Viva Aerobus ORD Terminal

Chicago O'Hare International Airport's Terminal 5 is where Viva Aerobus is based (ORD). Travelers can use self-service kiosks or the Viva Aerobus ORD Terminal counters to check in. The airline provides luggage drop and online check-in. In addition to duty-free shops and retail establishments, Terminal 5 offers food alternatives like Starbucks and Garrett Popcorn. When it comes to checked baggage, Viva Aerobus has a pay-per-bag policy with weight and size restrictions. Travelers should budget time for U.S. Customs and TSA security checks. Taxis, ride-sharing, and public transportation via the CTA Blue Line are all alternatives for ground transportation.

Viva Aerobus at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD): A Comprehensive Guide

Viva Aerobus is a low-cost airline based in Mexico, providing affordable travel options between major cities in Mexico and the United States. As one of Mexico's largest carriers, Viva Aerobus has become a popular choice for travelers flying between these countries. If you're flying with Viva Aerobus from Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), this guide will provide all the essential information regarding check-in procedures, baggage policies, airport amenities, and more.

1. Viva Aerobus at Chicago O'Hare (ORD) Terminal

Viva Aerobus operates out of Terminal 5 at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Terminal 5 is the primary international terminal at O'Hare, handling a variety of airlines, including Viva Aerobus, and offering many services for both U.S. and international travelers.

Check-In Information at ORD

Online Check-In: Viva Aerobus offers online check-in through their website or mobile app. Online check-in opens 24 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure and allows you to select seats, add baggage, and receive a digital boarding pass.
Airport Check-In: If you prefer to check in at the airport, you can do so at the Viva Aerobus check-in counters located in Terminal 5. Check-in counters are typically open 3 hours before the scheduled departure for international flights. It’s recommended to arrive early, especially during peak travel times, to avoid any last-minute stress.
Self-Service Kiosks: Viva Aerobus also provides self-service kiosks in Terminal 5 for faster check-in, allowing passengers to print boarding passes and bag tags, as well as select seats for their flights.
Baggage Check: If you have checked baggage, you can drop it off at the designated counters after completing check-in. Be sure to verify the weight and size of your baggage to avoid additional fees (see the baggage section below for details).

2. Baggage Policy for Viva Aerobus at ORD

Viva Aerobus, like many low-cost carriers, operates a strict baggage policy to keep ticket prices affordable. Passengers are permitted both carry-on and checked baggage, but the rules vary depending on your fare type and specific needs.

Carry-On Baggage

Standard Allowance: Viva Aerobus allows one free carry-on bag with a maximum size of 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm (22 in x 16 in x 8 in) and a weight of up to 10 kg (22 lbs).
Personal Item: In addition to your carry-on, you may bring one personal item, such as a purse, backpack, or laptop bag, which must fit under the seat in front of you.

Note: If your carry-on exceeds the size or weight limits, you may be asked to check it in at the gate and pay an additional fee.

Checked Baggage

Viva Aerobus operates a pay-per-bag system for checked baggage, meaning you must pay for each checked bag based on the weight and number of bags. Here are the key details:

Basic Fare (No Checked Baggage): Passengers flying on the Basic Fare (the lowest class of service) are not entitled to free checked baggage. You’ll need to purchase checked baggage in advance or at the airport.
Checked Bag Size and Weight: Each checked bag must adhere to a weight limit of up to 25 kg (55 lbs) per bag. The total combined size (length + width + height) must not exceed 158 cm (62 in).
Fees:
- For Domestic Flights (Mexico): The fees for checked baggage typically range from $20 USD to $50 USD per bag, depending on the weight and when you pay (pre-purchase or at the airport).
- For International Flights (U.S. to Mexico): The fees for checked baggage range from $30 USD to $60 USD per bag. It's cheaper to pay for checked bags in advance when booking online or during online check-in.

Additional Fees: If your checked bag exceeds the weight or size limit, expect to pay excess baggage fees. This can cost an additional $100 USD or more per oversized or overweight item.

Sports Equipment and Special Items

Viva Aerobus allows passengers to check sports equipment such as golf clubs, skis, and bicycles, as well as special items like musical instruments, but these may incur extra fees.

