Summary: United 750 daily flights from Chicago O'Hare will be the largest single-airline schedule ever at ORD for summer 2026, serving 222 nonstop destinations, adding routes across the Midwest and hiring about 2,500 staff.

United 750 daily flights from Chicago O'Hare will mark a milestone for the carrier and for ORD. United Airlines has announced plans to operate 750 daily departures from Chicago O’Hare International Airport during the summer 2026 season, the largest schedule ever flown by a single airline at the airport.

A record-setting summer schedule at ORD

Under the carrier’s summer 2026 plan, United will operate 750 daily departures from Chicago O’Hare and will link the hub to 222 nonstop destinations. That network includes 47 international cities and 175 U.S. cities, reinforcing ORD’s role as a global gateway.

New routes and Midwest connectivity

United said the expanded schedule will add routes across the Midwest, increasing service to both major markets and smaller regional communities. The move is designed to improve direct connections and reduce the need for lengthy connections through other hubs.

  • Daily departures: 750 (record single-airline schedule at ORD)
  • Nonstop destinations: 222 total (47 international; 175 U.S.)
  • Regional boost: additional Midwest routes to serve smaller communities

What United says about operations and service

To support the larger schedule, United plans to hire roughly 2,500 additional employees at O’Hare. The airline is also rolling out customer-facing and operational improvements to match its expanded footprint.

  • Staffing: about 2,500 new hires at ORD
  • Lounge access: expanded and redesigned facilities
  • Technology: improved check-in systems and operational tools
  • Connectivity: aircraft upgrades and plans for complimentary Starlink Wi‑Fi rollout
United Airlines jets at Chicago O'Hare apron with terminals in the background, illustrating increased flight operations
United’s expanded summer schedule will increase aircraft movements and passenger throughput at Chicago O’Hare

Competitive and economic implications

United’s 750-flight schedule strengthens its competitive position at O’Hare, challenging rivals for market share and gate access. That market pressure could influence fares, loyalty strategies and long-term airport planning.

  • Competitive dominance: more flights can secure gate allocations and passenger flows
  • Economic uplift: higher demand for hotels, ground transport and airport services
  • Infrastructure effects: potential for further investment in cargo and passenger facilities

Long-term outlook for U.S. aviation and travellers

While the expansion is timed for summer demand, industry observers say the move could have lasting effects on route networks and global connectivity. Increased international feed and more direct options may make Chicago an even more important crossroads for travel and trade.

For consumers, the near-term benefits include more departure choices, improved connections and potentially more competitive fares. However, a much larger schedule could also intensify competition and pressure on airport capacity, prompting airlines to innovate on pricing and passenger processing.

What this means for travellers and the industry

So what? United’s plan to run 750 daily departures at Chicago O’Hare this summer signals easier connections for passengers, stronger access for Midwestern communities and a sharper competitive landscape among U.S. carriers. Travellers can expect more nonstop options and improved onboard connectivity, while the region may see job growth and increased tourism activity.