Following one of the busiest summers on record, Chicago airports are preparing to welcome nearly 2 million travelers over Labor Day Weekend.
O’Hare International and Midway airports will see a combined total of 1.79 million passengers between now and Tuesday, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA).
Individually, the CDA expects O’Hare to welcome 1.5 million flyers, a steep increase of 3.8% from Labor Day Weekend 2024, and a 10.4% increase from the 2019 holiday. Meanwhile, Midway will see 293,000 travelers pass through the gates.
The CDA predicts the busiest day for both airports will be Friday, August 29.
If you’re heading to either airport this weekend, you’ll want to plan ahead and come prepared. Here’s a couple tips to make your Labor Day travel plans a breeze.
Arrive early
If you’re flying out of O’Hare this weekend, you’ll want to leave early to account for traffic delays.
The last phase of the Kennedy Expressway construction project is underway, and drivers should anticipate delays on both express and regular lanes, especially during peak hours.
The CDA advises drivers to check traffic delays before leaving, as commute times from downtown Chicago to O’Hare could exceed an hour.
Take the “L,” beat the traffic
Looking to avoid the traffic all together? The CTA is here to help!
The Blue Line offers 24/7 to O’Hare, while the Orange Line provides direct service to Midway beginning at 4 a.m.
Additionally, the Metra North Central Service runs on weekdays between Union Station and O’Hare Transfer Station.
Don’t forget your Real ID
All travelers ages 18 and older are now required to present a Real ID or other compliant identification at all TSA checkpoints.
Accepted forms of ID include the following:
- REAL ID compliant drivers licenses or state-issued ID
- US passport or passport card
To view additional accepted forms of ID, click here.
“Summer travel is especially robust this year, and we look forward to welcoming thousands of visitors to see firsthand how we’re transforming Chicago into the safest, most affordable big city in America,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson in a statement.
“This Labor Day weekend, we welcome all to our city — the cradle of the American labor movement — as summer gives way to fall.”