A major modernization effort is taking off at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, as Turner Paschen Aviation Partners—a joint venture of Turner Construction Company, FH Paschen, d’Escoto Inc., GMA, SPAAN Tech, and Brown & Momen—has been selected to lead the design and construction of an expansive new baggage handling system. The initiative will rank among the most ambitious and technically complex baggage infrastructure projects ever undertaken in the United States.
The program spans multiple interconnected subsystems, servicing Satellite Concourse 1, the future O’Hare Global Terminal, and integrating upgrades into the existing systems at Terminals 1 and 3. Designed to significantly boost capacity and streamline airport operations, the system aims to improve the travel experience while accommodating future expansion.
“This is a landmark baggage handling modernization project for O’Hare and a proud moment for our joint venture,” said Kate Van Zeyl, Vice President and General Manager at Turner Construction Company. “It reflects the technical scale and strategic impact that define our collaborative work. We’re eager to partner with the City of Chicago’s Department of Aviation to set a new benchmark for baggage handling systems nationwide.”
Once operational, the advanced system will process millions of bags each year more efficiently than ever before.
Satellite Concourse 1, will be a three-story structure reaching 67 feet high. With an emphasis on openness and natural light, the concourse will support both domestic and international travelers. Designed to accommodate up to 19 aircraft, the new facility will be constructed just off Terminal 1—United Airlines’ central hub—and is slated for completion in 2028. The final design is expected to wrap up by the end of 2025, keeping the timeline on track.
O’Hare Airport Baggage Handling System Modernization: Project Factsheet
Project Lead: Turner Paschen Aviation Partners (Joint Venture)
Turner Construction Company
FH Paschen
d’Escoto Inc.
GMA
SPAAN Tech
Brown & Momen
Project Scope: Design and construction of a comprehensive new baggage handling system servicing:
Key Features:
Among the most technically complex baggage infrastructure projects in US history
Will process millions of bags annually with enhanced efficiency
Designed for increased capacity and future expansion
Project Impact:
Streamlined airport operations
Improved traveler experience
Setting new industry benchmarks for baggage handling systems nationwide
Read also: City of Chicago offers a glimpse of the new Satellite Concourse 1 at O’Hare Airport
