American Airlines will get five new gates at Chicago O’Hare Airport, in the first real expansion at O’Hare since Terminal 5 was constructed more than 20 years ago.
The new gates are expected to become operational by 2018, the office of Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel said.
"O’Hare airport is moving into the 21st century with the addition of these gates," Chicago Department of Aviation commissioner Ginger Evans said in a statement.
"Passengers will see fewer delays, shorter taxi times and an overall improved experience when flying to or from Chicago, which is our top priority at both O’Hare and Midway airports."
It follows last week’s announcement by the mayor of a $1.3 billion infrastructure project for the airport which includes the construction of a new runway.
"These new gates, in addition to the airfield improvements announced already, signify a major investment American is making in our customers and employees at O’Hare," said Michael Minerva, vice president of government and airport affairs for American Airlines.
Officials also said other major airlines operating out of O’Hare will be offered the option of additional gates.
