United CEO Vows Capacity Surge to Block American Airlines at Chicago O'Hare

The long-running battle for dominance at Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) has intensified.

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has drawn a "line in the sand" against rival American Airlines (AA). Kirby told investors his airline will aggressively defend its hub carrier dominance. He vowed to stop AA from winning any gates at United’s expense in the 2027 reallocation.

The O'Hare Gate War

The conflict centers on gate access, a critical resource at the busy airport. The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) manages the ORD gate reallocation system. Gates are reallocated annually based on an airline's average daily departures. This "use-it-or-lose-it" policy rewards carriers that maximize flight activity.

United Airlines currently holds a significant advantage. The airline has about 95 gates at O'Hare. American Airlines operates with approximately 60 gates. In the October 2025 reallocation, United gained five gates. American Airlines lost five gates in that process.

American's Capacity Push

American Airlines is actively pursuing a Chicago expansion strategy. The carrier intends to solidify ORD as its third-largest hub. AA increased its summer 2025 flying by 20% year-over-year. This aggressive growth is expected to pay off in the short term. Kirby acknowledged that AA will likely gain three gates back in the 2026 reallocation.

However, Kirby's new vow targets the 2027 allocation cycle. He stated United will add all necessary flights in 2026. This move is designed to ensure United keeps its gate count the same.

Financial Stakes and Consumer Impact

The United American Chicago O'Hare battle carries massive financial risk. Kirby claimed United made a $500 million profit at ORD in 2025. He estimates American Airlines lost $500 million in Chicago last year. Kirby projected AA's losses could reach $1 billion in 2026.

American Airlines quickly rebutted these claims. An AA spokesperson called the competitor's loss estimates "unsubstantiated." American stressed its commitment to Chicago. They highlighted their investment in airport infrastructure.

• Risk: A potential fare war could erode profits for both carriers.
• Opportunity: The increased airline capacity battle is good for consumers. It typically leads to lower fares and more flight options.

This high-stakes hub carrier dominance fight is not new. The competition dates back to the 1980s. United is leaning on its Chicago headquarters advantage. The carrier is focused on winning local corporate customers. The coming year will test the resolve of both carriers. United's strategy is to make American's expansion unprofitable. American's goal is to force its way into more gate space.

Stay ahead of the airline industry with commercial aviation news from flying.flights.