Chicago Airport: A Hub Of Human Traffic

Chicago's airports are a busy hub of activity, with O'Hare and Midway International Airports welcoming a combined total of over 95.9 million passengers in 2023. This number is expected to increase in 2024, with the Federal Aviation Administration projecting 41.5 million enplanements at O'Hare alone. Chicago's airports connect people from all over the world to the city, and with its convenient location in the centre of the country, it's no wonder that Chicago is among the most popular tourist destinations in the United States.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

The airport is located 16 miles from downtown Chicago and is accessible via the CTA Blue Line, which provides 24/7 service, and the Airport Transit System (ATS). O'Hare is known for its wide range of dining options, including cuisine from around the world, as well as yoga and meditation facilities.

In 2024, O'Hare is expected to continue its robust growth, with an increase in the number of destinations served and flight routes offered. The airport is also undergoing a $300 million upgrade to its terminal facilities, supported by funding from President Joe Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

Midway is nicknamed the "world's busiest square mile" and is one of the oldest airports in Chicago, having begun as an airmail service airport. Before O'Hare came into existence, Midway served the commercial needs of Chicago.

In 2023, Midway transported more than 22 million passengers, a 10.7% increase over the previous year. This was an unprecedented level of air service, with passenger figures surpassing pre-pandemic levels in the first half of 2023. The airport saw a 5.5% increase in passengers compared to 2019.

During the historically busy Memorial Day holiday travel period in 2024, Midway was projected to see more than 294,000 passengers, a 3.1% increase over 2023.

Chicago's airports, including Midway, provide a number of health, welfare, and safety benefits to Illinois. They also contribute to the local economy through visitor spending at hotels, restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment establishments.

Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY)

Gary/Chicago International Airport covers 763 acres of land and sits at an elevation of 597 feet above mean sea level. The airport has two asphalt runways: 12/30, which is 8,859 feet long and 150 feet wide, and 2/20, which is 3,604 feet long and 100 feet wide. These runways can accommodate aircraft of all sizes.

In the year ending December 31, 2022, there were 114 aircraft based at Gary/Chicago International Airport, including 39 single-engine planes, 9 multi-engine planes, 53 jets, 6 helicopters, and 7 military aircraft. The airport also houses an Army Aviation Support Facility for UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter operations and an Army National Guard Armory.

Gary/Chicago International Airport has a strategic location and state-of-the-art facilities, making it an ideal choice for cargo transportation. It offers excellent infrastructure, reasonable fees, and convenient access to Chicago. The airport has received federal funding for expansion projects, including extending the main runway and adding gates to the passenger terminal.

In terms of passenger service, Gary/Chicago International Airport has experienced fluctuations. Federal Aviation Administration records show that the airport had 4,353 passenger boardings in 2008, decreasing to 1,633 in 2009 and then increasing to 2,143 in 2010. The airport has been categorised as a non-primary commercial service airport based on enplanements. There have been periods without scheduled passenger flights, but efforts are being made to re-attract passenger service. Commercial flights were expected to resume in late 2023 or early 2024, but this has been delayed due to pilot shortages and aircraft delivery issues.

Gary/Chicago International Airport provides convenient ground transportation options. The South Shore Line commuter rail train serves the airport, with a station located about a mile south of the terminal. This rail service provides easy access to downtown Chicago.

Chicago DuPage County Airport

The airport boasts an impressive range of facilities, including a superior airfield, a first-class flight centre, and a championship-level golf course. With four active runways, it is the only facility of its kind in Illinois with this many runways, and its primary runway is the second longest in the Chicago area. The airport's capacity and safety are further enhanced by clear approaches and undeveloped land surrounding the runways.

DuPage Airport also offers a wide range of services for transient crews and passengers, including courtesy cars, a passenger terminal, lounges, snooze rooms, showers, and even an exercise room. Additionally, there is a flight school, aircraft rental services, aerial tours, and aircraft maintenance and management available on-site.

The airport is owned and operated by the DuPage Airport Authority, an independent government body established by the state of Illinois. It also serves as a relief airport for Chicago's O'Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. With its convenient location and comprehensive amenities, DuPage Airport is a popular choice for business and private aviation in the Chicagoland area.

Chicago Rockford International Airport

RFD is a fast-growing cargo airport, specialising in cargo operations and processing over 3.4 billion pounds (1.5 million tonnes) of cargo. It is the 14th-busiest cargo airport in the United States and is ranked among the top 20 air cargo airports in the country. UPS Airlines operates a major hub at the airport, and it is also served by Amazon Air. The airport has three cargo ramps, with the largest ramp providing parking spaces for up to 40 jet aircraft.

The airport offers a range of facilities and services to enhance the travel experience for passengers. These include free Wi-Fi, short lines, complimentary baggage carts, a free parking lot shuttle, and curbside baggage assistance. The airport is also wheelchair- and stroller-friendly. Additionally, there is a café and bar where travellers can relax and refuel.

Frequently asked questions