Frequently Asked Questions

What is the O’Hare Flyer?

O’Hare Flyer will be the first airport express rail service in America. This project will connect Chicago’s world class downtown with our world class airport in 15 minutes, running every 15 minutes. O’Hare Flyer will utilize commercially-available, industry-leading technology to provide a world-class rider experience: a fast, whisper-quiet, battery-electric train with a safe, comfortable ride for less than the cost of a rideshare or taxi.

Where will it run?

O’Hare Flyer will run express from Downtown Chicago to O’Hare International Airport (Terminal 2) along existing railroad right-of-way corridors.

Why is this needed?

Chicago travelers have long sought a faster, safer and more reliable way to get to and from O’Hare Airport. O’Hare Flyer will deliver a premium service on modern battery-electric trains with a 15-minute travel time and trains departing every 15 minutes.

Who is behind it?

O’Hare Flyer is being developed by a team of Chicago leaders invested in Chicago’s future. Our group includes experienced railroad executives as well as business and civic leaders, engineers, and world-class service providers. The team is committed to achieving a landmark first for Chicago and delivering the best airport rail express service in the world for the City we call home.

How will it be funded?

O’Hare Flyer is raising equity and debt capital. O’Hare Flyer builds on Chicago’s heritage as America’s rail capital and will be an economic engine for the City and the region.

How will it be built?

O’Hare Flyer will partner with local labor unions and diverse partners to bring this revolutionary vision to life.

What kind of experience will this provide?

O’Hare Flyer will redefine the Chicago air traveler’s experience with a safe, clean, world-class rider experience on a fast, whisper-quiet battery-electric train.

When will construction start?

O’Hare Flyer construction could begin as soon as 2028.

When will O’Hare Flyer be operational?

O’Hare Flyer could begin commercial service within five years.

What will a ride cost?

A trip on O’Hare Flyer between O’Hare and Downtown Chicago will be significantly less than the cost of a rideshare or taxi.

How can we support this project?

O’Hare Flyer is being developed by Chicagoans invested in Chicago’s future. We welcome public support to advance and secure approvals for this project. Our O’Hare Flyer Team invites everyone to join the discussion.

Visit ohareflyer.com/contact and sign up. Follow us on social media. Watch for calls to action!

What is the status of your relationship with the railroads?

O’Hare Flyer and CSX have reached agreement on terms and memorialized it in an extensive Letter of Intent (LOI). We are working to finalize definitive agreements with all three railroads.