ORD: Chicago O'Hare International Airport survival guide
O'Hare is a huge connecting hub for United and American, with Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5 linked by an automated train. Winter weather and deicing cause delays, so give yourself room on cold-weather connections.
Last checked October 2026. Confirm details on O'Hare (official).
ORD at a glance
| Terminals | 1, 2, and 3 (domestic) plus 5 (international) |
|---|---|
| Between terminals | Airport Transit System train |
| Public transit | CTA Blue Line to downtown Chicago |
| Biggest airlines | United (Terminal 1) and American (Terminal 3) |
Tips for ORD
- In winter, pick connections of 90 minutes or more if you can.
- Terminal 5 is a train ride from the others. Factor that into international connections.
- The Blue Line is cheap and avoids Kennedy Expressway traffic.
- Deicing can add time after boarding. Use the restroom before you board.
Universal airport tips
- TSA PreCheck usually means shorter lines, and you keep your shoes on.
- Screenshot your boarding pass in case the app or Wi-Fi fails.
- Know your rights before something goes wrong: refunds, bumping, and lost bags.