The duration of air travel between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is a significant factor for travelers. Typically, a nonstop flight takes approximately two hours. However, connecting flights, layovers, and other variables like weather conditions can significantly influence the overall travel time. Understanding this range of potential durations allows for effective planning and management of connecting flights, ground transportation, and other logistical arrangements.
Efficient travel planning relies heavily on accurate estimations of journey length. Predicting the time spent in transit between these two major airport hubs has implications for business dealings, personal engagements, and connecting travel arrangements. Historical flight data and real-time tracking tools can offer valuable insights into typical durations and potential delays, aiding travelers in making informed decisions. This knowledge empowers individuals to optimize their schedules and minimize the disruption caused by unforeseen circumstances.
This understanding of travel duration between these two key airports forms the foundation for exploring related topics. Factors impacting flight times, strategies for minimizing travel duration, and the advantages of direct versus connecting flights are essential areas for further investigation. Additionally, examining the historical trends in flight durations can offer valuable insights into the evolution of air travel between these two important destinations.
1. Average Duration
Average duration constitutes a critical component of understanding CLT to ORD flight time. It represents the typical time required to traverse the aerial distance between Charlotte Douglas International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport. While direct flights generally clock in around two hours, this figure serves as a baseline rather than an absolute. Fluctuations occur due to factors such as air traffic congestion, weather conditions, and specific flight paths. For instance, a flight encountering headwinds might experience a slightly longer duration than one benefiting from tailwinds. Grasping the average duration empowers travelers to establish realistic expectations and manage potential schedule variations.
The practical significance of understanding average duration becomes particularly apparent when planning connecting flights or coordinating ground transportation. A traveler with a tight connection in Chicago benefits from knowing the average CLT to ORD flight time to assess the feasibility of making the subsequent flight. Similarly, pre-arranged ground transportation relies on a predictable arrival time. Deviation from the average duration, while often unavoidable, necessitates contingency plans. For example, booking a later connecting flight or informing ground transportation services of potential delays mitigates the impact of unforeseen circumstances.
In summary, average duration provides a crucial framework for managing travel logistics related to CLT to ORD flights. While acknowledging the inherent variability in actual flight times, understanding the average allows for informed decision-making and proactive management of potential disruptions. This awareness contributes to smoother, more predictable travel experiences. Further exploration of specific factors influencing flight durations can enhance this understanding and empower travelers with even greater control over their itineraries.
2. Direct Flights
Direct flights represent a crucial factor influencing overall travel time between Charlotte (CLT) and Chicago (ORD). Minimizing travel duration often hinges on the availability and selection of nonstop options. This section explores key aspects of direct flights and their impact on CLT to ORD itineraries.
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Scheduled Frequency
The number of direct flights offered daily directly impacts travel flexibility. A higher frequency of direct flights allows for more choices in departure times, accommodating diverse schedules. For example, a business traveler might require an early morning departure, while a leisure traveler might prefer a midday flight. A robust schedule of direct flights caters to a broader range of travel needs.
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Airlines and Aircraft
Different airlines operate direct flights between CLT and ORD, often utilizing varying aircraft types. This influences factors such as in-flight amenities, baggage allowances, and overall comfort. For instance, one airline might offer premium cabin options on larger aircraft, while another focuses on economy service with smaller planes. Understanding these differences allows travelers to select the airline and aircraft best suited to their preferences and budget.
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Impact on Overall Travel Time
Direct flights offer the most time-efficient travel option between CLT and ORD. Eliminating layovers and connecting flights significantly reduces overall journey duration. This efficiency translates to less time spent in transit and more time available for business or leisure activities at the destination. Choosing a direct flight can be the difference between arriving refreshed and ready for a meeting or arriving fatigued after a lengthy journey.
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Pricing and Availability
Pricing for direct flights can fluctuate based on demand, seasonality, and booking window. Availability also varies, particularly during peak travel periods. Monitoring prices and booking in advance often secures the best fares and ensures a seat on the desired direct flight. Travelers seeking greater flexibility might opt for connecting flights, often at a lower price point, but with the trade-off of increased travel time.
