O’Hare International Airport recorded the highest number of aircraft movements in the United States in 2025, according to preliminary data from the Federal Aviation Administration. The airport saw 857,392 takeoffs and landings last year, surpassing all other U.S. airports.
Mayor Brandon Johnson highlighted the significance of this achievement for Chicago’s economy and reputation. “This is more than a statistic, it’s a statement about Chicago’s momentum,” said Mayor Johnson. “From the runways of O’Hare to the neighborhoods across our city, Chicago is building, growing, and leading. We are open for business, open to the world, and once again setting the pace for the nation.”
The increase in air traffic at O’Hare reflects recovery after the pandemic and ongoing investments in airport modernization and capacity. The airport serves as a key hub not only for Chicago but also for national and international travel.
Michael McMurray, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), credited workers and airline partners for maintaining operations at high levels throughout the year. “Every one of those flights represents jobs, commerce, tourism, and opportunity,” said Commissioner McMurray. “Our CDA team and our key airline partners, like United Airlines and American Airlines and their many O’Hare operations workers, move mountains every day to keep O’Hare running at this busy level, no matter the season, no matter the obstacles. This achievement belongs to them—and to the people of Chicago.”
The milestone supports continued investment in projects such as ORDNext—a multi-billion-dollar program aimed at expanding capacity and improving passenger experience. The program includes construction of New Concourse D with 19 gates scheduled for completion by late 2028.
Phil Clement, President & CEO of World Business Chicago, emphasized O’Hare’s role in attracting business investment: “O’Hare’s return as the busiest airport in America underscores one of Chicago’s greatest competitive advantages: unmatched global connectivity,” Clement said. “For companies deciding where to locate, expand, or invest, access to markets, talent, and customers is critical—and O’Hare sits at the center of that equation. This recognition reinforces the importance of continued investment in our airports, including the ORDNext capital program and the new $1.3 billion Concourse D, recent examples of why O’Hare continues to deliver one of the best airport experiences in the country.”
Kristen Reynolds from Choose Chicago noted that airports serve as important gateways for visitors: “This achievement for O’Hare is a powerful reflection of Chicago’s momentum and our unmatched connectivity to the world,” Reynolds said. “Our airports are more than international hubs for transportation—they are our front door, the first touch point for millions of visitors every year… Having the busiest airport in the United States underscores…our visitor economy…and it reinforces Chicago’s position as a global hub for both business and leisure travel.”
Midway International Airport also ranked among major U.S. airports with 210,930 takeoffs and landings last year—placing it 38th nationally—demonstrating Chicago’s strength as a dual-hub system.
“With Midway playing a critical role in serving millions of business and leisure travelers last year, Chicago’s dual-airport system is unmatched by any other U.S. city,” added Commissioner McMurray.
The CDA oversees both O’Hare and Midway airports and manages their operations without using local or state tax dollars. The department advances economic growth through responsible management and drives significant job creation within Chicago’s regional economy.
Preliminary global data expected later this spring may confirm O’Hare as not only America’s busiest airfield but also potentially lead worldwide rankings when Airports Council International releases official figures this summer.
