CHICAGO – On the same day the Transportation Secretary-designee Pete Buttigieg extolled the romantic virtues of O’Hare International Airport, the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) proudly announced that O’Hare was named the "Best Airport in North America" for the 17th consecutive year by Global Traveler (GT) magazine. GT, a travel and lifestyle magazine for international business travelers, revealed the good news this week during a virtual awards ceremony in New York City.

O’Hare additionally picked up an award for Best Airport Dining. It is the 17th straight year that O'Hare has been named North America’s best airport by GT readers, and the

21st consecutive year O’Hare has received that honor from leading travel magazine.

Meanwhile, Chicago Midway International Airport won Best Family Friendly Domestic

Airport in the WhereverFamily’s Wherever Awards.

During his introductory remarks as President-elect Joe Biden’s choice to lead the U.S. Department of Transportation, the former South Bend, IN Mayor chronicled his love of transportation in all its forms, ending on a personal note by describing the marriage proposal he made to his now-husband at Gate B5. “Don’t let anybody tell you that O’Hare isn’t romantic,” Buttigieg concluded.

O’Hare, the best-connected airport in North America and among the top three worldwide, acknowledged Buttigieg’s sentiments and returned the favor on Twitter.

"On behalf of Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, we are honored that O'Hare International Airport was once again recognized by Global Traveler's readers as the best airport in North America," said CDA Commissioner Jamie L. Rhee. "At both O’Hare and Midway, we are actively working to improve the traveler experience by offering world-class dining,

shopping, and passenger amenities. We are continuing to make critical investments in the future of both airports. And make no mistake, our airports are great places to make connections and set off on new adventures. On that note, congratulations to Pete Buttigieg. We are looking forward to working with the new administration on the urgent travel and transportation needs of the 21st century.

At the GT ceremony, O’Hare picked up three additional awards, including: Trazees for Favorite Airport in North America, Favorite Airport Dining and Favorite Airport Shopping. The Trazees celebrate the best in the travel industry determined by travelers ages 18–35.

"Chicago O’Hare International Airport is in a world-class city with stellar concessions that have much to offer for all tastes. The connectivity between terminals make it easy to navigate," said Francis X. Gallagher, publisher and CEO, Global Traveler. "Midway Airport is the fastest connection to Chicago and has had much improvement over the years. I often combine in and out between O’Hare and Midway and the action is seamless."

For an updated status on available concessions and amenities at both airports, visit flychicago.com.