Private O'Hare Flyer service planned for Chicago airport-downtown

A group of Chicago-area business and civic leaders yesterday announced plans to connect Chicago O'Hare International Airport with downtown Chicago via a private, battery-electric passenger-rail service, the O'Hare Flyer.

The O'Hare Flyer will provide concierge-level service; the 15-minute ride between the airport and downtown will operate on a dedicated track with departures every 15 minutes. The train will run on continuous rail and recharge at its downtown station near the Old Post Office and at its Terminal 2 O'Hare station, O'Hare Flyer project officials said in a press release.

The route combines three existing and underused freight rights of way owned by CSX, CN and Union Pacific Railroad. The O'Hare Flyer has reached an agreement on terms with CSX and is moving forward with the other two Class Is. A private project, the O'Hare Flyer is not seeking government funding or subsidies, officials said.

With a goal to launch the O'Hare Flyer within the next five years, the project team is now conducting public outreach and meeting with public officials and community groups. Over the past three years, the project team has established partnerships with top engineering, law, architecture, urban planning, design, marketing and public relations firms, most of which are based in Chicago.

"O’Hare is one of Chicago’s greatest assets and a major competitive advantage in our ability to attract businesses, workers, investment and visitors from around the world," said Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Jack Lavin. "O’Hare Flyer will be a game changer, creating a faster, more reliable connection between the airport and downtown, making it easier to do business in Chicago and strengthening our position as a premier destination for corporate headquarters, conventions and tourism."