O’Hare Airport is officially the world’s busiest airfield, according to recently released data from the Airports Council International.
Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office and the Chicago Department of Aviation announced the milestone in a statement released Tuesday.
Here’s a look at the numbers and what they mean for you.
O’Hare ranked global leader in takeoffs and landings
The Airports Council International’s data found that O’Hare tracked 860,015 aircraft operations in 2025.
The figure represents a 10.8% increase from 2024, and an average of one takeoff or landing every 37 seconds.
O’Hare last held the title of busiest global airfield in 2019.
The return to the top spot coincides with numerous accessibility and traveler experience developments at the sprawling travel hub.
The ongoing $8.2 billion ORDNext program is set to outfit O’Hare with two new concourses, increasing connectivity and flight capacity.
Additionally, work is underway on a new state-of-the-art Global Terminal, which will replace O’Hare’s existing Terminal 2.
“Being home to the busiest airport in the world is a point of pride for every Chicagoan,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.
“Chicago sets the pace, and the world takes notice.”