Chicago officials are considering selling naming rights and sponsorship opportunities for facilities at Midway and O’Hare International airports. The initiative, announced by the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), seeks to generate additional revenue for the city. The proposal would not affect the names of the airports themselves, which are linked to World War II history.
Michael McMurray, Chicago’s aviation commissioner, told the Chicago Sun-Times last month: “Nobody knows what it may reveal. This is not a procurement. There is no contract award or anything like that. We just want to explore and see what potential opportunities are out there — if any at all.”
The CDA has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to gauge corporate interest in sponsoring or acquiring naming rights for various airport facilities such as people movers, parking lots, family restrooms, concourses, bus stops, shuttle buses, and children’s recreation areas. Companies interested in participating must submit their responses by mid-February.
The plan comes amid ongoing concerns about crime in Chicago. Although crime rates have declined recently—including a decrease in murders—the city still recorded more homicides in 2025 than New York and Los Angeles despite having a smaller population. Some credit for the reduction in crime has been given to Cook County State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke and Chicago Police Superintendent Larry Snelling.
Homelessness remains an issue at O’Hare Airport. In 2022, the Haymarket Center counted 618 homeless individuals living at O’Hare; current estimates suggest between 100 and 200 people reside there now.
While some observers question whether companies will be willing to attach their brand names to facilities at these airports given concerns about crime and homelessness, city officials say they are only exploring possibilities at this stage.
As with previous proposals from City Hall—such as introducing a social media tax or reopening discussion on an employee head tax—it remains uncertain whether selling naming rights will move forward.
