How long do I need for a layover at Chicago Ohare International (ORD)?
We recommend at least 50 minutes for a comfortable connection at Chicago Ohare International. The minimum connection time is 45 minutes for domestic flights and 75 minutes for international flights. Transit between terminals takes up to 30 minutes.
What is the minimum connection time at ORD?
Domestic-to-Domestic: 45 min. Domestic-to-International: 60 min. International-to-Domestic: 90 min. International-to-International: 75 min. These are the shortest layovers airlines will sell at Chicago Ohare International.
Is ORD easy to connect through?
O'Hare is one of the busiest connecting hubs in the US, split between United's Terminals 1 and 2 and American's Terminal 3, with international arrivals routed through the separate Terminal 5. Connections within the same terminal complex are quick and easy, but anything involving Terminal 5 or a switch between United and American sides adds significant time via the airport's train system. The Airport Transit System (ATS), an automated people-mover train, links Terminals 1, 2, 3, and the remote parking/Terminal 5 area in a loop, with rides typically taking 4-8 minutes plus walking to platforms. Passengers arriving internationally at Terminal 5 who are connecting to a domestic flight in Terminals 1-3 must clear US Customs and Border Protection, recheck bags, and go through TSA security again before boarding the train to their next gate.
Is 30 minutes enough for a layover at ORD?
Still well under standard minimum connection times, especially risky if terminals differ. See full 30 min guide →
Is 45 minutes enough for a layover at ORD?
This matches the domestic MCT exactly, so it's fine only if both flights are on time and in the same terminal. See full 45 min guide →
Is 1 hour enough for a layover at ORD?
Solid for domestic-domestic and workable for domestic-international transfers requiring extra document checks. See full 1 hr guide →
Is 1 hour 15 min enough for a layover at ORD?
Meets the international-international MCT with some cushion for ATS transit and gate walks. See full 1¼ hr guide →
Is 1½ hours enough for a layover at ORD?
Matches the international-to-domestic minimum, allowing time for customs, rechecking bags, and security. See full 1½ hr guide →
Is 2 hours enough for a layover at ORD?
Ample time for any terminal combination including international arrivals and rechecking through security. See full 2 hr guide →
Is 2½ hours enough for a layover at ORD?
Very safe buffer, covering delays in immigration lines or ATS train congestion. See full 2½ hr guide →
Is 3 hours enough for a layover at ORD?
More than enough time even during peak congestion or weather-related slowdowns. See full 3 hr guide →
Is 4 hours enough for a layover at ORD?
Excess time for any connection type, potentially allowing a terminal exploration or lounge visit. See full 4 hr guide →