โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
40
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
International โ Domestic
90
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
OโHare International Airport has four terminals: Terminals 1, 2, and 3 form a horseshoe connected by airside walkways, while Terminal 5 handles most international flights and sits across the airfield. The Airport Transit System (ATS) train links all terminals, parking, and the rental car center on a frequent loop.
Walking between concourses inside the domestic complex is straightforwardโConcourses B and C in Terminal 1 are joined by the underground neon tunnel (5โ7 minutes end to end), Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 takes about 8โ10 minutes, and Terminal 3โs farthest gates are 12โ15 minutes from Terminal 1 via secure corridors. Travel to Terminal 5 requires exiting or riding the ATS from the domestic terminals; the train ride is about 8 minutes with another few minutes of platform access.
Each terminal hosts multiple TSA checkpoints with PreCheck and CLEAR lanes; the main checkpoints in Terminals 1 and 3 open earliest for banked morning departures. Typical waits run 15โ25 minutes, but peaks before 7 a.m. or during holiday afternoons can exceed 35 minutes, so the TSA โMyTSAโ feed is useful for live estimates. Re-entry from Terminal 5 to domestic gates requires clearing security again.
Immigration and customs for most international arrivals are handled in Terminal 5โs expansive arrivals hall with Global Entry, Mobile Passport, and baggage re-check desks for onward connections. Certain precleared arrivals from Canada and select international flights on United or American may use facilities in Terminals 1 or 3, but transfer passengers should follow airline-specific signs before boarding the ATS.
Amenities are extensive: United Polaris and United Club lounges populate Terminal 1, Delta Sky Club sits in Terminal 2, and Americanโs Admirals Clubs and Flagship Lounge anchor Terminal 3. Terminal 5 offers lounges for Delta, Air France/KLM, British Airways, and others, plus a large dining court. Nursing rooms are available in every terminal, โKids on the Flyโ play areas sit near Gates F1 and in Terminal 2โs rotunda, and all concourses provide elevators, moving walkways, and adult-changing stations for accessibility.
๐ Connection Tips
ORD is a major hub with extensive domestic and international connections. Terminal 5 transfers require re-security screening. ATS runs every 5 minutes.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE), located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, serves as a vital regional gateway to the Lehigh Valley and Eastern Pennsylvania. It offers a less congested and more convenient travel experience compared to larger metropolitan hubs. The airport features a single, modern terminal building spread across two levels, designed for efficient passenger processing and easy navigation. The lower level is dedicated to arrivals, housing baggage claim, car rental counters, and exits to ground transportation. The upper level manages departures, with ticket counters, airline check-in desks, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening checkpoint.
The airport continually invests in enhancing its passenger facilities. A recent TSA Checkpoint Terminal Connector Project has significantly upgraded the security area, incorporating up to four screening lanes, modern escalators and elevators, and an enhanced air purification system. The terminal is structured with two main concourses: Concourse A on the ground level serves airlines like Allegiant Air, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, while Concourse B on the upper level is utilized by United Airlines and Frontier Airlines.
Amenities at ABE are well-appointed for a regional facility, including several cafes and snack bars, shops for essentials and souvenirs, and free Wi-Fi throughout. ABE also offers family-friendly amenities such as a children's play area, a sensory room, and a therapy dog program, along with occasional live music performances, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
๐ Connection Tips
Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) is primarily a domestic airport, with most connections occurring within the United States. Its compact single-terminal design significantly simplifies the connection process, as there's no need for shuttle buses or trains between terminals, and walking times between gates are typically short. However, all connecting passengers, including those on domestic flights, must pass through a TSA security checkpoint. Travelers should be prepared to place all electronics and liquids (up to 2 liters) in separate trays for X-ray screening, as per TSA regulations.\n\nFor any onward domestic flights, it's recommended to allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours between flights, especially during peak travel times or early morning departures, to ensure ample time for security and gate transfers. While ABE does not handle international immigration or customs directly, passengers connecting from an international flight at a larger gateway (like Philadelphia or Newark) to ABE should account for the time required to clear those formalities at their initial point of entry into the U.S.\n\nABE offers convenient options for expedited security screening, including dedicated lanes for TSA PreCheck and the CLEAR program, which can significantly reduce wait times. Ground transportation to and from the airport is readily available, with taxis, ride-sharing services, and car rental companies all operating on-site. Local LANTA bus services also connect the airport to various points in the Lehigh Valley.
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