Here's how this O’Hare project is expected to play out: The city will issue $4 billion in bonds to get the program rolling and borrow more over time. The debt will be repaid from O’Hare revenues, including landing fees, terminal rents, parking and other sources. Emanuel’s key to getting this done was signing a new lease and use agreement with United Airlines, American Airlines and other carriers to replace the 35-year deal with airlines that was set to expire in May. American held out for a short time, but in the end everyone signed on to an agreement that officials say is more favorable and flexible for Chicago.