Your Complete Guide to O’Hare International Airport (ORD)

Chicago O’Hare International Airport is the primary international airport serving Chicago, Illinois, United States, located on the city’s Northwest Side. It is one of the busiest airports in the world with the most runways. O’Hare serves as a major hub for domestic and international flights, connecting millions of passengers to destinations across North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. The airport features four passenger terminals, numerous shopping and dining options, modern transportation facilities, and handles more than 80 million passengers annually. Moreover, the staff there are friendly and are always available to assist passengers with any travel-related needs. For more information, continue reading the guide till the end. 

O’Hare International Airport: A Complete Overview

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest and most important airports in the world. With its modern facilities and extensive runway system, O’Hare connects millions of travelers to destinations across the United States and internationally. The table below provides key information about O’Hare International Airport, including its location, contact details, and other important info: 

Airport Information	Details
Airport Name	O’Hare International Airport
IATA Code	ORD
ICAO Code	KORD
Opened	February 1944
Address	10000 W O’Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666, United States
Passenger Terminals	4
Runways	8 (4L/22R, 9R/27L, 10L/28R, 4R/22L, 9L/27R, 10C/28C, 10R/28L, 9C/27C)
Annual Passenger Traffic	84.8 million
Airport Contact	+1 800-832-6352
Official Website	www.flychicago.com

Note: Runways 4L/22R and 4R/22L are crosswind runways, while the others run parallel east-to-west. 

ORD Airport Terminal Details

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) has four passenger terminals designed to handle both domestic and international flights efficiently. Each terminal handles multiple airlines, passenger services, dining options, shopping outlets, and transportation facilities to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience. 

Terminal 1	52 (Gates) Concourses (B, C)
Terminal 2	41 (Gates) Concourses (E, F)
Terminal 3	80 (Gates) Concourses (G, H, K, L)
Terminal 5	35 (Gates) Concourses (M)

Note: For a hassle-free journey, passengers are advised to check their airline’s latest terminal and gate information before arriving at the airport. Terminal locations may vary depending on flight routes, airline operations, and airport updates.

Airlines Serving O’Hare International Airport — ORD

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is served by a diverse network of domestic and international airlines, connecting passengers to destinations worldwide. With major carriers operating across multiple terminals, ORD offers travelers convenient flight options, reliable services, and global connectivity. The table below lists the airlines operating at O’Hare International Airport and their respective terminals:

Airline	IATA Code	Terminal
United Airlines	UA	Terminal 1
Aer Lingus	EI	Terminal 3
Iberia	IB	T3 (Departures), T5 (Arrivals)
Japan Airlines	JL
Air Canada	AC	Terminal 2
JetBlue	B6
Denver Air Connection	KG
Alaska Airlines	AS
Southern Airways Express	9X	Terminal 5 Terminal 5
Icelandair	FI
Air France	AF
ITA Airways	AZ
Air India	AI
Air Serbia	JU
Finnair	AY
EVA Air	BR
Etihad Airways	EY
Aeroméxico	AM
Frontier Airlines	F9
KLM	KL
Korean Air	KE
LOT Polish Airlines	LO
Qatar Airways	QR
Royal Jordanian	RJ
Scandinavian Airlines	SK
Arajet	DM
Austrian Airlines	OS
Avelo Airlines	XP
Southwest Airlines	WN
Sun Country Airlines	SY
Swiss International Air Lines	LX
TAP Air Portugal	TP
Turkish Airlines	TK
Copa Airlines	CM
Lufthansa	LH	T1 (Departures), T5 (Arrivals)
All Nippon Airways (ANA)	NH

ORD Wheelchair Assistance Services

O’Hare International Airport is committed to providing an accessible and comfortable travel experience for passengers with disabilities and mobility needs. The airport offers a range of accessibility services designed to help travelers navigate terminals, facilities, and transportation options with greater ease. Wheelchair assistance is available through individual airlines and can be arranged in advance to support passengers with mobility impairments, including assistance with traveling to and between gates. The following are the essential contact details that you can use to connect with the team for any mobility-related request: 

• Airport general contact number: +1 800-832-6352
• Wheelchair service: 773-894-3728
• Email: ADAcoordinator@cityofchicago.org

Note: For wheelchair assistance, you must contact your airline directly at least 48 hours before your flight, as each airline manages its own physical passenger escort services.

Ground Transportation Option at O’Hare International Airport- ORD 

O’Hare International Airport (ORD) provides passengers with a wide range of ground transportation options to conveniently travel between the airport. These transportation options ensure seamless connectivity while offering passengers flexible, reliable ways to continue their journeys after arriving at or departing from O’Hare International Airport.

• CTA Blue Line: The CTA Blue Line is the primary public transit option connecting O’Hare Airport with downtown Chicago and other parts of the city. The train station is located directly inside the airport, providing passengers with easy access without needing additional ground transfers. It operates 24 hours a day, with more frequent service during weekday peak travel periods, making it a reliable and economical choice for travelers.

