O'Hare International ranked as second-busiest airport for aircraft movements in 2024

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O'Hare International ranked as second-busiest airport for aircraft movements in 2024

Chicago Department of Aviation | Chicago Department of Aviation

By Sky Industry News

Apr 14, 2025

The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) and Airports Council International (ACI) World have reported that O'Hare International Airport was the second-busiest airport globally for aircraft movements in 2024, and the eighth busiest for passenger traffic.

Mayor Brandon Johnson stated, "Chicago has long stood at the crossroads of global travel and commerce, and O’Hare’s ranking as the world’s second-busiest airport for aircraft movements is a powerful reflection of that legacy.” The mayor attributed this achievement to the dedication of Chicago's workforce and the effective management by the CDA.

CDA Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee expressed her gratitude to the agency's staff, noting, “I’m incredibly grateful to our frontline CDA staff for their tireless dedication to ensuring Chicago’s airports operate safely, efficiently, and reliably — even amid growing demand.” She underlined the team's efforts under the O’Hare 21 capital program to modernize the airport.

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In 2024, O'Hare executed 776,036 aircraft movements, second only to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, representing a 7.7% increase over 2023. The airport also saw a notable passenger increase, processing over 80 million people, marking an 8.3% rise from the previous year.

The 8.3% growth was the largest among American airports in ACI's 2024 rankings, allowing O'Hare to move ahead of both Shanghai Pudong International Airport and Indira Gandhi International Airport to the eighth position from ninth in 2023. Full rankings can be accessed on ACI World's website.

ACI World Director General Justin Erbacci said, "Amid global challenges, the resilience of the world’s busiest airports shines,” adding that these airports are essential for global commerce and connectivity.

As the demand for air travel continues to grow, Chicago’s airports are ready for another busy period in 2025, with airlines planning nearly 17.8 million departing seats from O’Hare and Midway this summer.