Flying in or out of O’Hare International Airport this weekend? Be prepared for extended wait times and large crowds.
The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) has released projections ahead of America’s 250th birthday—and figures show O’Hare could see its busiest Fourth of July Weekend on record.
CDA projects more than 1 million passengers over Fourth of July Weekend
The CDA anticipates 1.62 million passengers will travel through O’Hare between Wednesday, July 1, and Monday, July 6, according to a release.
This will mark the busiest Fourth of July holiday period in the airport’s history.
The CDA also predicts increased traffic at Midway airport, with an estimated 325,000 travelers expected during the same period.
These figures represent a 7% increase in traffic at Chicago’s airports compared to the 2025 Independence Day holiday period.
“As our nation celebrates its 250th birthday, Chicago is proud to welcome millions of travelers to a city that has helped shape America’s history, culture and future,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.
“…Whether visitors are joining us to celebrate or connecting to destinations around the world, we are ready to welcome them with the energy, hospitality and spirit that make Chicago the greatest city in the world.”
Know before you go
Those flying in or out of Chicago’s airports this weekend should expect the unexpected.
Here’s a quick checklist to get you to your flight on time.
- Arrive early
- Travelers may experience longer-than-normal wait times at TSA security checkpoints.
- The CDA recommends arriving earlier than the standard two hours before takeoff.
- Get live TSA wait time updates here.
- Utilize public transit
- Travelers can connect directly to O’Hare airport via the CTA Blue Line, 24/7.
- Flyers heading to Midway can connect direct via the CTA Orange line, 24/7.
- Don’t forget your Real ID
- All flyers must have a Real ID or Real ID-compliant form of identification like a U.S. passport in order to pass through TSA.
- Those without a Real ID may be subject to a fee and additional security screening.
- Learn more about Real ID requirements in Illinois here.
