Traffic moving again after protest blocks access to O'Hare
Traffic on the highway was considerably backed up, according to a post from the airport on the social media platform X. The flow of traffic resumed around 9:20 a.m.
Anthony Vazquez/Sun-Times file
A group of demonstrators protesting American response to the carnage in Gaza blocked traffic on westbound Interstate 90, cutting off traffic to O'Hare Airport on Monday morning.
Traffic on the highway was considerably backed up, according to a post from the airport on the social media platform X. The flow of traffic resumed around 9:20 a.m.
O’hare international airport shut down due to the protest ???? a lot of people are walking to the airport pic.twitter.com/uN9t8WXtFd
— alan ☆ (@alanxgalindo) April 15, 2024
Illinois State Police responded to the event with the Chicago Police Department.
A social media photo and video shows empty lanes near the terminals usually clogged with heavy traffic and travelers walking to the airport.
It wasn't immediately clear who organized the protest, but reports say demonstrators are opposing U.S. support of Israel as strikes continue in Gaza.
Vehicular travel into O'Hare may be substantially delayed this morning due to protest activity on I-190. Departing passengers are encouraged to consider alternative modes of transportation to the airport, including the @cta Blue Line. Additional updates will be provided. pic.twitter.com/A8wqNH3zQ6
— O'Hare Intl. Airport (@fly2ohare) April 15, 2024