Post by : Saif Rahman

In a fierce struggle at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, United Airlines and American Airlines are vying for control over one of the busiest gateways in the U.S. This battle transcends mere price competition; it revolves around crucial airport gates and flight schedules, essential for market dominance.

United Airlines has made its intent crystal clear. CEO Scott Kirby stated that the airline will not concede any gates to American Airlines, especially with 2026 on the horizon. He emphasized that United is prepared to increase its flight frequencies to safeguard its gate portfolio, marking a pivotal moment for the airline.

Gates at O’Hare carry immense significance. They determine the number of flights an airline can operate and the efficiency of those operations during peak hours, when business travelers—who typically pay higher fares—fly. Analysts reveal that airlines with better schedules and more gates tend to attract more corporate clients.

Unique in the U.S., Chicago O’Hare hosts two major legacy airlines running full-scale hubs. While United executes roughly half of the scheduled flights, American manages about one-third. United has notably fortified its position in recent years.

In 2025, United reported a profit of about $500 million from its Chicago operations, asserting that American incurred a similar loss at the airport. United claims to have regained a robust customer base in Chicago, a significant turnaround from nearly a decade ago. American disputes these assertions, arguing that O’Hare is capable of supporting two viable hub airlines.

The conflict intensified in late 2025 when Chicago's City Council reassigned airport gates—United gained five, while American had four reassigned. Although American sought to contest this decision legally, it ultimately didn't succeed. The airline characterized this setback as temporary and plans to recuperate by purchasing two gates from Spirit Airlines for $30 million, with expectations to acquire three additional gates later this year pending review.

Amid the rivalry, both airlines are expanding their service at O’Hare. United aims for nearly 650 daily departures this summer across approximately 200 destinations. Meanwhile, American has introduced its largest spring schedule to date, adding around 100 flights on peak days, raising its total to over 500 daily departures. This growth provides more travel options for passengers but also increases competitive pressures for both carriers.

This ongoing rivalry at Chicago O’Hare serves as a striking illustration of the fierce competition that ensues when two major airlines vie for control. For United, the airport represents its home turf and a significant revenue source. As for American, its revitalization and expansion at O’Hare are essential for future operations. The contest for gates and flight schedules is poised to intensify as both airlines gear up for 2026, ensuring that O’Hare remains a focal point within the U.S. aviation scene.

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