Where Is United Airlines at ORD? Terminal Insights for Travelers

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is one of the busiest and most vital aviation hubs in the United States. For travelers flying with United Airlines, navigating this massive airport can seem overwhelming—especially if you’re visiting for the first time or transferring between flights. A common question that arises is: what terminal is United Airlines at ORD?

The answer isn't as simple as naming a single terminal, as United Airlines operates out of both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with the majority of operations concentrated in Terminal 1. This article provides a detailed look at United’s presence at ORD—terminal locations, check-in counters, gate numbers, lounges, transit tips, and more. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or connecting, this guide is designed to ensure a smooth journey.

Section 1: What Terminal is United Airlines at ORD?

United Airlines primarily operates from Terminal 1 at Chicago O’Hare, which serves as its main hub. Terminal 1 is split into Concourse B and Concourse C, both of which are heavily utilized by United.

However, Terminal 2 is also partially used by United Airlines for regional flights operated by United Express.

Here’s a breakdown:

Terminal 1 (Concourse B & C) – United Airlines mainline domestic and international flights.
Terminal 2 (Concourse E & F) – Some United Express regional flights.

Summary:
If you're asking what terminal is United Airlines at ORD, the answer is Terminal 1 for most flights, and Terminal 2 for some regional connections.

Section 2: Terminal 1 – United’s Main Hub at ORD

Overview:
Terminal 1 is where the majority of United Airlines operations take place. It is a modern, sleek, and busy terminal that connects travelers to both domestic and international destinations.

Concourses:

Concourse B: Houses United check-in, security checkpoints, and gates B1–B22.
Concourse C: An underground tunnel connects B to C. This concourse includes gates C1–C31 and is typically used for international and transcontinental flights.

Check-In & Security:

United’s check-in counters are located at the front of Terminal 1.
Multiple security checkpoints serve the terminal, and TSA PreCheck and CLEAR services are available.

Gates:

Flights to major U.S. cities and international destinations depart from gates in B and C.
Concourse C, in particular, is equipped with wide-body aircraft gates for long-haul routes.

Dining and Shopping:

Terminal 1 offers a range of dining options, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. Popular options include Beaudevin Wine Bar, Starbucks, and Wolfgang Puck Express.
You’ll also find shops like Hudson News, Duty-Free, and tech stores.

Section 3: Terminal 2 – United Express Regional Flights

While Terminal 1 is United’s primary terminal, Terminal 2 is where you'll find many of the United Express flights—short-haul domestic connections often served by regional carriers like SkyWest or Republic Airways.

Concourses:

Concourse E and F serve United Express flights, with gates E1–E17 and F1–F28.

Connectivity:

Terminal 2 is connected via walkways and a shuttle bus system to Terminal 1, making transfers relatively easy.

Tip for Travelers:
If your itinerary includes a mix of a United mainline and United Express flight, double-check your departure terminal to avoid last-minute confusion.

Section 4: United Polaris Lounge and United Club Access

One of the perks of flying with United—especially in premium cabins—is access to its lounges. Here’s what you need to know about lounge options in United’s ORD terminals:

United Polaris Lounge (Terminal 1, Concourse C)

For international premium cabin travelers.
Offers upscale dining, showers, quiet suites, and business zones.
Entry is restricted to Polaris business class ticket holders or Star Alliance premium passengers.

United Club Lounges

Locations: Terminal 1 Concourse B (near gate B6), Concourse C (near gate C16), and Terminal 2 (near gate F4).
Access: Open to United Club members, Star Alliance Gold members, and those with eligible tickets.
Amenities: Complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating.

Section 5: Transfers Between Terminals

Chicago O’Hare is a large and busy airport, but United has made inter-terminal transfers relatively straightforward.

Walking Paths and Tunnel Connections:

Terminal 1’s Concourse B and C are connected via an underground tunnel, illuminated by neon artwork and music.
Terminal 2 is accessible by a short walk or shuttle from Terminal 1.

Airport Transit System (ATS):

The ATS is a free, automated train that connects all four terminals (1, 2, 3, and 5) with parking areas and the Multi-Modal Facility.
Ideal for transferring to/from Terminal 5 (international arrivals not served by United) or other airline connections.

Time Estimates:

Terminal 1 to Terminal 2: 5–10 minutes walk.
Terminal 1 to Terminal 5: 10–15 minutes via ATS.

Section 6: United Airlines Baggage Claim and Arrivals at ORD

If you are arriving at O’Hare on a United Airlines flight, here’s what to expect:

Domestic Arrivals: Baggage claim is located on the lower level of Terminal 1.
International Arrivals: United’s international flights use Terminal 5 for customs and immigration, then passengers are transported back to Terminals 1 or 2 for onward connections if necessary.

Baggage Services:

United has baggage service offices in both Terminals 1 and 2.
For delayed or damaged luggage, contact the United Airlines baggage service counter directly after landing.

Section 7: Ground Transportation and Parking Near United Terminals

Whether you're being picked up, renting a car, or catching a shuttle, here's what you need to know:

Pick-up & Drop-off:

Curbside pick-up and drop-off for United flights is available at Terminal 1.
Use designated areas and follow signs for arrivals and departures.

Rental Cars & Ride Shares:

All rental car companies operate from the Multi-Modal Facility, accessible via the ATS train.
Uber and Lyft pickups are available at Terminal 2 lower level (Door 2A), with signage throughout.

Parking Options:

Hourly Parking is closest to Terminal 1.
Economy Lots F & G offer more affordable long-term parking with shuttle access.

Section 8: Pro Tips for United Airlines Travelers at ORD

To make the most of your United Airlines experience at O’Hare, consider the following tips:

Check Terminal in Advance: Use the United Airlines app or your confirmation email to confirm whether you’re departing from Terminal 1 or 2.
Download the United App: It offers real-time gate info, digital boarding passes, upgrade status, and more.
Allow Extra Time: ORD is busy, especially during holidays. Arrive 2–3 hours before domestic flights and 3–4 hours before international departures.
Global Entry & TSA PreCheck: These can save significant time at security and customs.
Utilize Lounges: If eligible, use the United Club or Polaris Lounge for relaxation and productivity.
Know Your Gate: Concourse B and C are long—leave time to walk or use the moving walkways.
Connection Tips: If connecting between Terminals 1 and 2, the walk is short. But if connecting to Terminal 5, use the ATS and allow time for immigration.

Conclusion

Now that you know what terminal is United Airlines at ORD, you’re ready to navigate Chicago O’Hare like a pro. Whether you’re flying domestic or international, on United mainline or United Express, this guide ensures you know where to check in, which concourse to use, and how to transfer between terminals.

O’Hare is a massive, high-traffic airport, but with some planning and the right information, your travel experience with United can be smooth, efficient, and even enjoyable.

So next time you’re heading to or through Chicago, remember: Terminal 1 is your starting point—and Terminal 2 may be your bridge to regional destinations.

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