Large Crowds Expected At Chicago's Airports During The Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Period
November 20, 2000 -- More than one million travelers are expected to pass through Chicago's airports for the Thanksgiving holiday period. The Chicago Airport System will continue its strong commitment to friendly customer service, assisting passengers with helpful information and a friendly smile.
A daily average of 213,000 travelers will pass through O'Hare International Airport, while a daily average of 47,000 travelers will pass through Midway Airport during the six day period beginning Wednesday, November 22nd through Monday, November 27. The busiest day at O'Hare is projected to be Sunday, November 26th with over 260,000 travelers expected. Midway expects the busiest day to be Wednesday, November 22, with over 60,000 travelers.
"We've received tremendous response from travelers passing through our airport system praising our food, beverage and retail offerings. Recently, Business Traveler International Magazine voted O'Hare Best Airport in North America for the third consecutive year," said Aviation Commissioner Thomas R. Walker. "We are committed to making our traveler's experience more enjoyable."
Gingerbread cookies and apple cider will be provided to travelers as well as complimentary copies of airport traveler's guides to assist travelers with passenger services and amenities.
Chicago's airports will shine with lights and ornaments decorated on holiday trees representing some of the City's finest cultural institutions. Travelers will also be able to experience live entertainment featuring a variety of musical selections from duos to quartets, including jazz, classical, holiday blues and international selections. Live piano music will add charm to the terminals at Midway.
Travelers should allow ample time for traveling to the airports, ticketing and checking baggage. It is recommended that all international departing passengers arrive at least two and a half hours before their scheduled flight departure; domestic departing passengers should arrive at least two hours before their scheduled flight departure.
Travelers are encouraged to take advantage of the convenient public transportation options available to both O'Hare and Midway. The CTA's Blue line to O'Hare and the Orange line to Midway are convenient ways to get to the airports and the Loop while avoiding roadway congestion.
The new Pedestrian Bridge at Midway is open and travelers can access the new Pedestrian Bridge on the east side of the terminal curbfront across from doors M8 and M9. Access is also available from the third floor of the Midway Parking Garage and the CTA Orange Line Station.
Holiday parking rates are being offered to motorists using Chicago's airports from Wednesday, November 22 through Tuesday, November 28. O'Hare's main parking garage will offer 3 hours for $3.00. Midway's main parking garage will offer 2 hours for $2.00.
Curbside parking is prohibited and unattended and parked vehicles will be ticketed and towed.
