For Immediate Release:
March 18, 2003

Contact Information:
Monique Bond
773-686-3700/312-839-3194

THE CHICAGO AIRPORT SYSTEM IMPLEMENTS ELEVATED ALERT STATUS

Airport and TSA Officials Provide Advice for the Traveling Public

CHICAGO - March 18, 2003 -- The Chicago Airport System has been elevated to Orange Alert status by the Office of Homeland Security. Chicago's Airports have implemented a safety and security plan to augment the airport's existing measures.

"Safety and Security for the traveling public at Chicago's airports continue to be a high priority," said Aviation Commissioner Thomas R. Walker. We will continue to work closely with the Office of Homeland Security to coordinate the appropriate security measures, he added.

The Office of Homeland Security has elevated the alert level to Orange. Arriving and departing passengers should be advised of the following restrictions in place at Chicago's airports during this elevated alert period:

All vehicles entering Midway, O'Hare and Meigs Field will be subject to random inspection.
• Curbside drop-off and pick-up is permitted. No waiting in front the terminals. Ticketing and Towing will be enforced.
• Curbside check-in is permitted.
• Travelers should arrive to the airport at least two hours prior to flight departures.

Travelers are advised to monitor the status of airline flight schedules for any travel updates. The Chicago Airport System will continue to monitor the situation and advise the traveling public accordingly.