Flying with Icelandair from Chicago? The first thing to know is that Icelandair uses Terminal 5 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). Since O’Hare has several passenger terminals, knowing where to go before you arrive can save time, especially when you have checked baggage or an international flight. This guide covers the Icelandair ORD Terminal, departures, arrivals, check-in, baggage, flights from Chicago, lounge access, and other useful information passengers may need before their trip.
Icelandair at Chicago O’Hare: At a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Airline | Icelandair |
| Airport | Chicago O’Hare International Airport |
| Airport Code | ORD |
| Terminal | Terminal 5 |
| Flight Type | International |
| Main Route | Chicago (ORD) – Iceland |
| Lounge | LOT Business Lounge |
| Check-in Opens | 3.5 hours before departure |
| Check-in Closes | 1 hour before departure for passengers with bags |
Icelandair’s airport information lists Terminal 5 for its Chicago O’Hare operations.
What Terminal Is Icelandair at ORD?
Terminal 5 is O’Hare’s dedicated international terminal and handles many international departures and arrivals.
Flying Icelandair From ORD
For passengers departing Chicago, the journey generally starts at Terminal 5. Once inside the terminal, follow the Icelandair signs and airport information screens for the current check-in area and gate.
Icelandair states that check-in at Chicago O’Hare opens 3.5 hours before departure. Passengers checking bags must complete check-in by one hour before departure.
For an international flight, arriving at the airport early is useful because you may need time for:
- Airline check-in
- Bag drop
- Security screening
- Document checks
- Finding your departure gate
- Boarding
Your actual gate can change, so check the airport monitors after completing security.
Icelandair Departures From ORD
An Icelandair departure from ORD is handled through Terminal 5.
Before leaving for the airport, check your reservation for the latest departure time and flight number. It is also a good idea to check the flight status on the day of travel as weather, airport operations or airline schedules can impact departure times.
When traveling internationally, keep your passport and any other travel documents you need readily available.
How early should you arrive?
Icelandair opens check-in 3.5 hours before departure at Chicago O’Hare.
There is no single arrival time that works for every traveler. A passenger with checked baggage during a busy travel period may need more time than someone traveling with carry-on luggage.
Icelandair Arrivals at ORD
If you are arriving in Chicago on an Icelandair flight, you will use the international-arrival facilities at Terminal 5.
After leaving the aircraft, international passengers may need to complete immigration and customs procedures before leaving the airport or continuing to another flight.
If you are picking someone up from an Icelandair flight, check the flight status before traveling to O’Hare. Arrival times and gate information can change.
Icelandair Flights From Chicago O’Hare
One of the main reasons travelers choose Icelandair from Chicago is the connection between Chicago O’Hare and Iceland.
A typical itinerary is:
Chicago O’Hare (ORD) → Keflavík International Airport (KEF)
Keflavík is Iceland’s main international airport and can also be used as a connection point for onward Icelandair travel.
Icelandair’s published schedule includes Chicago among its North American destinations, although the number of flights can change depending on the season and travel dates.
Therefore, if you are looking for Icelandair flights from ORD, check the airline’s schedule for your exact date instead of relying on a general weekly flight frequency.
Icelandair Baggage at ORD
Travelers departing from Chicago with checked luggage should allow enough time to complete baggage drop before the airline’s cutoff.
Icelandair lists the baggage check-in deadline at ORD as one hour before scheduled departure.
Your baggage allowance depends on your fare and itinerary. Before going to O’Hare, check your booking to see:
- How many checked bags are included
- Carry-on allowance
- Weight restrictions
- Size restrictions
- Additional baggage charges
If your luggage is delayed or damaged after arrival, contact Icelandair’s baggage service at the airport and keep your baggage receipt and claim information.
Icelandair Lounge at ORD
Need a place to relax before your flight?
Icelandair lists the LOT Business Lounge in Terminal 5 as its lounge facility at Chicago O’Hare. The lounge is located between Gates M17 and M18.
Icelandair lists the lounge hours as 7:00 a.m. to midnight and states that eligible passengers receive a lounge invitation at check-in.
Lounge access depends on your ticket and eligibility, so check your reservation before planning to use the lounge.
Getting Around Chicago O’Hare
O’Hare is a large airport, and Terminal 5 is separated from Terminals 1, 2, and 3.
If you are arriving at O’Hare on another airline and connecting to Icelandair, allow additional time to reach Terminal 5.
Passengers should follow airport signs for the appropriate terminal and use the airport’s transportation options when transferring between terminals.
If you are being dropped off by car or rideshare, tell the driver that you need Terminal 5 rather than simply saying “international terminal.”
Icelandair ORD Terminal Tips for Passengers
A few simple preparations can make the airport experience easier:
- Check your terminal before leaving.
Icelandair uses Terminal 5, but always confirm your flight details on the day of travel. - Show up early. International flights require check in , baggage , security and boarding .
- Keep your travel documents close by. Do not put your passport or other important travel documents in checked luggage.
- Check the baggage rules before packing.
Your allowance depends on your ticket and itinerary. - Watch the airport screens.
Your departure gate can change after you arrive. - Check your flight status.
This is especially useful during bad weather or busy travel periods.
List of all Icelandair Terminals.
Final Thoughts
The most important thing to remember when flying Icelandair from Chicago is simple: go to Terminal 5 at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
From check-in and baggage drop to international departures and arrivals, Terminal 5 handles the key parts of the Icelandair journey at ORD. Checking your flight status, baggage allowance and latest airport information before leaving home can help you avoid unnecessary delays.
When flying ORD to Iceland, connecting through Reykjavík, or meeting an arriving passenger, knowing the correct terminal beforehand makes navigating O’Hare much easier.