The new innovation is part of the airport’s new 350,000 square foot expansion
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) has announced that new smart windows – created by intelligent glass firm, View Inc – will be installed as part of its 350,000 square foot expansion of Terminal 5.
The new extension is incorporated in the airport’s $8.5bn (£6.1bn) project to modernise the site, with the end goal of improving customer comfort and experience. Delta Air Lines will also use Terminal 5 as its new base.
The technology uses artificial intelligence to provide the optimal amount of natural light into the building, whilst preventing heat and glare. The new windows are also set to reduce energy consumption by reducing the need for cooling requirements.
Jamie Rhee, the commissioner of the Chicago Department of Aviation, said: “As more people return to the skies, transforming airports from curb to gate to be comfortable, healthy, and efficient will be key to instilling confidence in travellers. Incorporating View’s state-of-the-art, smart windows in Terminal 5 will help us provide an exceptional passenger experience while also making the airport more efficient and reducing our energy usage.”
Architecture firms Muller2 and HOK designed the new terminal, which mimics the form of an aeroplane wing. The facility will include floor to ceiling windows that offer views of the runway for passengers and increase natural light.
Expansion of the terminal will increase its capacity by 25%, by adding ten new gates, extra concessions and a premium lounge facility which will also be fitted with the smart windows.
The company’s new innovation has been implemented across many different airports in the US, including Boston Logan, Dallas Fort-Worth, San Francisco, New York LaGuardia, Memphis, Charlotte Douglas, Phoenix Sky-Harbour and Seattle-Tacoma.
