Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) is preparing to accommodate over 1.8 million travelers at O'Hare and Midway International Airports during the Thanksgiving holiday period from November 26 to December 2. This figure highlights Chicago's role as a significant hub for both national and international travel.

O'Hare Airport anticipates an 11.4% increase in passenger traffic compared to last year, with nearly 1.5 million travelers expected. The busiest day is projected to be December 1, with over 254,000 passengers. Meanwhile, Midway Airport expects traffic levels similar to the previous year, with its peak also on December 1, welcoming more than 58,000 passengers.

"Chicago takes pride in being a welcoming gateway for millions of travelers during the holidays," stated Mayor Brandon Johnson. He expressed gratitude towards CDA staff and airport workers for their efforts in ensuring a smooth travel experience.

CDA Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee emphasized safety as a top priority: "The holiday season is a time to come together with friends and family, and our airports are proud to help make those reunions possible."

To avoid congestion at O'Hare and Midway, several tips are suggested including using free Cell Phone Lots for pickups and utilizing public transit options like the CTA Blue Line and Orange Line or Metra’s North Central Service.

Travelers are encouraged to check parking availability at FlyChicago.com before heading to the airport due to high demand during this busy period. A new six-story parking garage has been opened at O’Hare’s Terminal 5, doubling available parking capacity.

For rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft at O'Hare, designated pickup zones have been established near Terminal 2. Taxis remain available outside baggage claim areas at all terminals.

O’Hare continues to receive accolades for its concessions offerings, recently winning Trazee Travel's award for Favorite Airport Dining for the fifth consecutive year. New concessionaires have been introduced throughout Terminal 5 since January.

Family-friendly amenities include a Family Lounge at O’Hare featuring play areas and nursing facilities available across both airports.

Live entertainment will be featured throughout the holiday weekend with performances by various artists scheduled across different terminals.

Holiday decorations are underway at both airports with nine-foot-tall trees displayed throughout O’Hare courtesy of local cultural organizations while Midway showcases festive ornaments inside its terminal.

Passengers should prepare for potential longer wait times at security checkpoints by checking real-time updates on FlyChicago.com where additional information about flights, parking updates, and other services can also be found.

Access to airport terminals remains restricted solely to ticketed passengers or those assisting them along with authorized personnel engaged in legitimate airport business activities.