CHICAGO — A new TikTok trend called the “Airport Theory” is gaining popularity among travelers — and it’s catching on here in Chicago. The concept encourages people to show up to the airport just 15 minutes before departure, chasing the thrill of racing to the gate rather than waiting around.
But while some fliers are eager to embrace the adrenaline, Chicago-based experts say the risk of missing your flight far outweighs the hype.
What Is TikTok’s Airport Theory?
The viral trend began with creators posting dramatic countdown videos of themselves sprinting through terminals, often with captions like “I made it…barely.” The goal: arrive as late as possible and still board the plane.
This has sparked a wave of social media experiments across the country — including attempts at both O’Hare and Midway International Airports.
The theory promises a high-stakes adventure, but most major airlines close boarding 15–20 minutes before departure. That means the trend is already cutting it dangerously close.
What Chicago Travel Experts Are Saying
Chicago-based travel expert Jeanenne Tornatore recently weighed in on the trend during a segment of ChicagoNOW.
“It’s thrilling to watch, but extremely impractical in real life,” Tornatore said. “Especially in cities like Chicago, where airport traffic, TSA lines, and gate distances make last-minute arrivals nearly impossible.”
According to Tornatore, fliers attempting this stunt at Chicago O’Hare or Midway are playing with fire — especially during summer, holidays, or bad weather.
What’s Driving the Trend?
Many of the TikTok creators embracing Airport Theory say it’s about reclaiming spontaneity and injecting excitement into air travel. But critics argue that the stress it brings — missed flights, change fees, and lost luggage — quickly outweighs any benefits.
“It’s like being in a video game,” said one Chicago TikToker, who posted herself arriving at Midway just 13 minutes before takeoff. “But one where the prize is… not getting stranded.”
Why It’s a Bigger Gamble in Chicago
Airports like O’Hare and Midway make this trend especially risky:
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At O’Hare International (ORD):
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TSA wait times can exceed 45 minutes during peak travel
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Walking distances from security to gates can take 15–20 minutes
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Most domestic airlines close boarding 15 minutes before departure
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At Midway International (MDW):
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Shorter terminal footprint but still long TSA delays
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Low-cost carriers may shift gates frequently
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That means if you arrive 15 minutes before takeoff, you may already be too late.
Even airlines that allow late check-ins have strict boarding deadlines. Gate doors close well before the aircraft pushes back.
What You Should Do Instead
Tornatore and other experts recommend sticking with standard guidance:
- For domestic flights: Arrive at least 90 minutes early
- For international travel: Arrive 2–3 hours in advance
- Always check boarding time — not just departure time
Some flexibility is fine, Tornatore noted, but the 15-minute theory is “more TikTok gimmick than travel hack.”
Key Takeaways
- TikTok’s Airport Theory encourages arriving at the airport only 15 minutes before departure
- The trend has gone viral but is impractical at major airports like O’Hare and Midway
- Chicago travel experts call the strategy “unrealistic and stressful”
- Boarding doors often close 15–20 minutes before departure, making the trend unreliable
- Experts advise travelers to follow traditional timing to avoid missed flights
Have you or someone you know tried the Airport Theory in Chicago? Did it go smoothly — or disastrously? Tell us your experience and whether you’d ever risk showing up with only minutes to spare.
Stay connected with ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com for more trending Chicago travel news, airline tips, and what locals need to know before flying.
