Passengers with special needs
Accessible services and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
O'Hare is equipped with various amenities for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility, including accessible restrooms, service animal relief areas, and accessible transportation. However, some passengers have reported delays in wheelchair assistance and a lack of clear signage, which can lead to confusion, especially during peak hours.
Restrooms
All restrooms located throughout the airport have wheelchair-accessible facilities. In addition, there are all-gender restrooms in all terminals.
- Terminal 1: B1, B10, C19, Baggage Claim
- Terminal 2: In front of the Children's Museum, E5, Baggage Claim
- Terminal 3: G11, Roundabout, H2, H5, H12, K1, L10, L21, L24, Baggage Claim
- Terminal 5: Next to the security checkpoint, Food Court
- Multi-Modal Facility: Level 1, north and south escalator core
Changing Room
This room offers restroom facilities, a shower, and other amenities for disabled passengers. It is equipped with a passenger lift, accessible toilets, sinks, emergency cords, and grab bars.
It is located in Terminal 2, near security checkpoint 5 (Gate F3). It can be reserved by clicking HERE.
Elevators
Elevators are available in all terminals, providing access to all passenger levels of the airport. They are equipped with Braille panels.
Reduced Mobility
Each airline offers wheelchair assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. User reviews suggest that this service can take longer during peak hours, causing additional stress. It is recommended to contact the airline before travel to ensure this service is available.
Relief areas for service animals
Outdoor areas are available outside terminals 1, 2, and 5, as well as at the Multi-Modal Facility. Indoor areas are located in terminals 1, 3, and 5.
Security
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers assistance to travelers with disabilities. You can contact TSA Cares for guidance before your trip.
Physical Accessibility
All boarding and drop-off areas are equipped with ramps. The public areas of the airport, including restrooms, restaurants, and water fountains, are ADA-compliant.
Parking
Accessible spaces are located near elevators and bus stops. However, not all spaces provide access for traditional accessible vans.
Public Transportation
The CTA Blue Line train station is equipped with elevators for passengers with reduced mobility. All CTA trains and Pace buses are accessible.
Ridesharing and Taxis
Uber and Lyft offer wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Accessible taxis can be requested through staff at taxi lines or by calling the city dispatcher at Tel +1 888 928 2227.
Accessibility: Services for passengers with special needs
O'Hare is equipped with a variety of services for passengers with reduced mobility and other special needs. These include access ramps, accessible restrooms, boarding assistance, and wheelchairs available upon request. Reviews on accessibility are generally positive, although some passengers have expressed that wheelchair service can take longer than expected, especially during peak hours.
Passengers with visual or hearing impairments can also benefit from signage and visual announcements, although some reviews indicate that navigation within the terminals could be improved, especially in areas with less staff available. One traveler mentioned that while the staff was very helpful, the delay in receiving wheelchair assistance caused stress, particularly during flight connections.
In other cases, some passengers have praised the positive attitude of employees who assist with reduced mobility, although they recommend tipping the attendants, who, according to comments, "work hard" to provide the best service.
Passenger Tip:
To ensure a more efficient experience, travelers recommend requesting assistance in advance and confirming that the necessary services are available before the flight. It is also useful to reconfirm support for connections or long flights.