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I recently flew from Louisville Kentucky (my home) to New York City. As an advocate for special needs individuals I looked carefully at the 2 very different airports I was traveling through.
My first airport was OHare airport. Located in Chicago Illinois ORD is a massive airport. It is wide, clean, and bright. I have no doubt that OHare is one of the busiest airports in the nation. Although the size was huge, ORD seemed very well equipped to help people with a number of limitations. I saw a plenty of wheelchairs, special transfer chairs, and plenty of larger spaces to move around. I also noticed a few service animals, and plentu of people using canes, etc. The bathrooms were very nice, clean and offered plenty of facilities. There were a number of food and gift shop options as well. New charging stations, and variety of seating options were also positive. I think the size of ORD may be a bit overwhelming, but the attitude, and general environment was very good.
As to the flight service, I did have a flight delay in Chicago, but many flights were cancelled due to a snow storm. I was happy to be able to leave Chicago, and would say if you have to have a delay, ORD is an okay airport.
So I finally landed in La Guardia. I was surprised by how small and limited the airport felt. When using the restrooms there were only 3 stalls, and 1 was handicapped accessible. La Guardia airport felt like it had been left in the 1970s. I asked about updates, and was told it is in the works. I saw the same wheelchair and transfer chairs, but fewer people using them. Another shocking fact is that La Guardia is very limited in food and trinkets. I had 2 food options in the terminal, and had to go out of the entire area, through security to get to the food court, and the main store area. The lay out in LGR, along with low ceiling and tile floor felt old and used. I spoke about LGR being more of an all business airport, even though it is closest to NYC.
I know most people won't "choose" an airport, but sometimes it is not a bad idea to know what to expect, and be prepared.
Vicky Spencer Rouse
February 21, 2023