• Metra: Metra commuter rail provides another transportation option for passengers traveling between O’Hare and Chicago’s suburbs. Travelers can access the O’Hare Transfer Station through the Airport Transit System (ATS), which connects airport terminals to the Multi-Modal Facility. Metra’s North Central Service offers connections to various locations as well as downtown Chicago.

• Airport Shuttles and Regional Buses: O’Hare Airport offers multiple shuttle and bus services to hotels, parking facilities, and regional destinations. Hotel and off-airport parking shuttles provide convenient connections, while regional bus services allow travelers from outside the Chicago area to reach the airport. Shuttle services operate from designated airport pickup locations, including Terminal 2 Arrivals and Terminal 5 areas, depending on the provider.

• Hotel and Off-Airport Parking Shuttles: Hotel and parking shuttles help passengers transfer between O’Hare terminals and nearby accommodations or parking facilities. These services are especially useful for travelers who need overnight stays or long-term parking solutions.

• Taxis: Licensed taxis are available at designated taxi stands located on the lower level outside baggage claim areas at each terminal. Taxi fares are calculated by meter based on travel time and distance, and service is available to destinations throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Passengers are advised to use official taxi stands for safety and reliability.

• Limousines and Rideshare Services: Private car services and rideshare companies provide another flexible option for airport transportation. Passengers can arrange rides through approved providers and travel directly to their chosen destination.

• Rental Cars: Rental car services are available at O’Hare International Airport for travelers who prefer independent transportation. Rental car facilities allow passengers to pick up vehicles for local travel, business trips, or longer journeys outside the Chicago area.

• Airport Transit System (ATS): The Airport Transit System (ATS) is a free automated transportation system that connects O’Hare terminals with airport facilities, including the Multi-Modal Facility. It helps passengers move efficiently between terminals, parking areas, and transportation connections such as rental cars and regional buses.

Parking Alternatives at O’Hare International Airport

O’Hare International Airport offers several parking options designed to meet different travel needs, from short-term visits and passenger pickups to long-term trips. Travelers can choose between convenient terminal-adjacent garages, daily parking areas, and more affordable economy lots. The table below lists the parking options available for passengers at ORD Airport: 

Parking Option	Best For	Rates
Main Garage – Hourly Parking	Short visits, passenger pickup/drop-off, and stays under a few hours	$3 for the first hour; up to $79 for 8–24 hours
Main Garage – Daily Parking (Levels 2–6, Lots B & C)	Travelers who want convenient parking close to domestic terminals	$3 for 0–1 hour; $43 for 8–24 hours
Terminal 5 Garage & Lot D	International travelers flying from Terminal 5 who want direct access	$3 for 0–1 hour; $43 for 8–24 hours
Economy Lot F	Long-term travelers looking for covered parking with lower daily costs	$16 per 24 hours
Economy Lot G	Budget-conscious travelers taking longer trips	$16 per day
Economy Lot H	Affordable long-term parking option near the airport’s northeast area	$16 per day

Note: For any parking-related issues, travelers can contact the office representatives by calling (773) 686-7530 or emailing ORDparking@cityofchicago.org. 

O’Hare International Airport Map Guide

Finding your way around a large airport like O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is much easier with a clear airport map. The O’Hare International Airport map helps travelers understand the terminal layout and quickly find key locations, including check-in counters, security checkpoints, gates, baggage claim areas, parking lots, transportation services, lounges, restaurants, and shops. Checking the map before arriving helps passengers plan their journey, avoid confusion, and move through the airport more smoothly and comfortably.

Useful Travel Tips for ORD Passengers

Traveling through O’Hare International Airport (ORD) can be a smooth and stress-free experience with a little preparation. As one of the world’s busiest airports, ORD offers many services and facilities, but knowing a few helpful tips can make your journey easier.

• Arrive Early: Reach the airport well before your scheduled departure to allow enough time for check-in, security screening, and reaching your gate.

• Check Your Terminal in Advance: Confirm your airline’s terminal and gate information before arriving to avoid last-minute confusion.
• Use the Airport Map: Review the ORD airport map to easily locate check-in counters, gates, baggage claim areas, lounges, dining options, and transportation services.

• Keep Travel Documents Ready: Have your ID, passport, boarding pass, and other important documents easily accessible for a quicker airport process.

• Plan Transportation Ahead: Check parking options, airport shuttles, public transportation, or ride services before your trip for a smoother arrival and departure.

• Stay Updated on Flight Information: Keep checking your flight status for any schedule changes, delays, or gate updates.

• Pack Smart: Follow airline baggage rules and keep essential items in your carry-on for easy access during your journey.

Conclusion

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the world’s busiest and most connected airports, offering excellent facilities, multiple terminals, extensive airline options, and convenient transportation services. From efficient passenger assistance and wheelchair support to parking, dining, shopping, and ground transportation, O’Hare is designed to provide a smooth travel experience for millions of passengers every year. By checking terminal details, flight updates, and airport services in advance, travelers can enjoy a more comfortable and hassle-free journey through ORD.

Frequently Asked Questions