Lois Larson
Chicago is home to two major airports: O'Hare International Airport and Midway Airport. Both have been ranked among the worst airports in the US. O'Hare, the larger of the two, has been criticized for its long security wait times, crowded gates, limited food options, and frequent flight disruptions. Midway, on the other hand, has been notorious for flight delays and was ranked as the worst airport in the US for delays in 2022.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Security wait times | Average wait time for security is 27 minutes, with a maximum wait time of 61 minutes |
| Customer satisfaction | Ranked last in J.D. Power's 2021 customer satisfaction survey for "mega"-sized airports |
| Delayed flights | 25% of commercial flights disrupted in March |
| Food selection | Limited |
| Gate areas | Small and filled with large chairs, with a lack of seating |
| Location | Geographic setting includes recurring blizzards and severe thunderstorms |
| Size | 8 active runways and 200+ boarding gates |
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What You'll Learn
Long security wait times
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the world's busiest airports, with eight active runways and over 200 boarding gates. It is also one of the worst airports in the US, according to Frommer's, which based its ranking on flight delays, security wait times, customer satisfaction surveys, and expert reviews.
The long wait times at O'Hare can be frustrating for travellers, especially those who arrive early for their flights. One traveller commented that despite arriving two hours early, they could not find a place to sit at their gate due to the crowds. The gate areas are small, and the limited seating is taken up by large, cushioned chairs. This means that passengers may have to stand or sit on the floor while waiting for their flights, adding to the discomfort and stress of travelling through O'Hare.
The stress of long security wait times at O'Hare is further compounded by flight disruptions. O'Hare has a high rate of flight disruptions, with 25% of commercial flights disrupted in March, including cancellations, delays, overbooking, and denied boardings. These disruptions can cause further delays and contribute to the overall negative experience of travelling through the airport.
To improve the situation, O'Hare could consider implementing measures to streamline security processes and increase efficiency. This could include investing in new technology, such as advanced screening equipment and automated systems, to speed up security checks and reduce wait times. Additionally, the airport could explore ways to optimise the layout and increase the capacity of the security area to better accommodate the high volume of passengers.
In summary, long security wait times at Chicago O'Hare International Airport are a significant issue due to its high passenger volume, inefficient security system, and frequent flight disruptions. To enhance the traveller experience, the airport should focus on improving security efficiency and reducing wait times, ensuring that passengers can move through the airport in a timely and comfortable manner.
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Poor customer satisfaction
Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the world's busiest airports, with over 80 million passengers passing through in 2024. However, it has consistently ranked among the worst airports in the US in terms of customer satisfaction.
One of the main pain points for passengers is the lengthy and inefficient security screening process. The average wait time for security at O'Hare is 27 minutes, with maximum wait times reaching around 61 minutes. This contributes to a stressful experience for travellers, especially those with time-sensitive connections.
The layout of the airport has also been criticised. O'Hare's massive size, with eight active runways and over 200 boarding gates, can make it challenging to navigate. The distance between gates can be considerable, and passengers have complained about the limited food options available, particularly for an airport of its size.
Compounding the issue of long distances between gates is the lack of seating in gate areas. Passengers have reported that even when they arrive at their gates early, they often find it difficult to secure a seat. This can be especially inconvenient for travellers with long layovers or those requiring additional comfort or accessibility.
Flight disruptions, including delays and cancellations, further contribute to poor customer satisfaction at O'Hare. In March, 25% of commercial flights were disrupted, according to AirHelp data. While severe weather events like blizzards and thunderstorms can be contributing factors, they are not the sole cause of the disruptions. O'Hare has also been named one of the most stressful airports in the US by Skytrax and Google Reviews, underscoring the overall dissatisfaction expressed by travellers.
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Delayed flights
Chicago's Midway Airport was named the worst airport in the United States for flight delays in 2022. Data from that year's summer months showed that nearly 38% of Midway flights were delayed—a rate five percentage points higher than the next closest airports. Travellers have also reported consistent delays at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, with some blaming the airport's cramped, disorganized layout and frequent storms in the region.