Considering these facets of direct flights provides travelers with a comprehensive understanding of their impact on CLT to ORD travel time. Evaluating scheduled frequency, airline options, impact on overall duration, and pricing dynamics allows for informed decisions that optimize travel efficiency and align with individual needs and preferences. By prioritizing these considerations, travelers can significantly enhance their journey between Charlotte and Chicago.
3. Connecting Flights
Connecting flights represent a significant factor influencing overall travel time between Charlotte (CLT) and Chicago (ORD). While often offering cost advantages, they introduce complexities regarding total duration, logistical considerations, and potential disruptions. Analyzing the relationship between connecting flights and CLT to ORD flight time requires examining several key aspects. Layover duration, the location of the connecting airport, and potential delays all contribute to the overall travel experience. For instance, a connecting flight with a short layover in a busy hub like Atlanta might create a risk of missing the connecting flight to Chicago if the initial flight from Charlotte experiences even a minor delay. Conversely, a longer layover, while increasing total travel time, provides a buffer against such delays.
The choice between a connecting flight and a direct flight often involves balancing cost considerations against time constraints. A connecting itinerary might involve a significantly lower fare, but the extended travel time due to layovers and potential delays must be factored into the decision-making process. Consider a scenario where a traveler opts for a connecting flight through Dallas to save on airfare. While the ticket price might be appealing, the additional travel time due to the layover, plus potential delays, could negate the cost benefit if time sensitivity is paramount. Understanding these trade-offs is crucial for informed decision-making.
In summary, the impact of connecting flights on CLT to ORD flight time presents a multifaceted consideration for travelers. Analyzing factors like layover duration, connection airport efficiency, and potential delays allows for a comprehensive assessment of the potential benefits and drawbacks. Balancing cost savings against the extended travel time associated with connecting flights allows travelers to make strategic choices aligned with individual priorities and constraints. Ultimately, understanding the nuanced relationship between connecting flights and overall travel time empowers informed decisions and contributes to more efficient and predictable journeys.
4. Layovers
Layovers represent a pivotal component within the broader context of CLT to ORD flight time. They introduce a planned interruption into the overall journey, influencing total travel duration and requiring careful consideration during itinerary planning. Understanding the implications of layovers is crucial for managing expectations and mitigating potential disruptions. The duration of a layover significantly impacts the overall CLT to ORD travel experience. A short layover, while potentially minimizing total travel time, increases vulnerability to delays. For example, a 30-minute layover might prove insufficient if the incoming flight from Charlotte experiences a minor delay, potentially causing a missed connection in a bustling hub like Atlanta. Conversely, an extended layover provides a buffer against such delays but adds to the overall journey duration. A four-hour layover, while offering ample time for a missed connection, might prove excessive for time-sensitive travelers.
The strategic selection of a layover location contributes significantly to the efficiency of a CLT to ORD itinerary. Connecting through a less congested airport can mitigate the risk of delays. Furthermore, some airports offer amenities conducive to longer layovers, such as restaurants, lounges, or even short-term hotel accommodations. Choosing a connecting airport known for smooth operations and passenger comfort can enhance the overall travel experience, even with a longer layover. For instance, opting for a connection through a smaller, less congested airport like Indianapolis might offer a smoother experience compared to a larger hub like Chicago, even if the layover duration is slightly longer.
In summary, layovers introduce both opportunities and challenges within the context of CLT to ORD flight time. Careful consideration of layover duration and location enables informed decision-making, balancing the desire for minimized travel time with the need for contingency against potential delays. Strategic layover planning contributes significantly to a smoother, more predictable travel experience. Integrating layover considerations into broader itinerary planning empowers travelers to manage expectations and navigate the complexities of air travel effectively.
