Which airport in Chicago is considered to be large?

Airports in Chicago

Chicago, Illinois is home to several airports that serve both domestic and international flights. These airports are important transportation hubs not just for the city but for the entire region. The two main airports in Chicago are O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport.

Definition of what "large airport" means

A large airport is typically defined as an airport that handles a significant amount of passenger traffic and has numerous amenities and facilities to accommodate that traffic. Large airports often have multiple terminals, multiple runways, and a wide range of services and amenities such as restaurants, shops, and lounges.

Ranking criteria for airport size

The size of an airport is typically measured by the number of passengers that pass through it annually. The Airports Council International (ACI) ranks airports by their passenger traffic numbers. Other factors that can contribute to an airport’s size include the number of airlines that operate there, the number of flights that depart and arrive daily, and the size of the airport’s physical infrastructure.

O’Hare International Airport: Overview

O’Hare International Airport is the largest airport in Chicago and the sixth busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic. In 2019, O’Hare served more than 83 million passengers. The airport covers over 7,200 acres and has four terminals.

O’Hare International Airport: Terminal information

Each of O’Hare’s four terminals has multiple concourses and a wide range of amenities for passengers. The airport has more than 80 restaurants and cafes, as well as numerous shops and lounges. The airport also has a variety of services for passengers with disabilities, including accessible parking, restrooms, and assistance with boarding and deplaning.

Midway International Airport: Overview

Midway International Airport is the second-largest airport in Chicago, serving more than 22 million passengers annually. The airport covers over 300 acres and has one terminal.

Midway International Airport: Terminal information

Midway’s terminal has three concourses and offers a variety of amenities for passengers, including restaurants, shops, and lounges. Midway also has a variety of services for travelers with disabilities, including accessible parking, restrooms, and assistance with boarding and deplaning.

Comparison of O’Hare and Midway airports

While O’Hare is significantly larger than Midway in terms of passenger traffic and physical size, both airports offer a wide range of services and amenities for passengers. O’Hare’s four terminals offer more options in terms of dining and shopping, while Midway’s smaller size can make it a more convenient option for travelers looking for a quicker and easier travel experience.

Other airports in Chicago: Overview

In addition to O’Hare and Midway, Chicago is also home to several smaller airports, including Chicago Executive Airport and Chicago Midway Airport.

Summary of airport size rankings

O’Hare International Airport is the largest airport in Chicago and the sixth busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic. Midway International Airport is the second-largest airport in Chicago, serving more than 22 million passengers annually.

Conclusion: Importance of airport size for travelers

For travelers, the size of an airport can be an important factor to consider when choosing a departure or arrival location. Larger airports may offer more amenities and services, but can also be more crowded and hectic. Smaller airports may offer a more streamlined experience, but may have fewer options in terms of dining and shopping.