O'Hare is located in the centre of the country, where major weather fronts frequently pass through. Snowstorms in winter and thunderstorms in summer can cause delays. One traveller noted that they never take layovers at O'Hare, instead choosing it only as a final destination to avoid potential delays.
Equipment and crew problems have also been cited as reasons for delays at O'Hare. In one instance, a traveller reported that both of their flights connected through Dallas-Fort Worth Airport (DFW) were delayed by over five hours due to these issues. Another traveller shared a similar experience, stating that their flight was delayed by two and a half hours.
While some travellers have consistently experienced delays at O'Hare, others have not noticed any unusual delays. These travellers shared that they avoid layovers at the airport and only use it as a final destination, which may contribute to their differing experiences.
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Lack of seating
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the world's busiest airports, with eight active runways and over 200 boarding gates. However, it has received criticism for its lack of seating.
One passenger commented that the gate areas are small and filled with large, cushioned chairs that take up a lot of space. As a result, there is a lack of seating options, which can be frustrating for travellers who arrive early for their flights.
The issue of limited seating is exacerbated by the long security wait times at the airport. According to one source, the average wait time for security at O'Hare is 27 minutes, with maximum wait times reaching around 61 minutes. This means that passengers may have to stand or walk around for extended periods while waiting for their turn at security.
The lack of seating at Chicago O'Hare Airport can be a significant inconvenience, especially for those with mobility issues, the elderly, or families with young children. It can cause discomfort, fatigue, and even health issues for those who have to stand for long periods.
To improve the situation, the airport could consider installing more seating options, such as benches or smaller chairs that optimise space without compromising comfort. Additionally, providing clear information about wait times and offering seating in waiting areas beyond the gates could help manage passenger expectations and reduce congestion in specific areas.
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Poor food options
Chicago's Midway Airport has been ranked as one of the worst airports in the US, with its food options described as "bland and boring". The airport's limited space in a densely populated area has made it challenging to expand and improve the dining experience. However, efforts have been made to enhance the concessions, with investments like the Midway Modernization Program aiming to bring over 70 new concessions and amenities. Despite these efforts, travellers and travel publications remain unimpressed, advising others to bring their own food.
The food court at Midway Airport offers a variety of options, including Mexican, pizza, Greek, sushi, and Chicago-style hot dogs. While some travellers opt for the iconic Chicago hot dogs, others find the food choices unappealing and settle for convenience store options or saving their appetite for authentic Chicago cuisine outside the airport.
O'Hare International Airport, on the other hand, has received more positive reviews for its dining options. It offers a wide range of choices to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and schedules. From quick bites to gourmet restaurants, travellers can find top-rated options like Tortas Frontera, Hub 51, and Publican Tavern. O'Hare also caters to late-night travellers with 24/7 dining options in Terminal 5.
Despite the improvements and varying opinions, Midway Airport continues to face criticism for its food options. The limited space and challenges with expansion persist, and travellers are advised to come prepared with their own food choices if they want to avoid disappointment.
To summarise, Chicago's Midway Airport has been consistently ranked poorly for its food options, which are described as uninspiring and limited. While efforts are being made to improve the dining experience, travellers are advised to bring their own food or opt for alternatives outside the airport. O'Hare International Airport, in comparison, offers a more diverse and well-received dining experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Chicago O'Hare airport is considered bad due to long security wait times, crowded areas, limited food options, and frequent flight disruptions.
The average wait time for security at O'Hare is 27 minutes, with a maximum wait time of around 61 minutes.
Yes, in addition to the long wait times, passengers have also complained about the lack of seating at the gates, with large chairs taking up a lot of space.
Chicago O'Hare airport is consistently ranked as one of the worst airports in the US. It was named the 8th most stressful airport in the country and was also included in a list of the 10 worst airports by Frommer's.
Yes, Chicago Midway Airport has also received negative reviews. It has been criticized for flight delays, outdated facilities, and a lack of dining options.
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