Adopt "ORDway" for O’Hare Airport's Acronym

The Issue

O'Hare International Airport, known by its three-letter code - ORD, has been serving as a significant aviation hub for decades. It earned its abbreviation from Orchard Place/Douglas Field, yet the correlation between the name "Orchard" and O’Hare's global role as an aviation junction is not reflective of its stature.

This petition aims to officially change O'Hare's acronym, ORD – from "Orchard" to "ORDway." This suggestion not only retains the airport's original abbreviation but adds more relevant and meaningful semantics to ORD. The term "Ordway" is proposed, symbolizing how O'Hare guides millions of passengers "ORD-ways" around the world annually.

As per the US Department of Transportation, O'Hare accommodated nearly 84 million passengers in 2019, the second most of any U.S. airport and sixth in the world. This clearly showcases its predominant role in global and American aviation.

Let's reshape the interpretation of ORD, from 'Orchard' to 'ORDway,' aligning perfectly with O'Hare's current purpose, honoring the hard work and commitment by the thousands who ensure its smooth operation day after day.

Recognize O'Hare's significant role in maintaining global travel networks. Support the re-definition of ORD. Sign the petition and lend your voice to help bring about this change.

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The Issue

O'Hare International Airport, known by its three-letter code - ORD, has been serving as a significant aviation hub for decades. It earned its abbreviation from Orchard Place/Douglas Field, yet the correlation between the name "Orchard" and O’Hare's global role as an aviation junction is not reflective of its stature.

This petition aims to officially change O'Hare's acronym, ORD – from "Orchard" to "ORDway." This suggestion not only retains the airport's original abbreviation but adds more relevant and meaningful semantics to ORD. The term "Ordway" is proposed, symbolizing how O'Hare guides millions of passengers "ORD-ways" around the world annually.

As per the US Department of Transportation, O'Hare accommodated nearly 84 million passengers in 2019, the second most of any U.S. airport and sixth in the world. This clearly showcases its predominant role in global and American aviation.

Let's reshape the interpretation of ORD, from 'Orchard' to 'ORDway,' aligning perfectly with O'Hare's current purpose, honoring the hard work and commitment by the thousands who ensure its smooth operation day after day.

Recognize O'Hare's significant role in maintaining global travel networks. Support the re-definition of ORD. Sign the petition and lend your voice to help bring about this change.

Support now

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The Decision Makers

Department for Transportation, USA
Department for Transportation, USA
Chicago Department of Aviation
Chicago Department of Aviation

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Petition created on April 19, 2025