UPDATE: Holiday travel in the Chicago area is surging as travelers rush to celebrate the New Year. TSA anticipates 2025 to set records for holiday travel, with significant activity already reported at O’Hare International Airport and Midway Airport.
By 10 a.m. today, O’Hare recorded 28 flight cancellations, primarily due to weather-related issues. Fog has reduced visibility, prompting caution among travelers. ABC7 meteorologist Jaisol Martinez is monitoring the ongoing weather conditions, impacting travel plans.
Passenger volume in Chicago is projected to increase nearly 6% compared to last year, indicating a robust holiday season. The busiest travel day at O’Hare occurred on December 20, while Midway anticipates its peak travel day on December 27. Nationwide, TSA forecasts the heaviest travel volume will occur this Sunday.
Despite the fog, travelers are largely proceeding with their plans. Dave Kelley, heading back to Florida after spending Christmas in Chicago, noted that the atmosphere remained calm. “Not too bad, no one’s yelling or anything like that. It’s fairly early, so everyone’s pretty chill,” said fellow traveler Kosi Ogbuli.
For those driving, expect heavy traffic today from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., according to AAA. With the combination of holiday festivities and weather challenges, travelers are advised to stay updated and plan accordingly.
As the holiday rush continues, authorities stress the importance of patience and preparation. With millions on the move, Chicago’s airports are a critical hub for New Year celebrations. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early and check flight statuses regularly to navigate through the busy travel period successfully.
