Chicago Takes Flight: O’Hare Crowned America’s Busiest Airfield
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago's O'Hare International Airport has once again claimed the title of the busiest airfield in the United States, according to newly released preliminary data from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Mayor Brandon Johnson made the announcement today, revealing that in 2025, a total of 857,392 aircraft landed or took off from O'Hare, surpassing all other airports in America.

While final global rankings and passenger figures for 2025 are still pending, the FAA's operations data confirms what Chicagoans already know - O'Hare is the beating heart of American aviation and a cornerstone of the nation's economy. Mayor Johnson expressed his pride in this achievement, stating that it is more than just a statistic but a statement about Chicago's momentum.

"From the runways of O'Hare to the neighborhoods across our city, Chicago is building, growing, and leading," said Mayor Johnson. "We are open for business, open to the world, and once again setting the pace for the nation."

O'Hare's return to the top spot reflects a powerful post-pandemic recovery, highlighting the strength of Chicago's workforce and the impact of sustained investment in airport modernization, airfield capacity, and global connectivity. As the best-connected airport in the country, O'Hare serves as a gateway not only to Chicago but also to the Midwest, nation and world.

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Commissioner Michael McMurray of the Chicago Department of Aviation emphasized that each flight represents jobs, commerce, tourism and opportunity. He credited this achievement to their dedicated team at CDA and key airline partners such as United Airlines and American Airlines who work tirelessly to keep O'Hare running smoothly.

"Our CDA team and our key airline partners move mountains every day to keep O'Hare running at this busy level," said Commissioner McMurray. "This achievement belongs to them - and to the people of Chicago."

This milestone highlights the need for continued investment in Chicago's multi-billion-dollar ORDNext program, which aims to expand capacity, improve the passenger experience, and prepare the airport for the next generation of global air travel. This includes the $1.3 billion New Concourse D, which is set to be completed in late 2028.

Phil Clement, President & CEO of World Business Chicago, emphasized the importance of O'Hare's global connectivity for companies looking to locate, expand or invest. He stated that access to markets, talent and customers is critical and O'Hare sits at the center of that equation. Clement also highlighted the significance of continued investment in Chicago's airports, including ORDNext and the new Concourse D.

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Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago - the city's official destination marketing organization - also weighed in on this achievement. She stated that O'Hare is more than just an international transportation hub but also serves as a front door for millions of visitors every year. Reynolds believes that having the busiest airport in America reinforces Chicago's position as a global hub for both business and leisure travel.

Preliminary data also shows that Midway International Airport ranked 38th in the nation for takeoffs and landings in 2025 with a total of 210,930. This further highlights Chicago's strength as a dual-hub system, with Midway playing a critical role in serving millions of business and leisure travelers last year.

Commissioner McMurray concluded by stating that with an aircraft taking off or landing every 30 seconds at both O'Hare and Midway in 2025, Chicago's dual-airport system is unmatched by any other U.S. city.

While official rankings from Airports Council International are expected to be released later this summer, preliminary global data expected early this spring is likely to confirm O'Hare as the busiest airfield in the world. This achievement solidifies Chicago's position as a leader in aviation and a global hub for both business and leisure travel.

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