O'Hare Global Terminal Will Finish by 2033
The massive Chicago airport modernization project is now slated to reach completion in 2033.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Air Travel
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Chicago O'Hare International Airport has delayed the completion of its new Global Terminal until 2033. The modernization program, which replaces the existing Terminal 2, will cost at least $8.5 billion.
Why it matters
The project must navigate the complexities of constructing in an active airport environment while prioritizing gate capacity. Officials are now focusing on completing Concourse E first to manage immediate passenger demand.
The planned Global Terminal will encompass 2.2 million square feet and represents part of a program to increase O'Hare's gate capacity by 25%. New Concourse E construction starts in late 2026, aiming to add 14 gates by 2030.
The players
United Airlines
This major carrier is a primary stakeholder in the O'Hare terminal modernization agreement.
American Airlines
This airline collaborated with the City of Chicago to finalize terms for the airport's expansion project.
Illinois Department of Transportation
The state agency is currently managing the Request for Qualifications process for a private partner for the South Suburban Airport.
Southwest Airlines
The carrier holds a 91.1% market share at Chicago's Midway International Airport.
The details
United Airlines and American Airlines secured a formal agreement with the City of Chicago in May 2024 to align on the scope and costs of the modernization. Concurrently, the Illinois Department of Transportation is seeking a private developer for the proposed South Suburban Airport in Will County to address regional cargo and aviation needs.
Timeline
May 2024: Airlines and Chicago reached a terminal project agreement.
May 7, 2026: South Suburban Airport Request for Qualifications addendum was issued.
Late 2026: Groundbreaking is expected for O'Hare's new Concourse E.
2030: Planned completion of O'Hare's new Concourse E.
2033: Anticipated completion of O'Hare's new Global Terminal.
Roadmap
The development of the South Suburban Airport follows the Illinois Department of Transportation's Public-Private Partnership framework. This strategy marks a departure from traditional state-funded aviation infrastructure as the region seeks to balance capacity across multiple hubs.
Travelers should expect construction-related activity and potential gate changes as O'Hare proceeds with its phased modernization. The eventual expansion aims to provide increased gate capacity, which may improve overall throughput and flight scheduling efficiency for passengers.
The takeaway
The multi-year timeline for O'Hare reflects the logistical challenges of upgrading massive infrastructure while maintaining daily operations. Travelers should plan for ongoing construction disruptions as the city balances these upgrades with long-term regional capacity goals.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing aviation infrastructure shifts, visit the Air Travel section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Simple Flying.
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