Chicago’s airports are gearing up for a busy Memorial Day Weekend, with more than 1 million travelers expected to pass through O’Hare and Midway, according to the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA).
A 5% increase from last year’s numbers, O’Hare is expected to see its busiest day on Thursday, May 22, while Midway’s peak will fall on Monday, May 26.
With new REAL ID requirements and ongoing construction along the Kennedy Expressway, getting to and through the airport may be more complicated than usual.
Here’s everything you need to know to keep your travel experience stress-free.
Kennedy Expressway Construction
The final phase of the Kennedy Expressway reconstruction is underway, and all outbound reversible express lanes are currently closed.
As a result, traffic heading to O’Hare is limited to the regular lanes—leading to heavier congestion.
The CDA advises travelers to plan for significant delays, especially during peak hours. Commute times from downtown Chicago to O’Hare may range from 1 to 2 hours.
Take the “L”, Skip the Traffic
To avoid traffic altogether, consider taking public transit.
- The CTA Blue Line offers direct daily service to O’Hare Terminal 2.
- The CTA Orange Line provides daily service to Midway Airport, starting at 4 a.m. daily.
- The Metra North Central Service also runs on weekdays between Union Station and O’Hare Transfer Station.
REAL ID requirements
Travelers flying out of O’Hare or Midway will need a REAL ID–compliant form of identification at TSA checkpoints.
Accepted forms include REAL ID–compliant driver’s licenses and passports. Those without a compliant ID may be subject to additional screening to verify their identity.
Expect longer-than-usual wait times at security.
Click here to check if you’re REAL ID ready.
Arrive Early
With crowds and security delays expected, allow more time than usual to reach your gate.
While the standard advice is to arrive two hours before departure, consider giving yourself extra buffer time—especially if you’re flying during peak hours.
More information
Click here for additional travel tips and information from the Chicago Department of Aviation.