The City of Chicago has released the first official video animation showing the planned design of the new Concourse D at O’Hare International Airport (ORD). This project is part of the wider ORDNext terminal redevelopment programme.
The preview was presented by Aviation Commissioner Michael McMurray during remarks at the City Club of Chicago, alongside an announcement from Mayor Brandon Johnson.
The two-minute animation outlines the layout and passenger areas of the 1.3 billion USD concourse, which is currently under construction south of Concourse C. The project is intended to expand gate capacity, support larger aircraft and update passenger facilities within O’Hare’s central terminal area.
Mayor Brandon Johnson said:O’Hare has long been one of Chicago’s great economic engines, and The New Concourse D represents the next great transformation for our city. This new gateway will strengthen global connections, create thousands of jobs, and showcase Chicago’s architectural excellence to travellers from around the world.
According to the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), Concourse D will include 19 flexible gates designed to handle either two narrow-body aircraft or one wide-body aircraft at each position. The flexibility is aimed at improving gate use and accommodating different aircraft types as airline fleets change.
The building has been designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merrill in partnership with Ross Barney Architects, Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects and engineering firm Arup. Plans show a multi-level interior with skylights, seating areas, concessions and landscaped sections overlooking the airfield. The design also includes spaces for lounges, retail and passenger amenities.
Commissioner Michael McMurray of the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) said:Concourse D introduces a new experience rooted in the city’s architectural legacy…a multi-level space will provide zones for resting, dining, shopping, and play, with skylights for an open, naturally lit environment. And at the south end of the concourse, the space opens up to lounge seating and landscaping that frame expansive views of the airfield. We’re proud to bring this new, welcoming gateway to the people of Chicago.
Ground was broken on Concourse D in 2025. Current construction activity includes foundation work, caisson drilling and structural steel installation. The CDA reports that work is being carried out while flight operations continue across the airport.
Concourse D is one of three major elements in the ORDNext programme, alongside the planned Concourse E and the O’Hare Global Terminal. The projects will be linked by an underground tunnel system. The CDA states that the wider programme is projected to increase overall gate capacity by about 14 per cent and add further passenger facilities.
Completion of Concourse D is scheduled for late 2028, subject to construction progress and programme timelines.
