O'hare Airport: Flight Departures And Delays

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving Chicago, Illinois, United States. As of 2024, it was considered the most connected airport in the US and the 5th most connected airport in the world. O'Hare offers non-stop flights to 249 destinations across the globe and is a hub for major airlines such as American Airlines and United Airlines. With such a high volume of flights and passengers, travellers can expect challenges, especially during peak hours. This is particularly true for security checks, where long lines and inconsistent procedures are commonly reported. To ensure a smooth departure from O'Hare, it is recommended to arrive early, use the airport app to monitor gate changes, and plan for potential taxiing delays during winter months.

International and domestic flight check-in times

O'Hare International Airport in Chicago is one of the busiest airports in the world, so it's important to allow plenty of time to check in for your flight and pass through security.

For domestic flights, it's recommended that travellers arrive at the airport two hours before their flight. For international flights, three hours ahead of the flight is advised. This will ensure you have plenty of time to check in, drop off your bags, get your boarding pass, and go through security.

To speed up the security screening process, there are several things to keep in mind. Firstly, wear shoes that are easy to remove, and consider wearing minimal accessories and jewellery, as these items may require additional screening. Empty your pockets and have your documents ready to present to the TSA officer. If you have any liquids, gels, or creams, these must follow the 3-1-1 rule: no more than 3.4 ounces of liquid, placed in a 1-quart plastic bag, with only one bag per person. This includes toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and sunscreen. If you have medically necessary liquids, inform the TSA officer.

For international flights, it's important to note that O'Hare is a testing site for a facial recognition scan program by the Department of Homeland Security. This means some travellers may need to undergo the additional step of being photographed before boarding.

Transport options to the airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is located on the city's northwest side, approximately 17 miles (27 km) from the Loop business district. The airport is easily accessible by several transport options, including:

Airport Shuttle

Several private companies offer airport shuttle services to and from O'Hare Airport. These shuttles can be a convenient and cost-effective option, especially for groups or families. Some companies even offer the option of reserving the luxury vehicle of your choice.

Bus

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates buses that serve O'Hare Airport. The CTA's Blue Line has its north terminus at O'Hare and provides direct service to downtown Chicago. Buses depart at intervals ranging from every four to thirty minutes, 24 hours a day. The station is located on the lower level of the parking garage and can be easily accessed via a tunnel from Terminals 1-3 and by shuttle bus from Terminal 5.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available at O'Hare Airport and can be hailed at designated taxi stands outside the arrivals area. Taxi services provide a direct and flexible transport option to and from the airport.

Train

The Airport Transit System (ATS) operates a shuttle service between the terminal core (Terminals 1-3), Terminal 5, and the O'Hare Multi-Modal Facility (MMF). The ATS provides a convenient connection to other transport options, such as the Metra commuter rail system, which has a transfer station at the northeast corner of the MMF.

Car

O'Hare Airport is directly accessible via Interstate 190 (Kennedy Expressway). This highway offers interchanges with major roads such as Mannheim Road (U.S. 12 and 45) and the Tri-State Tollway (Interstate 294). Interstate 90 continues as the Kennedy Expressway into downtown Chicago.

Additionally, limousine services and ride-sharing options, such as Uber or Lyft, are also available at O'Hare Airport. These can provide a more luxurious or personalised transport experience.

TSA Precheck availability

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is a major international airport serving Chicago, Illinois, United States. O'Hare is considered the most connected airport in the US and the 5th most connected airport in the world. It is also the 4th busiest airport in the US and the 7th largest airport.

O'Hare has non-stop flights to 249 destinations across the world, including North America, South America, the Caribbean, Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the North Atlantic region. The airport is a hub for American Airlines and United Airlines, as well as an operating base for Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines.

O'Hare has four numbered passenger terminals (Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5) with nine lettered concourses (Concourses B, C, E, F, G, H, K, L, and M) and a total of 213 gates, the most of any airport in the world. Terminal 1 is used for United Airlines, Lufthansa, and All Nippon Airways flights, while Terminal 2 is used for most United Express and some United flights, as well as all Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, and JetBlue flights. Terminal 3 serves American Airlines, Aer Lingus, British Airways, Iberia, Japan Airlines, and Spirit Airlines, and Terminal 5 is used for Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, and Southwest Airlines, as well as international airlines that do not depart from Terminals 1-3.

