O'Hare International Airport undergoes $12.5 billion renovation

O'Hare International Airport is undergoing a massive $12.5 billion renovation project known as ‘ORDNext’. The expansion aims to modernize the facility by creating a new global terminal, a new concourse on the site of the former Terminal 2, and two new linear concourses southwest of United Airlines’ Terminal 1. The project also includes the construction of a new tunnel and an underground pedestrian walkway to connect all airport elements.

Upon completion, the airport will increase its gate count from 185 to 220. This transformation is viewed by the city as essential for maintaining competitiveness as major carriers American Airlines and United Airlines seek to expand operations. While the Federal Aviation Administration has imposed a flight cap until October 2027 to manage congestion, airlines are planning to increase capacity by flying larger aircraft. American Airlines is projected to increase seat capacity by 21% compared to 2025, while United Airlines is expected to add more than 13%.

According to a debt prospectus issued by the Chicago Department of Aviation on August 21, Concourse D is expected to open within two years.