What terminal is international flights at Chicago airport?

Navigating O’Hare: Where to Find Your International Flight in Chicago

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a bustling hub, and knowing which terminal your international flight arrives at—or departs from—is crucial for a smooth journey. While the airport’s layout can seem daunting, understanding the flow of international arrivals simplifies the process considerably.

The primary terminal for international arrivals at O’Hare is Terminal 5. This is where the majority of international flights land, and it’s where you’ll go through customs and immigration. Upon arrival at Terminal 5, follow the clearly marked signs for customs and immigration processing. After clearing these procedures, you’ll collect your baggage.

However, the story isn’t quite that simple for all international travelers. The presence of pre-clearance customs facilities at some international airports significantly alters the arrival experience at O’Hare.

Pre-clearance and its impact:

Many international airports offer U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) pre-clearance facilities. Passengers who use these facilities complete customs and immigration procedures before boarding their flight to O’Hare. This means they bypass the lengthy lines at Terminal 5 upon arrival in Chicago. Instead, they are processed as domestic arrivals and will likely find themselves in one of the following terminals depending on their connecting flight:

• Terminals 1, 2, or 3: Passengers who have pre-cleared customs at their origin airport will often proceed directly to baggage claim in one of these terminals, depending on their connecting flight’s departure gate. It’s vital to check your flight information and connecting gate details to determine your final destination within O’Hare after pre-clearance.

In short:

• International arrivals without pre-clearance: Terminal 5.
• International arrivals with pre-clearance: Terminals 1, 2, or 3. Check your flight itinerary carefully to determine your arrival terminal.

To avoid confusion, always confirm your arrival terminal on your airline’s website or app, your boarding pass, or by contacting your airline directly. Paying close attention to these details ensures a smoother and less stressful experience when navigating the complexities of Chicago O’Hare International Airport.