Published on: October 22, 2025, 07:48h.
Updated on: October 22, 2025, 07:48h.
- O’Hare and Midway Airports may soon feature slot machines
- Chicago officials are considering airport slots to address a $1.15 billion budget shortfall
- Currently, airport slots in the US are exclusive to airports in Las Vegas and Reno
At present, airport slot machines in the United States are restricted to Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas and Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Now, a major U.S. city—the third largest in the country—is looking to join this unique gaming experience.
In an effort to mitigate a $1.15 billion budget deficit, Chicago’s Mayor Brandon Johnson recently proposed a 10.25% tax on gross revenues from online sportsbooks operating within the city. However, state lawmakers swiftly introduced a bill aimed at preventing local governments from imposing taxes, regulations, or licenses on sports betting in Illinois.
With the prospect of a sports betting tax dwindling and Johnson opposing the expansion of video lottery terminals in the city, Jill Jaworski, the city’s chief financial officer, surprised many when she mentioned the mayor’s office is contemplating the introduction of slot machines at O’Hare and Midway airports.
Slot Machines at Chicago Airports
The Rebuild Illinois Act of 2019, enacted by Gov. JB Pritzker (D), permitted the establishment of six new land-based casinos, five of which are in the Chicago suburbs, with the sixth located downtown. Bally’s has been selected as the city’s gaming partner and is in the process of constructing a $2 billion resort in River West.
The 2019 legislation also allows for the installation of slot machines at both Chicago airports, provided these gaming terminals are situated “beyond the Transportation Security Administration security checkpoints.” Although former Mayor Lori Lightfoot chose not to pursue this opportunity, Johnson appears willing to explore it.
“We have engaged in discussions with Bally’s to advance this initiative. They have shown interest,” Jaworski informed the City Council.
The news was met with enthusiasm among many council members. Ald. Gilbert Villegas (36th) indicated that financial forecasts suggest the city could yield approximately $40 million annually from airport slots.
“This is a no-brainer. The General Assembly granted us this authority. It’s unfortunate that both the previous and current administrations have yet to act on it … rather than nitpicking,” Villegas stated.
When asked if slot machines greeting travelers in Chicago might negatively affect the city’s reputation, Villegas responded, “Not at all.”
“This would provide passengers with a way to pass the time while waiting for flights, dealing with delays, or being rerouted,” Villegas explained. “This offers adults entertainment while allowing the city to capture extra revenue from the visitors and gives Bally’s an opportunity to promote itself.”
Future of Airport Slot Machines
If the city decides to proceed, Chicago airport slot machines may be at least a year away from implementation. The reception of O’Hare and Midway slots remains to be seen, especially considering the mixed reviews of those at LAS.
Often referred to as the most restrictive slots in Southern Nevada, Las Vegas airport machines tend to target bored and weary travelers eager to gamble.
Michael Gaughan, owner of the South Point Hotel Casino, has held the exclusive rights to airport slots at Harry Reid International for over 40 years. His enterprise, Michael Gaughan Slots, operates more than 1,000 machines across LAS terminals.
The majority of revenue generated from these airport slots, around 86.5%, is allocated to Clark County to support the operations of the county-owned facility. In 2022, Gaughan revealed that revenue from the airport slots had exceeded the $1 billion milestone over the 36 years his slots have been active.