5. Airlines
Airline selection plays a crucial role in determining the overall travel time between Charlotte (CLT) and Chicago (ORD). Different airlines offer varying schedules, routes, and aircraft types, all of which influence the duration and convenience of the journey. Understanding the impact of airline choices on CLT to ORD flight time empowers travelers to make informed decisions aligned with their specific needs and preferences. This section explores key facets of airline influence on this particular route.
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Direct vs. Connecting Flights
The availability of direct flights versus connecting flights varies among airlines serving the CLT to ORD route. Some airlines might prioritize direct routes, minimizing travel time, while others might offer primarily connecting flights, often at a lower price point but with increased overall duration. Choosing an airline offering a direct flight typically results in a faster journey, while opting for a connecting flight with a particular airline might involve a longer travel time due to layovers.
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Scheduled Frequency
Airlines differ in the frequency of flights they operate between CLT and ORD. An airline offering multiple daily departures provides greater flexibility in choosing a departure time that aligns with individual schedules. Conversely, an airline with limited flight frequency might restrict travel options, potentially necessitating adjustments to accommodate their schedule. This can indirectly influence the perceived travel time as travelers might need to factor in additional waiting time at the airport.
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Aircraft Type and Speed
The type of aircraft employed by an airline influences flight duration. While the distance between CLT and ORD remains constant, some aircraft types have higher cruising speeds than others. A flight operated with a faster aircraft will inherently have a shorter duration compared to a flight using a slower aircraft, even under identical weather conditions. This factor often goes unnoticed by travelers but can subtly impact overall travel time.
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On-Time Performance and Reliability
An airline’s historical on-time performance record is a critical consideration. Airlines with consistently high on-time arrival rates contribute to predictable and reliable travel experiences. Conversely, airlines with a history of delays might introduce uncertainty and extend the effective CLT to ORD flight time due to unforeseen disruptions. Choosing a reliable airline minimizes the risk of unexpected delays impacting travel plans.
In summary, the choice of airline significantly influences the overall CLT to ORD flight time experience. Factors such as direct flight availability, scheduled frequency, aircraft type, and on-time performance all contribute to the duration and reliability of the journey. Careful consideration of these factors empowers travelers to select the airline best suited to their individual needs and priorities, optimizing for speed, cost, and overall travel experience.
6. Time of Day
Departure and arrival times significantly influence the overall travel experience between Charlotte (CLT) and Chicago (ORD). “Time of day” considerations encompass potential advantages and disadvantages related to flight duration, air traffic congestion, and overall convenience. Understanding these temporal dynamics empowers travelers to make informed decisions aligned with individual priorities and constraints. This exploration delves into the multifaceted relationship between time of day and CLT to ORD flight time.
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Peak Travel Periods
Flights scheduled during peak travel times, typically early morning and late afternoon/early evening, often experience higher demand and subsequently increased likelihood of delays due to air traffic congestion. For instance, a morning departure from CLT might encounter delays due to the convergence of numerous flights departing around the same time. While these periods often align with convenient business schedules, the potential for delays must be considered. Conversely, flying during off-peak times, such as midday or late night, might offer shorter effective travel times due to reduced congestion, though potentially at the expense of schedule convenience.
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Impact on Connecting Flights
Time of day significantly influences the feasibility and convenience of connecting flights. A late afternoon arrival into ORD might limit options for onward connections, particularly to destinations with fewer evening departures. Conversely, a midday arrival offers greater flexibility for connections. Analyzing connecting flight schedules in conjunction with the chosen CLT to ORD departure time allows for strategic planning and minimizes potential connection-related delays or missed flights.
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Airport Efficiency and Ground Transportation
Time of day impacts airport efficiency and ground transportation availability. Arriving at ORD during peak hours might result in longer wait times for baggage claim and ground transportation services. Conversely, off-peak arrivals often expedite these processes. Factoring these potential delays into overall travel time calculations provides a more realistic estimate of total journey duration. For example, an early morning arrival at ORD might necessitate factoring in additional time for potentially congested ground transportation options into the city center.
