O'Hare Airport Breaks Records: Smooth Sailing Despite Memorial Day Weekend Rush

O'Hare Airport Sees Record Memorial Day Weekend Travel Chicago's O'Hare International Airport experienced a surge in travelers during the Memorial Day weekend, exceeding expectations. AAA predicted record travel numbers for the holiday weekend, and O'Hare was no exception. The airport anticipated more than 1.5 million passengers, representing a 7% increase compared to last year. This influx of travelers was evident in the bustling terminals and the busy tarmac, as shown in the ABC7 Chicago news report. American Airlines, a major carrier at O'Hare, reported a significant increase in flights and passengers. Ben Humphrey, an American Airlines representative, stated, "Planning for this weekend started months ago, back in October." This proactive approach highlights the airline's preparation for the anticipated surge in demand. The airline added new routes from Chicago to accommodate the increased number of travelers, expecting a 20% boost in their numbers this summer. Despite the high volume of travelers, many reported a surprisingly smooth experience. Tiffany Knauer, a traveler heading to Florida, expressed her pleasant surprise at the manageable traffic flow both inside and outside the airport. This positive feedback contrasts with the usual expectations of significant delays during peak travel periods. The report also noted that travelers benefited from lower gas prices and hotel costs compared to the previous year. This positive economic aspect made the Memorial Day travel more affordable for many, contributing to the high number of travelers. The combination of increased travel demand and relatively smooth operations created a successful Memorial Day weekend travel experience for many in the Chicago area.