DuPage Airport set to accommodate traffic at NATO Conference

The DuPage Airport is prepared to assist the increased and diverted air traffic that will accompany the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's conference in Chicago May 19-21.

"With our 24-hour FAA air control tower and on-site U.S. customs service, as well as our state-of-the-art security, DuPage Airport is ideally suited to relocate traffic that is impacted by the NATO conference," said DuPage Executive Director David Bird. "We have a one stop shop concierge service and 24 hour emergency response capability with personnel from the West Chicago Fire Protection District trained in aircraft responses."

The airport, which is home to many major corporate flight departments and government operations, has four active runways, a 1 million square foot apron and 2 ILS approaches. The longest runway spans 7,570 feet and is the second longest runway in the Chicago area after O'Hare Airport. Aside from O'Hare and Midway, DuPage is the only facility in the region with a 24-hour control tower, and is also equipped with a 24/7 Airfield Rescue and Fire Fighting Vehicle.

DuPage has more than 96,000 square feet of premium hangar space with availability for air traffic affected by the Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFR) that will cover much of the Chicago skyline during the conference. Air traffic around Midway Airport, for instance, will be significantly affected by the restrictions and traffic is expected to increase at O'Hare.

The DuPage Flight Center offers a full array of professional services and amenities, including an on-site restaurant and catering and concierge support for over 60 nearby dining, hotel, theater and shopping options.

Bird says that the airport has made the various flight departments in the Chicago area aware of DuPage Airport's readiness to accommodate their needs.