Regarding TSA PreCheck availability, it appears that the service is offered at O'Hare International Airport. TSA PreCheck is available in Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, with dedicated lanes in each terminal. The TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program has also been piloted at O'Hare, allowing eligible travellers to use facial recognition technology to pass through security without showing their physical ID or boarding pass. This program is available for United Airlines and Delta Air Lines customers with TSA PreCheck membership.

Based on traveller reports, the TSA PreCheck lines at O'Hare can vary in length depending on the time and day of travel. Some travellers report wait times of 5-15 minutes, while others have experienced longer waits of up to an hour. It is recommended to arrive at the airport with ample time to allow for potential delays, especially during peak travel times such as early Monday mornings.

Airport dining and shopping options

O'Hare International Airport offers a wide range of dining options to satisfy any craving. For a quick bite, try Brown Sugar Bakery in Terminal 3 for some Southern-inspired sweets, or grab a famous "cheezborger" at Billy Goat Tavern in Terminal 1. If you're in the mood for something more substantial, Butcher & The Burger in Terminal 5 offers customisable burgers, while The Hampton Social, also in Terminal 5, serves up lobster rolls, shrimp tacos, and New England clam chowder.

For those looking for a casual dining experience, Bar Siena in Terminal 5 offers crowd-pleasing Italian dishes, and Publican Tavern in Terminal 3 has a selection of craft beers and signature bites. If you're craving something more exotic, Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi Bar in Terminals 1 and 2 serves up fresh sushi and cocktails, or try Tortas Frontera in Terminals 1, 3, and 5 for Mexican tortas.

O'Hare also has plenty of options for travellers with a sweet tooth. Eli's Cheesecake in Terminal 1 offers a slice of Chicago's most famous cheesecake, and Garrett Popcorn, with locations in Terminals 1, 3, and 5, is the perfect spot for a light and salty-sweet snack.

When it comes to shopping, O'Hare has something for everyone. For Chicago-themed souvenirs, I Love Chicago in Terminal 5 is a popular choice. Tax-free goods can be found at the Chicago Duty-Free Shops, located in several terminals. Oakley, in Terminal 1, is known for its exceptional customer service, and Barbara's Bookstore, located in multiple terminals, provides a cosy shopping experience for book lovers. MAC Cosmetics, also in Terminal 1, is another standout for its professional and friendly staff.

Accommodation near the airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport is located 15.7 miles from the city centre. There are 157 hotels within 5 miles of the airport, with many offering free airport shuttle services. Here are some accommodation options near O'Hare Airport:

Hilton Chicago O'Hare Airport

Located just 0.1 miles from the airport, this hotel offers an indoor walkway to the domestic terminals and the Blue-line train station, providing easy access to downtown Chicago. It also features a fitness facility and has received good reviews for its room quality and ambiance.

Best Western At O'Hare

This hotel is situated 1.8 miles from O'Hare Airport and provides a free airport shuttle service. It offers free WiFi, a restaurant, and has been praised for its central location.

Holiday Inn Chicago O'Hare - Rosemont

Positioned 1.9 miles from the airport, this hotel offers a free breakfast and free airport shuttle service. It features a fitness centre, private parking, and a shared lounge. Guests have given positive feedback for its friendly staff and clean rooms.

Hyatt Place Chicago/O'Hare Airport

Just 2 miles from O'Hare Airport, this hotel provides a free airport shuttle and free WiFi. It also has a restaurant and is well-located for access to the airport.

Four Points by Sheraton Chicago O'Hare Airport

Located 1.8 miles from the airport, this Schiller Park hotel offers an airport shuttle service and free WiFi. It also features an indoor pool and has received good reviews for its comfortable rooms and accommodating staff.

Sonesta Chicago O'Hare Airport Rosemont

This hotel is 1.8 miles from O'Hare Airport and provides an airport shuttle every 30 minutes. It is also close to the Blue-line train station, with rooms offering amenities such as a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker. Guests have praised the friendly staff and convenient location.

The Rose Chicago, Tapestry Collection By Hilton

The Rose Chicago is located 1.7 miles from the airport and 13 miles from Wrigley Field. It offers a fitness centre, private parking, a shared lounge, and a terrace. Guests have given positive reviews for its modern and clean facilities, as well as its friendly staff.

Sheraton Suites Chicago O'Hare

Sheraton Suites is situated 1.7 miles from the airport and offers a free shuttle service to and from the airport. It is also located just one mile from the Allstate Arena. While the hotel has received good reviews overall, some guests have noted that the complimentary WiFi speed could be improved.

Frequently asked questions