Busy Travel Expected in Chicago’s Roads and Airports Over Memorial Day Weekend 2026

CHICAGO (WLS) — The Memorial Day travel rush is expected to start Thursday.

Record-breaking travel is expected this weekend and this is also the first holiday travel period with the new Real ID requirement.

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TSA expects to screen about 18 million passengers between Thursday and next Wednesday over the Memorial Day travel period.

Nationwide, AAA predicts 45.1 million Americans will go somewhere, topping the record – set back in 2005.

In the local area between O’Hare and Midway airports, the Chicago Department of Aviation anticipates over 1.86 million travelers, representing a 5% rise compared to last year’s holiday season.

The Chicago Department of Aviation forecasts that Thursday will be the busiest day at O’Hare, whereas Midway is projected to have its peak traveler volume on Monday.

With the Kennedy Expressway construction, officials urge people to take public transit to O’Hare.

Of course, arrive early as TSA also deals with the new REAL ID requirements.

This will likely be one of the first major tests – for the real ID requirements, so definitely remember your REAL ID or passport to fly.