Jamie Rhee Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) | Chicago City website
Jamie Rhee Commissioner, Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) | Chicago City website
Summer travel is underway at O’Hare and Midway International Airports, with projections indicating over 1.75 million passengers will pass through the airports between Wednesday, July 3 and Monday, July 8.
“I am thrilled to welcome everyone to our incredible city this summer. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, summertime in Chicago is second to none,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "We look forward to showing just how special our city is – from our 77 communities to our world-class museums, food, festivals and everything in between."
O’Hare is expected to handle approximately 1.43 million passengers, while Midway will accommodate nearly 320,000 individuals. This marks a 10.4% increase in passenger numbers compared to last year, with O’Hare seeing a rise of 12.3% and Midway experiencing an approximate increase of 3%. The busiest day for both airports is anticipated to be Wednesday, July 3.
“As one of the nation’s busiest airport systems, O’Hare and Midway International Airports are ready to welcome the many passengers coming to our City for the Fourth of July weekend,” said Jamie L. Rhee, Commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA). “The great employees at both airports, along with everyone at the CDA, will work tirelessly to ensure a safe, efficient and enjoyable holiday travel experience for our passengers.”
Travelers are advised on several tips:
Prevent Traffic Congestion
- Consider taking public transit such as CTA Blue Line (O'Hare) or Orange Line (Midway).
- Use Kiss n' Fly drop-offs.
- Utilize Cell Phone Lots for picking up arriving passengers.
Terminal Upgrades Underway
Passengers may notice construction activities aimed at upgrading facilities:
- Terminal 3: ElevateT3 development project.
- Terminal 5: New parking garage construction.
- Site preparation work for Satellite Concourse 1 west of Terminals 1 and 2.
Check Parking Updates Before You Leave
Passengers planning to park at O'Hare should check parking status online due to peak travel capacity issues.
Arrive Early
Expect longer wait times at TSA checkpoints. Real-time updates are available on FlyChicago.com.
Mobile Passport Control
CBP offers an MPC app for U.S. passport holders at O’Hare to streamline international arrivals.
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program
This program aims to raise awareness about hidden disabilities and improve accessibility through the use of sunflower symbols.
New Patriotic Activity Book
The CDA has introduced “Welcome to Chicago” coloring books available at information desks and online.
Star-Spangled Entertainment for Ticketed Passengers
Uncle Sam will make appearances at both airports during the holiday weekend as part of the #ChiontheFly entertainment series.
Patriotic Décor
Both airports will feature patriotic decorations throughout their terminals until Labor Day weekend.
New Concessions
Recent additions include local favorite R.J. Grunts at Midway and several new dining options in Terminal 5 at O’Hare.
New Passenger Amenities
Enhancements include Kids Play Area at Midway and new Service Animal Relief Areas (SARAs) and Mother’s Room in Terminal 3 at O’Hare.
For more information on services and real-time updates, travelers can visit FlyChicago.com.
About the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA):
The CDA operates one of the world's busiest airport systems comprising O'Hare and Midway International Airports. Together they serve over 105 million passengers annually without using local or state tax dollars for operations or capital improvements.
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