United Airlines has started the new year in style as far as its lounges are concerned by opening up a brand-new United Club at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). The facility is packed with features that not only make it a welcoming place to spend time but also one that is unique to Chicago. Let's take a closer look at it.

Officially open

The new United Club is located in Chicago O'Hare International's Terminal 1. This part of the airport handles both mainline United Airlines flights and those operated under its regional United Express brand. Also present are All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Lufthansa, albeit only for departing flights (their arrivals go to terminal 5).

Passengers wishing to visit the new United Club in Chicago will find it in Terminal 1's C concourse, with its nearest gate being C10. Measuring 17,000 square feet (1,579 square meters), it is hard to miss, given that, as United explained in a statement shared with Simple Flying, "the new club is double the size of the previous club."

This considerable surface area allows capacity for more than 400 guests, who can be accommodated in varying seat types such as chairs, recliners, and even couches. Different areas of the club can be used to dine, work, or simply relax.

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Modern and unique to Chicago

The new United Club at Chicago O'Hare International is also embracing the increasing digitalization of the airport experience. For example, rather than having to manually check into the lounge in person with a host, there is the option to self-scan, which allows passengers to enter the lounge via e-gates. United has also installed WiFi throughout, underlining its credentials as a workspace.

Rather than having to seek out customer service agents when questions arise, United has also streamlined this process for passengers with the implementation of 'Agent On Demand' kiosks. Using these, travelers can converse with agents instantly and remotely, with the option of doing so over video or text. The city of Chicago itself is a key part of the lounge's aesthetic, as United explains:

"With a design bridging an industrial and modern look, flyers can experience a sense of place among Chicago-sourced furniture and décor. The space also features hand-crafted artwork from local artists, including a statement mural by local artist, Kate Lewis, who is best recognized by bold color palettes and abstract line work."

Who can use United Club lounges?

Access to United Club lounges, such as this new facility in Chicago, can be gained in a number of different ways. United Airlines Polaris business, international business, and premium transcontinental business class passengers are granted entry, albeit without any guests. This is also the case for business class on other Star Alliance carriers, although first class ticket holders can bring a guest.

Star Alliance Gold members can also enter regardless of their class of travel as long as they are still flying on a Star Alliance carrier that day. Additionally, Maple Leaf Club members from United's Star Alliance partner Air Canada can access United Club lounges, either in the US or worldwide, depending on their membership. A similar deal is in place for members of Virgin Australia's Velocity program.

Moving away from frequent flyer schemes, active military personnel may also use United Club lounges (subject to seating availability). Access is also granted to their family members if they have gate passes or are traveling on the same flight. Finally, United also sells membership and one-time passes for its Club lounges.

• 

  United Airlines

  Region:

  North America

  Loyalty Program:

  MileagePlus

• 

  Chicago O'Hare International Airport

  IATA/ICAO Code:

  ORD/KORD

  CEO:

  Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) Commissioner Jamie Rhee

  Runways :

  4L/22R - 2,286m (7500 ft) | 4R/22L - 2,461m (8075 ft) | 9L/27R - 2,286m (7500 ft) | 9C/27C - 3,428m (11,245 ft) | 9R/27L - 2,428m (7,967 ft) | 10L/28R - 3,962m (13,000 ft) | 10C/28C - 3,292m (10,801 ft) | 10R/28L - 2,286m (7500 ft)

  Airlines:

  American Airlines, United Airlines

  Country:

  United States

  Passenger Count :

  54,020,339 (2021)

  Terminals:

  Terminal 1 | Terminal 2 | Terminal 3 | Terminal 5