Alaska Airlines from Midway International Airport to Kona

Oh, you've finally decided to trade the bustling streets of the Windy City for the tropical paradise of Kona, Hawaii and you're planning to fly Alaska from Midway International? An interesting choice, really. Just a typical day for the adventurous soul, right? In this piece, we'll take you through everything from layovers to in-flight services. Grab your pineapple-themed sunglasses and buckle up.

Just to get things straight, it’s surely no surprise that there aren't any direct flights between Midway International and Kona. I mean, even Santa doesn't do non-stop trips that far. You're looking at a layover somewhere along the way. But don't worry, your "romantic" midnight rendezvous with the grimy airport floor during your red-eye flight is totally part of the charm. It’s not like you had any deep sleep planned anyway.

Indeed, it's a race against time, quite literally. The optimal flight duration is just around 11 hours, for those magical unicorns who can jiggle their schedules perfectly. For the rest of us mere mortals, 14 to 15 hours is the more typical duration. Just think of all that extra time you'll have to enjoy the "gourmet" airplane food and those delightful airline restrooms!

Speaking of food, let's talk in-flight services. Alaska boasts of enticing meal options that include cuisine inspired by global flavors and made from fresh, local ingredients. It's just like you're dining in a Michelin-starred restaurant, cramped in a middle seat with a hundred other people. Luxury at its finest!

You may also be lucky enough during your epic layover to enjoy all the perks of a premium economy seat, if you're willing to splurge. It's all about the extra legroom and power outlets - you know, for when you absolutely need to charge that iPad to watch yet another rerun of Friends.

Oh, and remember how we said there isn't a direct flight? Brace yourself for the ultimate game of "flight connect-the-dots". Yes, Chicago to Seattle, then a little hop across the Pacific to Hawaii. Just a cakewalk, right?

Given this thrilling reality of flying, you're probably wondering about the best time to book your flight. Traditionally, studies suggest 4 to 5 weeks prior to your travel dates. But given you’re going around half the globe, I’d say booking as soon as you're done reading this masterpiece should be okay.

Now, since we're talking about Alaska Airlines, it's only fair that we drop a random fact about the actual state of Alaska. Fun fact: Did you know that despite being the largest state, more than half of Alaska's population resides in just one city - Anchorage? Makes you wonder where everyone else is, doesn’t it?

While we're at it, don’t forget to utilize the baggage allowance if you want to bring a palm tree back. You’ve got 40 pounds of free bag allowance for the economy class (I know just the right size of palm tree for you).

Before you go, remember that all mileage program members get extra perks. It's like the first-class experience, except with more bragging rights and possibly a free sandwich.

In the end, going from Midway to Kona via Alaska might not be the most glamorous journey you've ever embarked on. However, as you finally step off the plane onto the warm, sun-kissed tarmac of Kona’s airport, the feeling will be nothing short of magical. Well, as magical as after surviving a 14-hour flight can be.