Chicago Executive Airport (PWK / KPWK) – Your Private Jet Gateway to Chicago and the North Shore
Chicago Executive Airport (PWK) is one of the top private aviation gateways in the Midwest, offering fast, exclusive access to the Chicago metropolitan area and the upscale suburbs of the North Shore. Located just 18 miles north of downtown Chicago in Wheeling, Illinois, PWK is a preferred hub for business executives, VIP travelers, and high-net-worth individuals seeking a convenient and stress-free alternative to O’Hare or Midway.
With 24/7 operations, dedicated FBOs, and world-class service, Chicago Executive Airport provides private jet passengers with a premium travel experience—delivering speed, security, and sophistication from the tarmac to the city.
Airport Overview
Formerly known as Palwaukee Municipal Airport, Chicago Executive Airport (PWK) is the third-busiest airport in Illinois and one of the most important general aviation facilities in the Midwest. Jointly owned by the Village of Wheeling and the City of Prospect Heights, PWK is ideal for those seeking direct access to Chicago’s northern suburbs, major corporate headquarters, and nearby luxury residences.
PWK is well-equipped to handle a high volume of private jet traffic, with three runways, full-service FBOs, U.S. Customs on-site, and ample ramp and hangar space. It’s a popular choice for domestic and international travelers looking to bypass the congestion of Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
Chicago Executive Airport Technical Data
- IATA Code: PWK
- ICAO Code: KPWK
- Operating Hours: 24/7
- Longest Runway: 5,001 ft. (1,524 m)
- Elevation: 647 ft.
- Port of Entry: Yes (U.S. Customs & Border Protection on-site)
- Address: 1020 S. Plant Road, Wheeling, IL 60090, USA
- Coordinates: 42.1142° N, 87.9015° W
- Access: ~35–45 minutes by car to downtown Chicago; ~10–20 minutes to Northbrook, Glenview, and Lake Forest
Why Fly Private to Chicago Executive Airport (PWK)
Fast, Uncongested Operations
Chicago Executive Airport (PWK) offers a more relaxed environment compared to Chicago’s major commercial hubs. Avoid long taxi lines, air traffic delays, and crowded terminals.
Prime Location for North Suburbs
PWK is the closest airport to Chicago’s North Shore, ideal for travelers visiting corporate campuses, universities, country clubs, and affluent communities.
VIP Privacy & Discretion
FBOs at PWK provide private lounges, direct tarmac access, and discreet boarding procedures—trusted by celebrities, sports teams, and Fortune 500 executives.
Top-Tier Business Jet Services
With U.S. Customs, heated hangars, concierge service, and 24/7 availability, PWK caters perfectly to high-performance business jet operations.
Private Jet Charter Services at PWK with Centurion Jets
Centurion Jets offers luxury private jet charter services to and from Chicago Executive Airport, combining elite service with maximum efficiency.
- On-Demand Flights: Need to depart within hours? Our 24/7 team can arrange flights on short notice.
- Full Concierge Support: From ground transfers and hotel bookings to inflight meals and security coordination, we handle every detail.
- Custom Flight Planning: Direct routing to destinations across the U.S., Canada, and beyond—tailored to your business or leisure schedule.
- Helicopter Connections: We can arrange transfers to downtown Chicago heliports or remote properties across Illinois and neighboring states.
Popular Private Jet Routes from PWK
PWK’s central U.S. location makes it a strategic launch point for domestic business and leisure travel, as well as regional and international charters.
Popular Domestic Routes:
- PWK to Teterboro (TEB) – ~2 hours
- PWK to Miami (OPF) – ~3 hours
- PWK to Los Angeles (VNY) – ~4 hours
- PWK to Aspen (ASE) – ~3.5 hours
- PWK to Dallas (DAL) – ~2.5 hours
Popular International Routes:
- PWK to Toronto (YYZ) – ~1.5 hours
- PWK to Montreal (YUL) – ~2 hours
- PWK to Nassau, Bahamas (NAS) – ~3.5 hours
- PWK to Cancun, Mexico (CUN) – ~4.5 hours
- PWK to London (LTN or LBG) – via long-range jet (~8 hours)
Aircraft Options Available at PWK
Centurion Jets provides access to every class of private aircraft, with expert recommendations based on your route, passenger count, and preferences.
- Turboprops & VLJs: Ideal for short hops to Michigan, Wisconsin, or Indiana
- Light Jets: Popular for Midwest and East Coast business travel
- Midsize Jets: Perfect for cross-country travel in enhanced comfort
- Super Midsize Jets: Great for nonstop flights from Chicago to the West Coast or Mexico
- Heavy & Ultra-Long-Range Jets: For nonstop global connections—PWK supports customs clearance for international departures and arrivals
Nearby Luxury Hotels & Attractions
Chicago Executive Airport (PWK) places you within easy reach of both downtown Chicago and the upscale North Shore region.
Luxury Accommodations:
- The Peninsula Chicago
- Waldorf Astoria Chicago
- Four Seasons Hotel Chicago
- Deer Path Inn (Lake Forest)
- Renaissance Chicago North Shore
Business & Leisure:
- Meetings in the Loop, River North, and West Loop
- Golf at Conway Farms Golf Club and Glen View Club
- Shopping along Michigan Avenue or Northbrook Court
- Cultural visits to The Art Institute of Chicago, Millennium Park, and Ravinia Festival
Airport Amenities at Chicago Executive (PWK)
- Two full-service FBOs: Signature Flight Support and Atlantic Aviation
- On-site U.S. Customs for international arrivals
- Heated hangars, aircraft maintenance, and refueling
- Private executive lounges and conference rooms
- Direct car-to-jet boarding and valet parking
- Helicopter access and crew support facilities
- 24/7 airport operations and FBO service
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I fly internationally from Chicago Executive Airport by private jet?
Yes. PWK has on-site U.S. Customs & Border Protection for international arrivals and departures.
Q: How far is PWK from downtown Chicago?
About 35–45 minutes by car, depending on traffic. Helicopter transfers can reduce that to under 15 minutes.
Q: Can large jets operate at PWK?
Yes. PWK accommodates aircraft up to the size of Gulfstreams, Globals, and Falcons—ideal for long-range business travel.
Q: Are FBO services available 24/7?
Absolutely. Both FBOs offer round-the-clock service, including fueling, catering, and concierge assistance.
Q: Is PWK a good alternative to O’Hare (ORD)?
Yes. PWK is far more convenient for private jet travelers looking to avoid the congestion of major commercial airports.
Fly to Chicago in Style with Centurion Jets
Whether you’re flying in for business in the Loop, a private golf getaway in Lake Forest, or a high-level meeting in Evanston, Chicago Executive Airport is your closest and most exclusive option. With Centurion Jets, your private jet experience is tailored to perfection—offering speed, discretion, and unmatched comfort.
Contact Centurion Jets today to charter your private flight to or from PWK and elevate your travel to a new level of excellence.