Golf Bags, Skis, Bicycles: These are often treated as oversized baggage and may incur an additional charge of $50 USD to $100 USD depending on the size and route.
Musical Instruments: Smaller musical instruments can be carried as a personal item, while larger instruments like guitars or cellos must be checked. Fees for musical instruments can vary, so it’s recommended to confirm the specifics with Viva Aerobus.

Pets

Viva Aerobus allows small pets to travel in the cabin on most flights for an additional fee. Pets must fit in a carrier under the seat, and the total weight (pet plus carrier) cannot exceed 10 kg (22 lbs). There is a fee for in-cabin pets, generally around $50 USD per flight segment. Larger pets must be transported as cargo.

3. Security and Immigration at ORD

Traveling internationally from Terminal 5 at ORD requires going through both TSA security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) before your flight departs.

TSA Security: All passengers must go through TSA screening before entering the departure area. You’ll need to remove your shoes, belts, and electronics from your bag. If you are enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you can take advantage of the expedited security line.
U.S. Customs and Immigration (for International Flights): For U.S.-bound flights, you will complete U.S. Customs and Immigration procedures before boarding your Viva Aerobus flight. Ensure that you have all necessary travel documents, including your passport and any visas if applicable.

4. Dining and Shopping Options at Terminal 5

Terminal 5 at O'Hare is a bustling international terminal with a variety of restaurants, shops, and amenities to keep you comfortable before your Viva Aerobus flight.

Dining

There are many dining options in Terminal 5, ranging from quick snacks to sit-down meals. Some popular spots include:

Garrett Popcorn Shops: A Chicago favorite for tasty popcorn.
Starbucks: For a quick coffee and snack before your flight.
The Local Chicago: A sit-down restaurant offering locally inspired dishes.
Max & Leo’s: A deli-style restaurant serving sandwiches and fresh meals.

Most food outlets offer quick options, but if you have a longer layover, you’ll find comfortable restaurants to relax in.

Shopping

There are many duty-free shops, fashion boutiques, and convenience stores available in Terminal 5:

Duty-Free Stores: For last-minute shopping for souvenirs, luxury goods, or alcohol.
Tech and Gift Stores: Perfect for picking up electronics, books, or gifts.
Travel Accessories: Shops like Hudson News sell travel essentials like headphones, neck pillows, and snacks.

5. Viva Aerobus Lounge Access

Unfortunately, Viva Aerobus does not have its own dedicated lounge at O'Hare. However, passengers can use the Airline Lounge at Terminal 5, depending on their flight class or membership program.

Airline Lounge Access: If you’re flying in Business Class or Premium Service with Viva Aerobus, you may be eligible for lounge access. Alternatively, you can access lounges at O'Hare through Priority Pass or other membership programs.

Lounges offer a more comfortable space to relax with snacks, beverages, free Wi-Fi, and more.

6. Ground Transportation at ORD

Chicago O'Hare offers several options for getting to and from the airport:

Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available outside Terminal 5.
Airport Shuttle: Various hotel shuttle services and shared ride options are available in the arrivals area.
Public Transit: The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates a Blue Line train that connects O'Hare to downtown Chicago, offering an affordable option for travelers.
Rental Cars: Car rental services are available at O'Hare through companies like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. Rental cars can be picked up from the Rental Car Center via the Airport Transit System.

7. Flight Connections at ORD

For passengers connecting to another flight after arriving at ORD, it's essential to check the gate information and follow signage to your next terminal. Since Viva Aerobus operates out of Terminal 5, connecting to flights in other terminals may require passing through security again. Be sure to allow enough time for this process when planning your connection.

Conclusion

Flying with Viva Aerobus at Chicago O'Hare Airport offers a convenient and affordable travel option to Mexico and other destinations. With key information on check-in, baggage policies, airport amenities, and more, this guide helps ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at ORD. Whether you're flying for business or leisure, knowing the ins and outs of Viva Aerobus’ operations at O'Hare will make your travel experience more enjoyable. Safe travels!