Transformation to create Chicago airport jobs
Posted on March 2, 2018
A new plan may create many more Chicago airport jobs.
Chicago and its airline partners will create tens of thousands of jobs and transform O’Hare International Airport with the biggest terminal expansion ever, adding 25 percent more gate capacity, modernizing existing terminals and improving passengers’ experience.
“This plan is not just a game changer for O’Hare, it is a turning point for Chicago that will create tens of thousands of jobs for Chicagoans and strengthen our great city’s position as a national and global leader in travel, tourism and trade for generations,” said Mayor Emanuel. “My goal is to make O’Hare the best airport in the country, and I want to thank our airline partners for recognizing the value of this investment. We are looking forward to moving full steam ahead on this transformational plan that represents a watershed moment in Chicago’s economic future.”
The project will create 60,000 construction jobs through 2026 and ensures one of the City’s economic engines is positioned to drive significant growth for the region in the years and decades to come. Through the plans outlined in the agreement, passengers traveling through O’Hare will enjoy better customer service, fewer delays, more choices for travel, and a seamless journey to their destination.
“This agreement is a win for O’Hare and our customers, thanks to the investments the City and our airline partners are making to ensure our top connected airport is positioned to grow for the future,” said Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Ginger S. Evans. “Our plans will put O’Hare at the forefront of the industry, providing the absolute best value when it comes to customer service, efficiency and innovation. At the same time, we are committed to ensuring O’Hare’s economic power also strengthens our community, and will ensure that our investments bring more opportunities for all Chicagoans.”
The announcement marks the first major capital improvements to O’Hare’s terminals in more than 25 years. A new Terminal Area Plan for O’Hare will completely redevelop the terminals and concourses, with Terminal 5 to undergo an upgrade and expansion, Terminal 2 to be largely demolished and rebuilt to include a brand new international arrivals facility, and renovations made to Terminals 1 and 3. These changes will expand gate capacity and set in motion a wide range of other improvements to significantly enhance airline performance and the overall passenger experience.
“As Chicago’s hometown airline, we are looking forward to continuing our investment in O’Hare and building our largest hub into the world-class airport this world-class city deserves,” said Oscar Munoz, United’s chief executive officer. “The improvements in our new agreement will help ensure we provide a superior travel experience for the more than 36 million United customers who fly through O’Hare each year. We thank Mayor Emanuel and Commissioner Evans for their ongoing support, and we look forward to collaborating further on this exciting project.”