Priority Pass lounge access at ORD

Question

We're connecting through ORD on a trip to London this week and will have a few hours layover. We depart out of Terminal 3 but the Priority Pass Lounge is in terminal 5. I know security restricts access to terminal 5 to ticketed passengers but if I'm leaving out of a different terminal can I still access the Lounge?

Answer

At Chicago O’Hare (ORD), terminal access is controlled by security checkpoints. Each terminal has its own security screening area, and once you pass through, you can only access gates and amenities within that terminal without exiting and re-entering security. Since your departing flight is from Terminal 3 and the Priority Pass lounge is located in Terminal 5, you cannot directly access the Terminal 5 lounge after passing through Terminal 3 security without leaving the secure area of Terminal 3, going through Terminal 5 security, and then re-entering Terminal 5.

Here are important considerations:

If you attempt to go from Terminal 3 to Terminal 5, you must exit the secure area of Terminal 3, which means reclaiming any checked bags if necessary, going through the TSA checkpoint at Terminal 5, and then accessing the lounge.
This process can be time-consuming, especially during peak travel times. TSA wait times at Terminal 5 may be long, so it’s essential to factor that into your layover.
ORD does not provide shuttle services that allow bypassing security between terminals. However, terminals are connected via the Airport Transit System (ATS), which is outside the secure area, so you would need to allow extra time to travel and clear security again.

Alternative options include lounges accessible from Terminal 3, which may be more convenient for a short layover. Priority Pass offers multiple lounges at ORD, including those in Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. You can check your Priority Pass app or website for lounges in Terminal 3 to avoid the need to switch terminals.

Admirals Club (American Airlines) – Terminal 3, post-security, access may require Priority Pass membership depending on the program rules.
United Club – Terminal 1, near some connecting gates if you are flying United, may have restrictions.
Other independent lounges in Terminal 3 – check the Priority Pass app for availability and location.

In summary, accessing the Terminal 5 Priority Pass lounge while departing from Terminal 3 is technically possible but not practical due to the need to exit and re-clear security. For a few-hour layover, using a lounge within Terminal 3 is a much safer and convenient option.

Priority Pass lounge access at ORD

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