Passengers with Special Needs at O'Hare

Chicago O'Hare Airport is equipped to assist travelers with reduced mobility and other special needs. However, the real experience can be challenging due to the airport's large size and logistical issues. This guide offers practical information and tips based on other travelers' experiences so you can navigate O’Hare as smoothly and respectfully as possible.

Quick Questions about Accessibility at O’Hare

How do I request a wheelchair? You must request it directly through your airline well in advance. Do not wait until you arrive at the airport, as availability is not guaranteed.
What is the biggest issue with mobility assistance? The long waits. Many travelers report significant delays in receiving wheelchair help, which can cause stress and missed connections.
Are there relief areas for service animals? Yes, relief areas are available both outside terminals 1, 2, and 5, and inside (past security) in terminals 1, 3, and 5.
Do I need special help at security? You can contact TSA Cares (+1 855 787 2227) before your trip to coordinate assistance at the security checkpoint.

Real Experience: A Not So Easy Airport to Walk

User Experience: O'Hare is a massive airport, and its design presents serious challenges for people with reduced mobility. The most universal complaint is the lack of moving walkways, making the long distances between gates and terminals a real obstacle. Travelers say that without requested assistance, it's almost impossible to get around if using a walker, crutches, or experiencing any difficulty walking long distances.

Wheelchair assistance, although provided by staff described as generally "friendly" and "helpful", suffers from logistics issues. Long waits for an assistant to arrive at the gate are common and can cause significant anxiety, especially during tight connections. Coordination between airlines and assistance providers is a clearly identified weakness by travelers.

Traveler Tip: The key is advanced planning. Request any needed assistance directly with your airline when booking and confirm it 48 hours before your flight. Be very clear about your needs to avoid misunderstandings.

Accessibility Facilities and Services

Restrooms & Changing Room

All airport restrooms are wheelchair-accessible. Additionally, there are gender-neutral/family restrooms at the following locations:

Terminal 1: B1, B10, C19, Baggage Claim.
Terminal 2: Near the Children’s Museum, E5, Baggage Claim.
Terminal 3: G11, rotunda, H2, H5, H12, K1, L10, L21, L24, Baggage Claim.
Terminal 5: Near security checkpoint, Food Court.
Multi-Modal Facility: Level 1, north and south escalator cores.

Additionally, there is a Changing Room equipped with a shower, lift, accessible toilets and sinks. Located in Terminal 2 (near Gate F3), reservations can be made HERE.

Physical Mobility & Access

Elevators: Available in all terminals, with Braille panels.
Wheelchair Assistance: Provided by each airline. It is essential to request it ahead of time, as waits at the airport can be long.
Ramps: All boarding and deboarding areas have ramps. Public spaces (restaurants, water fountains) comply with ADA standards.

Service Animal Relief Areas

Designated relief areas are available both outside terminals 1, 2, and 5, and inside (past security) in Terminal 1 (Gate B12), Terminal 3 (Rotunda), and Terminal 5 (Gate M8).

Security Assistance (TSA)

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers assistance for travelers with disabilities. You can contact TSA Cares at +1 855 787 2227 or via email at [email protected] to receive guidance and coordinate support before your journey.

Accessible Transportation

Parking

Accessible parking spaces are available near elevators and bus stops in all lots. However, not all spaces accommodate adapted vans.

Public Transportation

The CTA Blue Line train is elevator-equipped. All CTA trains and Pace buses are wheelchair-accessible.

Rideshare & Taxis

Both Uber and Lyft offer wheelchair-accessible vehicle (WAV) options through their apps. For taxis, you can request an accessible vehicle through staff at the taxi stands or by calling the dispatcher at +1 888 928 2227.