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
Ambler Airport (ABL) is a remote, state-owned public-use airport located in the Native Alaskan village of Ambler, within the Northwest Arctic Borough. It serves as an indispensable lifeline for this isolated community, as there are no connecting roads. The airport's infrastructure is extremely basic, reflecting its role as a bush airport. There is no traditional terminal building; instead, operations are conducted from a small, heated shelter or a designated waiting area adjacent to the gravel runway. This single facility serves as the waiting lounge, check-in area, and baggage claim point.
The airport is equipped with two gravel runways, the longest measuring 3,000 feet, operating at an elevation of 334 feet above mean sea level. This design accommodates the small aircraft, typically Twin Otters or Cessnas, that are vital for connecting Ambler to larger regional hubs. Passengers should anticipate a highly informal process, with direct interactions with pilots and airline representatives from operators like Bering Air.
Amenities at Ambler Airport are exceptionally sparse. There are no cafes, restaurants, vending machines, or shops on-site. Travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary provisions, including food, water, and personal supplies. Security procedures are minimal, consistent with bush flying operations in remote Alaska, focusing on adherence to general aviation safety guidelines.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections at Ambler Airport are exclusively through domestic bush flights, with Bering Air being the primary operator. These flights are crucial for linking Ambler with larger regional centers like Kotzebue (OTZ) and, occasionally, Shungnak (SHG). Kotzebue's Ralph Wien Memorial Airport serves as the main hub from which most flights to Ambler originate, providing essential connections to Anchorage and other Alaskan cities. This ensures vital access for supplies and personnel to the remote community.\n\nTravel to Ambler is highly dependent on weather conditions and daylight hours. Flights are often subject to delays or cancellations due to adverse weather, including snow, fog, or high winds, which are common in arctic Alaska. It is crucial to maintain flexible travel plans and to confirm your flight status directly with Bering Air or your charter operator. There are no inter-airline baggage transfer services; all luggage is handled manually upon arrival and departure. Always prepare for the unexpected in this challenging environment.\n\nGround transportation in Ambler is limited and primarily relies on local community members or pre-arranged pickups. There are no taxis or rental cars readily available at the airport. Given the extreme conditions and isolation, self-sufficiency is paramount. It is vital to coordinate all onward travel details, including accommodation and local transport, well in advance of your arrival. Having a clear plan for your ground logistics is as important as your flight plan when traveling to such a remote destination.
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