Swissport Lounge at Chicago O’Hare (ORD) Closes Permanently
I don't often cover lounge closings, but this one lounge has become somewhat infamous in the travel world and has been referred to by many as the worst lounge in the world and the "Saddest Airport Lounge" by the Wall Street Journal. But, interestingly, while writing this post and doing some research, some travelers, had more positive experiences, even to my surprise, seeing some 5-star reviews.
Regardless of how you feel about the Swissport Lounge (ORD) in Terminal 5, it is now closed effective October 31, 2026. No official press release was shared on the closing, but both Priority Pass and the Chicago O'Hare lounge page show the lounge as closed.
My Memories of the Swissport Lounge at ORD
I visited this lounge many years ago, before I was a lounge professional, but the memory has stuck with me since. I did not have much to compare it to at the time, but I did remember it feeling kind of like I was in an underground bunker with not much life. Furthermore, I remember there were no windows, and the lounge was almost completely empty. I did not capture any photos, but the memory still sticks with me.
What will take over this space?
It is unknown what will happen to the space now that is closed. But Terminal 5, where it is located has been going through some big changes and is in the middle of a landside transformation now. I will make sure to keep my eye open for any news of what happens in this space. In an April 2025 Wall Street Journal article, Swissport's North American lounge leadership discussed plans for a multimillion-dollar renovation and expansion of the O'Hare lounge, in partnership with an unnamed international airline.
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Closing Thoughts
I think at one time this lounge was decent, but over the past 12 years it has really worn down. The negative reports talk about the lack of decent food, rude staff, worn furniture, no windows, and long waits. But the positive is that during off-peak times this lounge was empty and offered self-serve alcohol.