O'hare Airport: Current Wait Times And Traffic Insights

Chicago O'Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, and its security checkpoints can sometimes cause delays. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) advises passengers to arrive at the airport well in advance of their scheduled departure time to account for potential delays. TSA security wait times can reach 10-35 minutes during peak hours at O'Hare, and unexpected situations can cause these estimates to vary. As of February 7, 2025, O'Hare experienced general departure and arrival delays of 15 minutes or less due to gate hold and taxi delays. Additionally, departure traffic to certain destinations faced significant delays due to runway closure and weather conditions.

Security wait times

The airport has various security checkpoints located in Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5. The operating hours for these checkpoints vary, but they typically open between 3:15 AM and 4:30 AM and close at 8:00 PM or 11:00 PM. Terminal 5 is open 24 hours for all passengers.

To expedite the security screening process, passengers can enrol in the TSA PreCheck program, which allows eligible travellers to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, and carry laptops and compliant liquids in their carry-on bags. TSA PreCheck is available at Checkpoints 1 and 2 in Terminal 1, Checkpoint 5 in Terminal 2, and Checkpoints 7A and 8 in Terminal 3.

Additionally, the CLEAR Plus program offers an even faster route through security using biometric verification. CLEAR Plus is available at Terminals 1, 2, and 5, with varying operating hours.

It is recommended to check real-time security wait times on the airport's website to plan your arrival accordingly and ensure ample time for security screening. Delays may also be caused by factors such as runway closures and unfavourable weather conditions.

TSA PreCheck

O'Hare Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, and security checkpoints can sometimes cause delays. The TSA PreCheck program is an option for travellers to expedite the security screening process. Here is some detailed information about the TSA PreCheck program at O'Hare Airport:

Benefits of TSA PreCheck

With TSA PreCheck, travellers can enjoy expedited security screening at participating airports, including O'Hare. Members can keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on, and their laptops and liquids can remain in their carry-on bags during security checks. This streamlined process significantly reduces wait times, which can reach 10-35 minutes during peak hours at O'Hare.

Availability at O'Hare Airport

Enrolment and Eligibility

Enrolment for TSA PreCheck is available at designated checkpoints in O'Hare, including locations where CLEAR Plus and CLEAR services are offered. PreCheck is designed for select frequent flyers of participating airlines and members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Trusted Traveller programs. Detailed information on how to enrol in the PreCheck program can be found on the iFly TSA PreCheck Guide.

The TSA PreCheck Touchless ID program is an expedited check-in process that allows eligible travellers to use their face to pass through security and check their bags without showing their boarding pass or driver's license. This program is available for United and Delta Air Lines at select airports, including O'Hare. To use Touchless ID, travellers must opt-in via the United app and will need to have the TSA PreCheck Touchless ID badge on their boarding pass.

Real-Time Wait Times

O'Hare Airport provides real-time security wait times on its website, helping travellers plan their arrival at the airport accordingly. It is still recommended that passengers arrive at the airport well in advance of their flight's scheduled departure time, as wait times can vary due to unexpected situations.

CLEAR Plus

Chicago O'Hare International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world. With CLEAR Plus, you can skip the long lines and get to your gate faster. CLEAR Plus is a paid membership service that offers expedited security screening at select airports, including O'Hare.

Here's how it works:

Faster Verification: CLEAR Plus uses advanced biometric technology to verify your identity with your face, eyes, or fingers. No more fumbling for your ID or waiting in line. Simply scan your boarding pass, verify your identity at a CLEAR Pod, and a friendly CLEAR Ambassador will escort you to the front of the security line for your screening. Family members under 18 can even join you in the CLEAR Lane at no extra cost!

Time Savings: With CLEAR Plus, you can save valuable time during your travels. Skip the standard security lines and use dedicated CLEAR Lanes at TSA checkpoints. At O'Hare, CLEAR Plus is available at Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 5, with varying hours of operation. No more worrying about missing your flight due to long security lines.

Convenience: Enrolling in CLEAR Plus is easy and can be done entirely online or at the airport. You can also add up to three adults to your account, so you can all enjoy the benefits together. CLEAR Plus also offers special rates and discounts, including discounted rates for military service members and government employees.

Exclusive Benefits: In addition to faster security screening, CLEAR Plus members enjoy exclusive offers and benefits, such as expedited passport services, easier luggage shipment, and global medical transport.

Nationwide Availability: CLEAR Plus is available at 57-58 airports nationwide, including major airports like Boston Logan International Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and San Francisco International Airport.

Bundle with TSA PreCheck: For the ultimate in convenience and speed, bundle your CLEAR Plus membership with TSA PreCheck. This combination allows you to enjoy the fastest route to your gate without waiting in line at airport security (CLEAR Plus) and without the hassle of removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, or light jackets (TSA PreCheck).

With CLEAR Plus, you can make your travel experience through O'Hare and other airports faster, easier, and more enjoyable. Skip the lines and enjoy a seamless journey with CLEAR Plus.

Delays by destination

As of February 7, 2025, at 3:47 AM GMT, the following delays by destination were reported for departure traffic from Chicago O'Hare International Airport:

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington, DC (DCA)

Due to a runway closure, departure traffic to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport is currently facing delays of approximately 2 hours and 9 minutes.

San Francisco International Airport, San Francisco, CA (SFO)

Weather conditions, particularly wind, are causing delays for flights headed to San Francisco International Airport. The average delay duration is 2 hours and 58 minutes.

In addition to these destination-specific delays, there are minor general departure and arrival delays of 15 minutes or less due to gate hold and taxi delays.

General arrival delays

If you are travelling to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD), it is advisable to check for any potential arrival delays. The airport provides real-time security wait times on its website, helping travellers to plan their arrival accordingly.

ORD security wait times are estimated by conducting an in-depth analysis of past flight data and TSA staffing rosters. While these estimates are reasonably accurate, they can vary due to unexpected situations. Therefore, it is recommended that passengers reach the airport well in advance of their scheduled arrival time.

To ensure a smooth arrival, it is advisable to stay updated on the latest security wait times and arrival delays. You can do this by checking the ORD website or using airport apps that provide real-time data on wait times. Additionally, enrolling in expedited security screening programs like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus can significantly reduce your wait at security checkpoints. These programs offer dedicated lanes and streamlined processes, allowing you to save time during your arrival.

By staying informed, enrolling in expedited screening programs, and allowing for some flexibility in your travel plans, you can effectively manage potential arrival delays at ORD and have a more pleasant travel experience. Remember to also check your airline's recommendations for arrival times, as these may vary.

Frequently asked questions