Major Changes in O’Hare Operations
Begin Today
Beginning October 17, 2013
operations at O’Hare have changed
from a layout started in the 1960s and expanded upon for
decades to East-West operations. The result is a major
change for both pilots and controllers in how O’Hare
conducts operations. Be alert for possible confusion until
everyone becomes familiar with the new operations. As
always, if there is any doubt as to control instructions
that you are given, query the controller.Highlights of the changes include:
- Runway 10C/28C officially opens 0400 LCL.
- During normal operations, all arrivals will be on the East-West runways 9L/27R, 9R/27L, and 10L/28R.
- Departures will normally use runways 4L, 9R, and 10L for East flow, with runways 32L, 28R, and 22L used for West flow.
- Normal operations on 10L/28R will use intersection departures (10,000 ft. plus runway available) to reduce delays. Full-length runway departures are available upon request.
- New West point-to-point departure routes with multiple routes and transitions provide greater flexibility for more fuel-efficient routes while accommodating increased traffic volume. Expect a vector after departure to a waypoint on the departure routes.
- Three Ground Control positions go into effect for all operations—North Field, Center Field, and South Field.
- Standardized taxi routes to and from runways will eliminate aircraft crossings in front of departures. Expect to cross behind intersection departures on 10L/28R.
- Standard taxi route for runway 28R intersection EE departure requires strict adherence to diagonal taxi centerline from Taxiway N to EE to avoid encroachment on path of opposite direction arrival aircraft. Click
here for FAA diagram.
- Due to limited holding areas on taxi routes around Terminal Core, flight crews should advise ATC of
anticipated gate and gate availability ASAP after landing to avoid excessive taxi delays.
Other important changes:
- CAUTION—O’Hare has opted NOT to include runway 10R/28L, currently under construction, on the airport diagram until construction is completed. Do not expect to see a complete runway south of runway 10C/28C.
- Taxiway Z, expected to open on October 7, will substantially shorten taxi time for 27R arrivals.
The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) maintains a pilot-awareness website at
www.flychicago.com/ohare/en/aboutus/pilotawareness/pilot-awareness.aspx. Additional information on the O’Hare Modernization Project may be posted by CDA at that site.
If you have any questions, please contact ALPA Engineering and Air Safety at
EAS@alpa.org or 800-424-2470.