Two new satellite concourses, Satellite 1 and Satellite 2, will play a significant role in transforming the face of O'Hare.
Satellite Concourse 1 is the first major component of the once-in-a-generation expansion and modernization project known as the O'Hare 21 Terminal Area Plan. The project will add 19 new gates as an extension of the existing Concourse C, and it's designed to flexibly accommodate different sizes of aircraft bodies, increasing operational efficiency for carriers and reducing layover transfers for passengers at one of the nation's busiest airports.
Work on the project began in March 2023 with the construction of several temporary taxiways and a new grade separated roadway, the reconfiguration of Taxiway B, and the construction of three new temporary gates off Concourse C.
Satellite 1 is the first major component of the much larger Terminal Area Plan, which includes as its chief components two new satellite concourses, a new O'Hare Global Terminal replacing Terminal 2, and an underground tunnel connecting the facilities.
Mayor Johnson joined local leaders to unveil architectural renderings for Satellite Concourse 1 in May 2024. The unique design was led by renowned Chicago architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill with Ross Barney Architects, Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects, and Arup.
Satellite Concourse 1 is anticipated to create more than 3,800 construction jobs. The current timeline calls for the completion of the Satellite Concourse 1 as an extension of Concourse C in 2028.
The Chicago Architecture Center hosted a panel discussion in September 2024 on the design of Satellite Concourse 1 at O’Hare International Airport. Participating in the presentation were key members of the concourse's design team, including Ryan Culligan of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, Barrett Peterson of Ross Barney Architects, and Juan Gabriel Moreno of JGMA. The panel discussion was moderated by Ann Thompson, executive vice president of architecture and design at Related Midwest.