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NewsChicago Sun-TimesJuly 1, 2026United States

Chicago Expects Record-Breaking Fourth of July Travel

Chicago is preparing for its busiest Fourth of July travel period on record, with nearly 2 million passengers expected at city airports and heavy traffic on local roads. Officials are advising travelers to plan ahead, arrive early, and use designated waiting areas to manage the surge in volume.

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Why It Matters

Residents and visitors should anticipate significant delays at O'Hare and Midway airports and on major expressways through July 5, with higher fuel costs and increased congestion compared to previous years.

Key Facts

  • Chicago airports expect 1.95 million passengers between Wednesday and Monday.
  • O’Hare is projected to serve 1.62 million passengers; Midway is projected to serve 325,000.
  • Air travel in Chicago is expected to increase by 7% compared to last year.
  • The state average price for regular gasoline in Illinois is approximately $4.35 per gallon.
  • 4.29 million Illinois residents are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home during the holiday period.
  • United Airlines has increased seating and departures by 15% compared to last year.
  • Sunday is expected to be the busiest day at O'Hare, with over 300,000 passengers.
  • TSA expects to screen 18.7 million passengers nationally between Wednesday and July 6.
  • July 2 is projected to be the busiest day for national air travel, with over 3 million passengers.
  • Peak traffic congestion is expected to begin Thursday and continue through the weekend.
  • Chicago is ranked as the sixth most popular domestic destination for Independence Day travel.

Who's Mentioned

organizationAmerican Automobile Association“Provided travel projections and fuel cost data.”organizationUnited Airlines“Largest carrier at O'Hare, increasing capacity by 15%.”personBrandon Johnson“Mayor of Chicago who provided a statement on the travel volume.”organizationINRIX“Data analysis firm used for traffic congestion predictions.”locationO’Hare International Airport“Major airport expecting over 1.62 million passengers.”locationMidway International Airport“Major airport expecting over 325,000 passengers.”organizationTSA“Federal agency managing airport security screening.”organizationChicago Department of Aviation“City department managing airport operations and travel projections.”