Do you have to go through security again for a connecting flight in Chicago?

Connecting Flights in Chicago: Do You Need to Go Through Security Again?

Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a major hub, meaning many travelers connect through it. Understanding the security procedures for connecting flights is crucial to avoid delays and unnecessary stress. The answer to the question, “Do I need to go through security again for a connecting flight in Chicago?” is: it depends.

Specifically, it depends on which terminals your flights depart from and arrive at. O’Hare has several terminals, and moving between them significantly impacts the security process.

If your connecting flight departs from the same terminal: If both your arrival and departure flights use Terminals 1, 2, or 3, you will likely not need to go through TSA security again. While you may need to navigate a considerable distance between gates, you’ll be remaining airside, within the secured area of the airport. O’Hare offers a convenient, free Airport Transit System (ATS) – an automated people mover – operating 24/7 to transport passengers between terminals and concourses. This efficient system minimizes travel time within the secure zone.

If your connecting flight departs from a different terminal: However, if your arriving flight lands in one terminal (e.g., Terminal 5) and your connecting flight departs from a different terminal (e.g., Terminal 1), you will almost certainly need to go through TSA security screening a second time. This is because you will be exiting the secured area to transfer between terminals. Allow ample time for this process, especially during peak travel periods. The ATS will not transport you between terminals in this scenario; you’ll need to go through public areas to access the different terminal.

Planning Ahead is Key: To avoid unexpected delays, always check your flight information carefully and note the terminal numbers for both your arrival and departure flights. Factor in extra time for security screening, particularly if a terminal transfer is involved. Building in a buffer of at least two hours for domestic connections and three hours for international connections is a generally sound practice at O’Hare, regardless of whether a second security check is required. Utilizing the online flight tracking tools provided by O’Hare and your airline can also help you monitor the status of your connecting flight and better anticipate potential delays. By understanding the airport’s layout and security procedures, you can ensure a smoother and less stressful travel experience through Chicago O’Hare.