More than three dozen families participated in a behind-the-scenes tour of O’Hare International Airport on March 11, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation. The event, called “Family Night,” was organized by the department along with American Airlines, the Transportation Security Administration, and Lurie Children’s Hospital.
The initiative aims to help families feel more comfortable navigating airports by providing information about amenities and security procedures before they travel. This is especially relevant as spring break approaches and many families prepare for trips.
“Navigating a busy airport with young children can be a challenge for even the most seasoned of travelers. Our Family Night initiative can help ease any concerns passengers may have while offering inside tips and information to make the journey a little more carefree,” said Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Michael McMurray. “Chicago’s airports are equipped with amenities and services to meet travelers’ needs, including several designed specifically for families. And with Spring Break upon us, this is the perfect opportunity for families to familiarize themselves with those offerings ahead of their trip.”
American Airlines supported the event by donating an aircraft for tours. “As spring break quickly approaches, we are proud to join our partners at CDA to give families more confidence to travel — because knowing what to expect makes a real difference for customers,” said American Airlines Vice President of ORD Operations Ben Humphrey. “As the #1 airline for family travel, this event is part of our commitment to our customers. Family Night helps parents and kids get acclimated to the airport experience so they feel prepared, supported and ready for their trip — and when they return, our Chicago team stands ready to care for them.”
During the evening, TSA staff provided an orientation on security screening processes tailored for parents traveling with children. Families toured Terminals 2 and 3 where guides pointed out family-friendly amenities such as lactation rooms and vending machines stocked with essentials like diapers. Representatives from Lurie Children’s Hospital offered advice on installing car seats on airplanes.
The group also visited Terminal 2’s Family Lounge where Travelers Aid Chicago Director John Ishu described available emergency supplies such as extra clothing and formula, while CDA ADA Compliance Officer Xochitl Rodriguez discussed accessible facilities including family restrooms.
The Chicago Department of Aviation funds its operations and enhancements without relying on local or state taxes, according to the official website (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doa.html). The department oversees O’Hare and Midway International Airports, which drive significant economic activity in the region according to its official website (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doa.html). It advances Chicago’s economy through responsible management of its airports (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doa.html), operates primarily in the Chicago area managing key airports that support regional growth (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doa.html), and recently collaborated with American Airlines to celebrate 70 years of passenger service at O’Hare International Airport (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doa.html).
McMurray served as commissioner during these initiatives according to information from the department’s official website (https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doa.html). Staff members indicated that additional Family Nights may be planned later this year.
