UPDATE: The holiday travel rush is in full swing in the Chicago area as travelers head out for the New Year. The TSA predicts 2025 will be a record-setting year for holiday travel, but challenges are already emerging. As of 10 a.m. today, 28 flights have been cancelled at O’Hare Airport, primarily due to foggy weather conditions.
Traffic at both O’Hare and Midway Airports is expected to surge, with passenger volume projected to rise nearly 6% compared to last year. The busiest day at O’Hare has already passed on December 20, while Midway’s peak day is anticipated on December 27.
According to ABC7 meteorologist Jaisol Martinez, fog has impacted visibility, causing disruptions early this morning. Yet, travelers remain surprisingly calm amid the chaos. “Not too bad, no one’s yelling or anything like that. It’s fairly early, so everyone’s pretty chill,” said traveler Kosi Ogbuli.
For those opting to drive, AAA warns that traffic is expected to be heaviest today between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. The combination of increased passenger traffic and challenging weather conditions creates an urgent situation for travelers heading into the New Year.
As the holiday travel period reaches its peak, officials urge travelers to stay informed and plan accordingly. With increasing numbers of travelers expected, staying updated on flight statuses and road conditions is critical for a smooth journey.
What to Watch For: Stay tuned for further updates on travel conditions, and prepare for potential delays as the holiday travel rush continues to unfold across the Chicago area.
