This article is based on an official press release from the City of Chicago.

O’Hare Unveils “Orchard-Inspired” Vision for New Concourse D

On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) released a detailed animated preview of “The New Concourse D” at O’Hare International Airports. Formerly known as Satellite Concourse 1, this $1.3 billion infrastructure project represents a pivotal phase in the airport’s massive ORDNext expansion program.

According to the official announcement, the new facility is currently under construction following a groundbreaking ceremony in August 2025. Scheduled to open to the public in late 2028, Concourse D is designed to modernize the passenger experience with a focus on wellness, natural light, and operational flexibility. The project is being led by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), alongside partners Ross Barney Architects and Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects (JGMA).

The newly released video highlights a dramatic shift in design philosophy for the airport, moving away from industrial aesthetics toward a “nature-infused” environment that pays homage to the site’s history.

Design Philosophy: Returning to the Orchard

The central theme of the new concourse is a direct nod to O’Hare’s pre-aviation history as an apple orchard, originally known as Orchard Field, which gave the airport its “ORD” IATA code. The City of Chicago press release details how the interior architecture features tree-like structural columns that branch out to support the roof, creating a canopy effect intended to reduce travel stress.

A key feature of the design is the “Oculus,” a central skylight that serves as the building’s architectural focal point. The design team emphasizes that this feature is not merely aesthetic but functional, directing natural daylight deep into the building to aid in intuitive wayfinding.

“We designed the new satellite concourse to create a frictionless experience for travelers… The gate lounges feature column-free expanses for easy wayfinding, high ceilings to optimize views, and a daylighting strategy to help align the body’s natural rhythms.”

, Scott Duncan, Design Partner at SOM

The facility will include over 20,000 square feet of airline lounge space and 30,000 square feet dedicated to retail and concessions. In a move to accommodate modern traveler needs, the design also incorporates a dedicated children’s play area and multi-level communal seating equipped with integrated charging stations.

Operational Capacity and ORDNext Strategy

Beyond the aesthetics, Concourse D is a critical component of the broader ORDNext (formerly O’Hare 21) capital program. The expansion is necessary to maintain O’Hare’s status as a global hub by increasing gate capacity and flexibility.

According to the CDA, the concourse will add 19 new flexible gates to the airport’s portfolio. These gates are designed with versatility in mind, capable of accommodating:

• 19 wide-body Commercial-Aircraft for international routes, or
• Nearly double that number in narrow-body aircraft for domestic flights, depending on the daily configuration.

This flexibility allows the airport to adjust to shifting market demands between domestic and international travel without requiring physical construction changes.

“By breaking ground on Concourse D, we are taking a critical first step toward enhancing how the airport welcomes and serves more than 80 million passengers each year.”

, Michael McMurray, CDA Commissioner

Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the economic impact of the project, noting that it serves as an economic engine for the region. The city estimates the project will create approximately 3,800 construction jobs.

AirPro News Analysis

The rebranding of “Satellite 1” to “Concourse D” and the release of this high-fidelity animation signal a clear intent by Chicago officials to solidify the project’s identity before the steel rises significantly. By leaning heavily into the “Orchard” narrative, the CDA is attempting to differentiate O’Hare from other sterile, glass-and-steel global hubs.

From an operational standpoint, the “flexible gate” configuration is the most significant detail. As airline fleets evolve and the mix between wide-body international haulers and narrow-body domestic hoppers fluctuates, static gates can become liabilities. The ability to park two narrow-bodies in the footprint of one wide-body maximizes the return on Investments for this $1.3 billion asset, ensuring it remains relevant regardless of how airline strategies shift in the 2030s.

Timeline and Next Steps

The project is currently active, with construction managed by the joint venture AECOM Hunt Clayco Bowa. The timeline provided by the city outlines the following key milestones:

• August 18, 2025: Official Groundbreaking.
• February 5, 2026: Unveiling of final interior design and “Concourse D” naming.
• Late 2028: Projected completion and grand opening.

Concourse D is located just south of the existing Concourse C (Terminal 1) and will be connected via a new walkway extension. It serves as the precursor to the eventual demolition of Terminal 2, which will make way for the future O’Hare Global Terminal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the new Concourse D located?
It is located directly south of the existing Concourse C at Terminal 1. It will be connected to the main terminal complex via a new walkway extension.

When will Concourse D open?
The City of Chicago and the Chicago Department of Aviation have scheduled the opening for late 2028.

Why is it called the “Orchard” design?
The design pays tribute to “Orchard Field,” the original name of the airfield that became O’Hare. The interior columns resemble trees, and the layout emphasizes nature and light.

How much will the project cost?
The budget for Concourse D is set at $1.3 billion.

Sources

• City of Chicago Press Release