UPDATE: The holiday travel rush is escalating in the Chicago area as thousands of travelers head out for the New Year. TSA anticipates 2025 will set another record for holiday travel, but weather conditions have already caused disruptions.
As of 10 a.m. today, O’Hare Airport reported 28 flight cancellations, primarily due to thick fog that rolled into the region, as tracked by ABC7 meteorologist Jaisol Martinez. Meanwhile, Midway Airport is also experiencing cancellations, adding to the travel chaos. Travelers are urged to check flight statuses before heading to the airports.
Passenger volume in Chicago is expected to rise by nearly 6% compared to last year’s travel period, highlighting the increasing demand for flights during the holiday season. The projected busiest travel day at O’Hare already occurred on December 20, but the peak at Midway is anticipated for Saturday, December 27.
Nationwide, the TSA is predicting the heaviest travel volume this Sunday, creating additional pressure on airport operations. Foggy conditions early this morning reduced visibility, but many travelers reported their plans remained largely uninterrupted. “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 forecasts that traffic will peak between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. today, making for a potentially stressful experience on the roads.
As travelers navigate through the bustling airports, the combination of increased passenger numbers and weather-related disruptions underscores the urgency for everyone to stay informed and plan accordingly. Travelers are encouraged to check real-time updates and arrive early to avoid any last-minute surprises.
With the holiday season drawing to a close, the ongoing developments in travel conditions are critical for anyone planning to return home after the festivities. Stay tuned for more updates as this situation evolves.
