Airports in Chicago
Chicago is one of the largest cities in the United States and a major transportation hub. It is known for its two international airports – O’Hare and Midway. Both airports offer domestic and international flights to and from Chicago. In this article, we will explore which airport is the largest in Chicago.
Criteria for measuring airport size
The size of an airport can be determined by different factors such as the number of runways, terminal buildings, passenger traffic, and cargo volume. The passenger traffic is one of the most important factors in measuring the size of an airport. The more passengers an airport handles, the larger it is considered.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport
O’Hare International Airport is the largest airport in Chicago and the second-busiest airport in the United States. It covers an area of 7,627 acres and has four runways. It has four passenger terminals and handles over 83 million passengers annually. It is a hub for United Airlines and American Airlines and serves as a connecting airport for many other airlines.
History of O’Hare Airport
O’Hare International Airport opened in 1955 as Orchard Field Airport. It was renamed in honor of Lieutenant Commander Edward O’Hare, a World War II hero who was awarded the Medal of Honor. In the 1960s, O’Hare became the busiest airport in the world, surpassing New York’s JFK airport.
Facilities and services at O’Hare
O’Hare International Airport offers a wide range of facilities and services to its passengers, including shops, restaurants, lounges, and duty-free stores. It also has on-site hotels and parking facilities. The airport has a modern transportation system that includes a people mover, buses, and a train that connects the airport to downtown Chicago.
Traffic and passenger statistics
O’Hare International Airport handles over 83 million passengers annually and serves over 200 destinations worldwide. It is the second-busiest airport in the United States after Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Midway International Airport
Midway International Airport is the second-largest airport in Chicago and serves as a hub for Southwest Airlines. It covers an area of 320 acres and has five runways. It has one terminal building and handles over 22 million passengers annually.
History of Midway Airport
Midway International Airport opened in 1927 as Chicago Municipal Airport. It was renamed in 1949 to honor the Battle of Midway, a World War II naval battle. In the 1950s, Midway became a major hub for several airlines, including United Airlines and Delta Air Lines.
Facilities and services at Midway
Midway International Airport offers a variety of facilities and services to its passengers, including shops, restaurants, and lounges. It has on-site parking facilities and a transportation system that includes buses and trains.
Traffic and passenger statistics
Midway International Airport handles over 22 million passengers annually and serves over 60 destinations worldwide.
Comparison of O’Hare and Midway
O’Hare International Airport is significantly larger than Midway International Airport in terms of passenger traffic, runways, and terminal buildings. O’Hare is also a hub for more airlines than Midway, and it serves more destinations worldwide. However, Midway International Airport is closer to downtown Chicago and is known for its efficient and quick check-in and security procedures.
Conclusion: Largest airport in Chicago
In conclusion, O’Hare International Airport is the largest airport in Chicago, as it handles over 83 million passengers annually and has four terminal buildings and four runways. However, Midway International Airport is also a significant airport in Chicago, serving over 22 million passengers annually and offering a convenient location for travelers.
