O'Hare 21 Terminal Area Plan Program at O'Hare International Airport (ORD)

Overview

The O’Hare 21 Terminal Area Plan (ORDNext) is a multi‑year airport modernization program at O’Hare International Airport that includes new terminal development, redevelopment of existing facilities, and comprehensive modernization of baggage handling systems. The program integrates new and upgraded BHS infrastructure across multiple terminals to support expanded capacity, improved operations, and long‑term growth.

Project Details

The ORDNext Baggage Handling System (BHS) program is being developed in parallel with extensive facility modernization efforts, including construction of new terminals and redevelopment of existing facilities. The scope includes replacement of the legacy Terminal 5 BHS, featuring a new Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS), new Early Bag Storage (EBS), and a new outbound make‑up bagroom.

Beyond Terminal 5, the ORDNext BHS program includes modifications and upgrades to the existing baggage handling systems in Terminals 1, 2, and 3. The program also encompasses development of the new O’Hare Global Terminal (OGT), which includes a new CBIS, new EBS, a new outbound make‑up bagroom, and a terminating inbound baggage system. Two new satellite concourses are being constructed to support additional gates, including a new make‑up bagroom within Satellite 1. The satellite concourses are connected to the OGT through a consolidated tunnel containing both BHS connections and a tug roadway.

As a critical member of the Connect Chicago Alliance (CCA) Project Management Office (PMO) team, Studdiford Technical Solutions, LLC (STS) provides BHS subject matter expertise across all facets of the ORDNext program. For the Terminal 5 BHS replacement, STS supports design and construction documentation reviews, provides technical recommendations for BHS RFIs, coordinates TSA Requests for Variance (RFVs) and Configuration Change Requests (CCRs), and leads on‑site commissioning and testing activities. Commissioning services include static mechanical and electrical testing, dynamic and functional testing, and TSA compliance commissioning.

For the broader ORDNext program, STS leads early design coordination efforts, providing procurement methodology recommendations to the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA), coordinating directly with airlines on potential supplemental BHS projects beyond the current ORDNext scope, and working with designers on design development and budget updates. STS will continue providing the same level of BHS expertise throughout the program as delivered for the Terminal 5 BHS replacement.

The overall scope of services includes oversight of all BHS and CBIS design for TSA compliance, monitoring designer and contractor performance, providing technology recommendations, advising on procurement strategies for both capital expenditures and operations and maintenance, ORAT support, and oversight of bid package development.