Located in the heart of the country and boasting two first-class airports, both operated by the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), Chicago is a gateway to the world. O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the country’s busiest airports, while Midway International Airport (MDW) is a premier point-to-point airport to nearly 80 destinations. Learn about new passenger experiences at both airports, from concessions to COVID health protocols and no-contact services.

Airport COVID safety

To minimize the spread of COVID-19, federal requirements mandate that all travelers over the age of two must wear a face covering at airports and on aircraft. When possible, socially distance (6 feet/2 meters), utilize touchless and mobile payments, and wash your hands or use hand sanitizer. More than 250 hand sanitizing stations have been installed at O’Hare, and there are 50 stations at Midway. Learn more about current health and safety protocols at Chicago’s airports.

New Airport Transit System (ATS)

The ATS is a convenient, fast, and reliable automated “people mover” at O’Hare International Airport. The fully automated ATS transports passengers to and from Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 5, as well as the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) for rental cars, Economy Parking Lot F, Kiss ‘n’ Fly, Pace buses, and Metra. For more information and hours of operation, visit flychicago.com/ats.

New services at O’Hare

Named Favorite Airport in North America, Favorite Airport Shopping, and Favorite Airport Dining by Global Traveler’s 2021 Trazee Awards, O’Hare is a fan favorite for its plentiful amenities and streamlined experience. Bypass security lines quickly and easily using CLEAR touchless security screening, which uses biometrics like your eyes and face to identify you.

New Midway amenities

Wherever Family’s Wherever Awards dubbed Midway Best Family-Friendly Domestic Airport — and its plentiful amenities make it easy to see why. Over the last three years, restaurant and retail openings included 30 new locations, including Big City Chicken (fried chicken sandwiches) and Gene’s Bistro (salads and sandwiches). Now dining has become even more convenient with the launch of contactless mobile ordering. Access the website through scanning a QR code or visiting goeatmdw.com on your mobile device to order, pay, and choose pick-up or delivery to anywhere in the airport. Along with Hudson Nonstop, featuring “Just Walk Out” technology, as well as CLEAR touchless security screening, this airport delivers a no-fuss experience.

Learn more about Chicago’s airports.