Chicagoans are expected to see their busiest Fourth of July travel period in recent memory, with nearly 2 million passengers moving through the city’s airports this weekend, and more traveling on the road.
The Chicago Department of Aviation expects a 7% increase in air travel compared to last year. From Wednesday through Monday, Chicago’s airports are expected to see a total of 1.95 million passengers beween them, with O’Hare serving more than 1.62 million passengers and Midway projected to welcome more than 325,000.
“As our nation celebrates its 250th birthday, Chicago is proud to welcome millions of travelers to a city that has helped shape America’s history, culture and future,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said in a statement. “This record-breaking holiday travel period reflects the strength of our airports and the enduring appeal of Chicago.”
It will also be busy on the roads, with American Automobile Association expecting heavy traffic both locally and nationwide. AAA projects 72.2 million Americans — including 4.29 Illinois residents — will travel at least 50 miles from home during the holiday period that started this past Saturday and continues through Sunday, July 5.
According to AAA, Chicago ranks as the sixth most popular domestic destination for Independence Day travel.
“For many families, traveling for Independence Day isn’t just a trip, it’s a tradition,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “With an extended holiday travel period, we expect busy roads, steady demand for flights, and continued interest in cruises across many parts of the country.”
Due to the ongoing high fuel prices, drivers in Illinois should expect to pay more at the pumps than last year. The state average price for regular gasoline is around $4.35 per gallon, compared to last year’s national average of $3.15, according to AAA. The organization noted careful trip planning and mapping fuel stops can help offset higher costs.
“Even with ongoing volatility at the pump, being flexible and planning ahead can help drivers manage fuel costs this Independence Day.” Molly Hart, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group said in a statement.
Traffic also is expected to be high throughout the period. AAA used projections from the data analysis firm INRIX to predict peak congestion throughout the period. The congestion likely will begin Thursday and continue through the weekend. Drivers are encouraged to travel early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid delays.
AAA also noted driving during holiday festivities can be dangerous, with more teen drivers and impaired drivers behind the wheel. AAA emphasized the importance of driving safely throughout the holiday period.
Sunday is expected to be the busiest day of the holiday period for O’Hare, with more than 300,000 passengers. The airport’s largest carrier, United Airlines, said it has increased seating and departures by 15% compared with last year to meet demand.
As for air travel security, TSA released a statement saying it expects to screen nearly 18.7 million passengers nationally from Wednesday through Monday, July 6. TSA expects July 2 to be the highest air travel day, with more than 3 million travelers expected. Officials urge passengers to arrive early and remind them to have all necessary documents before heading to the airport.
Airport officials also recommend travelers check security requirements in advance and allow extra time due to those longer-than-usual holiday lines.
The city’s Department of Aviation encourages drivers picking up passengers from either airport to reduce congestion at the terminals by using the cell phone waiting lots.