O'Hare International Airport

International airport · Chicago, Illinois

Illustration of O'Hare International Airport

Overview

O'Hare International Airport is Chicago's main airport and one of the busiest in the world, a hub for United and American Airlines.

History

The airport began as Orchard Field, which is why its code is ORD. It was renamed in 1949 for Edward "Butch" O'Hare, a Navy pilot and Medal of Honor recipient.

Today

O'Hare is one of the region's largest employment centers, including aviation, hotel and cargo security.

Compiled October 2026. History is summarized for general interest; check primary sources for research. This landmark is local context, not an employer or job listing.