Chicago airports brace for Thanksgiving rush: Over 1.8 million travelers expected

CDA Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee emphasized the importance of safety and facilitating family reunions during the holiday season: "At the CDA, safety is our top priority."

To prevent congestion around O'Hare and Midway airports, several strategies have been suggested including using free Cell Phone Lots for pickups and utilizing public transport options like CTA lines and Metra services.

Travelers are advised to check parking lot statuses via FlyChicago.com before heading to the airport. New parking facilities have been introduced at O'Hare's Terminal 5 while repairs at Midway’s Terminal Parking Garage have concluded.

For rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft at O’Hare, designated pickup zones are available at Terminal 2 with drop-offs permitted at all terminals. Taxis and limousines are accessible outside baggage claim areas.

O’Hare continues to be recognized for its dining options having won Trazee Travel’s award for Favorite Airport Dining for five consecutive years. New concessions have opened in Terminal 5 this year including Bar Siena and Chick-fil-A among others.

Family-friendly amenities include a Family Lounge at O’Hare offering play areas for children along with nursing facilities across both airports.

Live entertainment will be provided throughout the holiday period featuring various artists performing different genres at both airports.

As part of Chicago's annual tradition, both airports will be decorated festively with cultural displays by local organizations representing Chicago's diverse history.

Passengers should anticipate longer wait times at security checkpoints due to increased traffic volumes during this busy travel season. Real-time updates can be accessed on FlyChicago.com which also provides comprehensive information about flights and other airport services.

Access to airport terminals remains restricted to ticketed passengers or those assisting them alongside authorized personnel only.