aircraft. Follow the crew's instructions — this is a matter of safety.

Customs Control

If you are arriving at DuPage from abroad, the border crossing procedure will be maximally comfortable. The airport has its own U.S. Customs service. The officer usually approaches the aircraft or invites passengers to a separate room in the terminal. There are no queues here, and the entire process takes mere minutes. The main rule: do not exit the aircraft until permitted by the customs officer.

Logistics for Transit Passengers

DuPage is often used as a convenient arrival point for Chicago, to then transfer to a long-haul commercial flight.

• The nearest international hub is O'Hare (ORD).
• Important: There is no air shuttle between DuPage and O'Hare. You will need to travel by car.
• Allow at least 1.5 hours for the transfer (taking into account potential traffic on Chicago roads) to reach the O'Hare terminal and undergo standard screening procedures there.

How to Save Time and Money

Although private aviation is not a cheap pleasure, there are options at DuPage that allow for savings:

• Free Parking: This is a huge advantage over O'Hare or Midway, where parking is expensive. At DuPage, you can leave your car for a long period for free or at a nominal price (check current conditions at reception).
• Free Ground Catering: Do not spend money buying coffee or water before leaving for the airport. In the terminal lobby, guests are offered unlimited drinks, fresh cookies, and light snacks.
• Group Transfer: If you are flying as a group, booking one limousine or minivan through the airport concierge service often works out better value and more convenient than ordering multiple Uber Black taxis.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay

If departure is delayed due to weather or technical reasons, do not worry — you are in one of the region's most comfortable airports:

• Ask staff to show you to a "Snooze Room" if you wish to take a nap.
• If the delay is lengthy (more than 2 hours) and it is daylight, staff can take you by golf cart to the Prairie Landing clubhouse, where you can have lunch in the restaurant or even play a round of golf to pass the time with pleasure.