Singapore Airlines, known globally for its luxury service and attention to detail, offers one of the most elegant long-haul flight experiences from the United States to Asia. At Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), the airline operates out of Terminal 5, the airport’s main international terminal. Whether you’re flying to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) or connecting to other destinations in Asia, Australia, or the Middle East, the Singapore Airlines ORD Terminal experience is designed to provide efficiency, sophistication, and a premium gateway to your journey.

This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about flying with Singapore Airlines from ORD Terminal 5 — from check-in and security to lounges, shopping, dining, and onboard expectations.

Singapore Airlines launched its direct Chicago to Singapore service in 2018. This ultra-long-haul route connects the U.S. Midwest to Southeast Asia with one of the world’s longest nonstop flights. Operating from Terminal 5 at ORD, the airline utilizes Chicago as a key point in its North American network.

Terminal 5, recently expanded and renovated, now features a more modern design, enhanced passenger flow, and upgraded facilities, making it a fitting departure point for a five-star airline like Singapore Airlines.

Check-In Experience

Upon entering Terminal 5’s departures level, travelers will find the Singapore Airlines check-in area well-marked and professionally staffed. The airline provides:

• Dedicated counters for Suites, First, and Business Class passengers
• Priority check-in lanes for KrisFlyer Elite Gold and Star Alliance Gold members
• Ample counters for Economy Class passengers
• Assistance with baggage check, document verification, and special services
• Self-service kiosks for quicker processing (availability may vary)

Singapore Airlines is known for its ground staff professionalism. Expect courteous, multilingual agents who assist with everything from seat selection to meal preferences.

Travelers are encouraged to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure, especially for international flights requiring passport and visa checks.

Security and Immigration

Security screening at Terminal 5 is equipped with TSA PreCheck and CLEAR, making the experience faster for enrolled passengers. Lines tend to move quickly, particularly outside of peak evening hours when many international flights depart.

Once through security, passengers enter the newly renovated concourse of Terminal 5, which now features:

• More natural lighting
• Spacious walking areas
• Enhanced signage for easy navigation
• Expanded gate seating areas with USB and AC charging outlets

Lounges and Relaxation

Singapore Airlines premium passengers have access to Star Alliance-affiliated lounges at Terminal 5. These may include:

1. SAS Lounge (Scandinavian Airlines)

Located near the departure gates, this lounge is available to Business Class passengers and Star Alliance Gold members. Amenities include:

• Comfortable seating and quiet work areas
• A variety of food and beverage options
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Restrooms and reading materials

2. Air France/KLM Lounge or Swissport Lounge (subject to agreement and availability)

While Singapore Airlines does not yet have a dedicated lounge at ORD, the Star Alliance network ensures that premium travelers still enjoy a refined pre-boarding experience. The lounges provide a tranquil space to recharge, dine, or relax before embarking on the long-haul journey to Asia.

Dining Options in Terminal 5

Terminal 5 at ORD has undergone a dining renaissance, offering a curated mix of sit-down restaurants and grab-and-go outlets. Whether you’re looking for quick snacks or full meals, the options are diverse and high-quality.

Popular choices include:

• Big Bowl — A favorite for fresh Asian fare, including noodles and rice bowls
• Tocco — Italian cuisine with pasta and wine in a bistro-style setting
• Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi Bar — High-end seafood and sushi offerings
• Taco Joint — Casual Mexican food with burritos, tacos, and margaritas
• Burger Federation — Classic American-style burgers and fries

For beverages and coffee, Starbucks, Hudson Café, and wine bars like Vino Volo offer relaxing spots to unwind with a drink.

Shopping and Passenger Amenities

Shopping in Terminal 5 reflects the international traveler’s needs, with a focus on duty-free items, travel accessories, and last-minute essentials. Some highlights include:

• Duty-Free Americas — Luxury perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, and chocolates
• Tech on the Go — Travel electronics, headphones, and adapters
• iStore — Apple products and accessories
• XpresSpa — Mini spa treatments and massage services
• Hudson News — Books, magazines, snacks, and gifts

In addition, Terminal 5 offers free high-speed Wi-Fi, family restrooms, nursing suites, and pet relief areas for those traveling with animals.

Boarding and Gate Experience

Singapore Airlines’ boarding gates are typically located toward the mid or west section of Terminal 5. Boarding is highly organized and announced clearly, with groupings based on cabin class and frequent flyer status.

Priority boarding is given to:

• Suites and Business Class passengers
• Star Alliance Gold members
• Families with children and special assistance travelers
• Premium Economy and Economy boarding by zone

Boarding agents are helpful, and multilingual announcements ensure clarity for the airline’s global clientele. Gate areas are spacious with ample seating, USB ports, and flight status screens.

In-Flight Experience: ORD to SIN

Once onboard, passengers can expect one of the most refined long-haul experiences in the sky.

Suites & Business Class (Qsuite Equivalent)

• Private cabins or semi-private pods with lie-flat beds
• Gourmet, multi-course meals with wine pairings
• Luxurious amenity kits and noise-canceling headphones
• Wi-Fi access and KrisWorld entertainment system
• Personalized service and bedding

Premium Economy

• Spacious seats with more legroom and recline
• Enhanced meal service
• Dedicated check-in and boarding zone
• Larger in-flight entertainment screen

Economy Class

• Ergonomically designed seats
• Generous meals and beverages
• Over 1,000 entertainment options via KrisWorld
• Complimentary amenities including blankets and pillows

Arrival at Singapore Changi Airport

Passengers from ORD arrive at Singapore Changi Airport, consistently ranked as the world’s best airport. With fast immigration processing, easy transfers, and luxurious amenities like the Jewel shopping complex and free transit tours, your arrival experience in Singapore is just as polished as your departure from Chicago.

Final Thoughts

The Singapore Airlines ORD Terminal experience at Chicago O’Hare is a seamless blend of modern amenities, luxury services, and high-efficiency processes. Terminal 5’s international focus aligns perfectly with Singapore Airlines’ global standards, offering a smooth pre-flight experience and a perfect introduction to the airline’s celebrated hospitality.

From streamlined check-in and Star Alliance lounge access to premium shopping, fine dining, and organized boarding, every aspect of the terminal experience is designed to match the elegance and excellence of flying Singapore Airlines. Whether you’re traveling for business, leisure, or a long-haul connection, flying from Chicago with Singapore Airlines guarantees a world-class journey from the ground up.