O’Hare International Airport is the bustling hub of the Windy City. You might think you know everything there is to know about this aviation marvel, but hold onto your airplane peanuts, because we’ve got 10 things that will have you saying, “I never knew that.” in between sips of your overpriced airport coffee.
1. The Airport That Time Forgot:
O’Hare has its very own time zone. Okay, not really, but it does have a little piece of history called “O’Hare Time.” Before the rest of the world switched to Central Standard Time in 1940, O’Hare was already operating on CST. They were ahead of their time, literally.
2. The Ghosts of O’Hare:
Rumor has it that O’Hare is haunted by the ghosts of travelers who missed their connecting flights. If you listen closely, you might hear them whispering, “Gate B12 is cursed.”
3. Underground Magic:
O’Hare has a secret underground tunnel that connects terminals. No, it’s not for escaping from long security lines, but it sure feels like magic when you hop on the neon-colored moving walkways and zoom to your gate like you’re in a futuristic movie.
4. The Veggie Invasion:
O’Hare serves up some serious veggie power. In 2019, it ranked as the second-best airport in North America for vegan food options. Move over, meat, it’s all about that plant-based life.
5. A Whole Lot of Runways:
O’Hare is like the runway supermodel of airports. With a whopping total of 10 runways, it’s the busiest in the world. Who knew planes needed so much room to show off their moves?
6. X-Ray Vision: Luggage Edition:
Ever wonder what happens to your checked bags? O’Hare has a team of baggage handlers who use X-ray machines to peek inside your luggage without even opening it. Don’t worry; they’re not looking for your embarrassing sock collection.
7. The Tortoise and the Hare:
O’Hare’s original name was Orchard Field Airport. It wasn’t until 1949 that it was renamed in honor of Edward “Butch” O’Hare, a World War II hero. The slow-moving tortoise became a speedy hare.
8. Runway Roulette:
O’Hare’s runways have magnetic headings, which means they’re aligned with the Earth’s magnetic field. So, if you’re ever playing a high-stakes game of runway roulette, remember to bring a compass.
9. The Art of Travel:
O’Hare isn’t just about planes and peanuts. It’s got an impressive collection of art scattered throughout the terminals. So, if you find yourself with extra time before your flight, you can become a cultured jet-setter.
10. The O’Hare Zoo:
No, it’s not a wildlife sanctuary, but O’Hare does have its own collection of critters. Peregrine falcons call the airport home, swooping down to keep the pigeon population in check. Talk about a natural predator-prey relationship.
So, next time you find yourself at O’Hare International Airport, remember that it’s not just a place to catch flights; it’s a place filled with quirks, history, and maybe a ghost or two. Enjoy your layover and remember to keep an eye out for runway-hopping tortoises – you never know what you might discover at this aviation wonderland.