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Red-Eye Flights
Red-eye flights, typically departing late at night and arriving early morning, offer a unique set of advantages and disadvantages. While potentially maximizing time at the destination by utilizing overnight travel hours, red-eye flights can disrupt sleep patterns and impact overall comfort. The perceived travel time might feel longer due to fatigue. Weighing these factors against the potential time savings allows travelers to assess the suitability of red-eye options for their individual needs and preferences.
In summary, time of day considerations play a crucial role in shaping the CLT to ORD flight time experience. Analyzing peak travel periods, impact on connections, airport efficiency, and red-eye flight implications empowers travelers to make informed decisions that optimize travel time, minimize potential disruptions, and align with individual preferences and constraints. Integrating these temporal dynamics into itinerary planning contributes significantly to a smoother, more predictable, and ultimately more efficient travel experience.
7. Seasonal Variations
Seasonal variations represent a significant factor influencing flight times between Charlotte (CLT) and Chicago (ORD). Weather patterns, holiday travel demand, and airline scheduling adjustments all contribute to fluctuations in travel duration throughout the year. Understanding these seasonal influences allows travelers to anticipate potential delays, plan itineraries effectively, and manage expectations realistically. This exploration delves into the multifaceted relationship between seasonal variations and CLT to ORD flight time.
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Weather Conditions
Weather patterns significantly impact flight times. Winter storms, particularly in the Chicago area, can cause delays and even cancellations. Strong winds, regardless of season, can alter flight paths and increase travel duration. For example, a flight encountering headwinds might experience a longer flight time compared to a flight benefiting from tailwinds. Similarly, summer thunderstorms, prevalent in both Charlotte and Chicago, can disrupt flight schedules. Monitoring weather forecasts and considering potential disruptions during inclement weather periods is crucial for managing travel expectations.
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Holiday Travel Demand
Holiday periods, such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, experience a surge in travel demand. This increased volume of passengers often leads to airport congestion, longer security lines, and potential flight delays. Booking flights well in advance during these peak seasons is advisable to secure preferred itineraries and mitigate the risk of schedule disruptions. For instance, travelers planning to fly between CLT and ORD during the Thanksgiving holiday period should anticipate longer than average travel times due to increased passenger volume and potential weather-related delays.
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Airline Schedule Adjustments
Airlines often adjust their flight schedules seasonally to accommodate fluctuating demand. During peak travel seasons, airlines might increase flight frequency to accommodate higher passenger volumes. Conversely, during less busy periods, airlines might reduce flight frequency, potentially limiting travel options and influencing overall travel time due to fewer direct flight choices. Consulting airline schedules well in advance of travel dates allows for proactive planning and informed decision-making.
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Air Traffic Control
Seasonal variations in weather conditions indirectly impact air traffic control operations. During periods of inclement weather, air traffic controllers might implement flow control measures to manage congestion and maintain safety. This can lead to delays and extended travel times, even for flights not directly impacted by the weather itself. For example, a flight from CLT to ORD might experience delays due to air traffic control restrictions implemented in response to thunderstorms in the Chicago area, even if the flight’s route does not directly intersect the storm system.
In summary, seasonal variations introduce an element of dynamism into CLT to ORD flight time. Weather conditions, holiday travel demand, airline schedule adjustments, and the indirect impact on air traffic control all contribute to fluctuations in travel duration. Understanding these seasonal influences empowers travelers to anticipate potential challenges, plan itineraries strategically, and manage expectations realistically. Integrating seasonal considerations into travel planning contributes to a smoother, more predictable, and ultimately more efficient journey between Charlotte and Chicago.
8. Air Traffic Control
Air traffic control (ATC) plays a critical, albeit often unseen, role in determining flight times between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). ATC procedures and directives directly impact flight routes, departure and arrival sequencing, and overall airspace management, influencing both the predictability and efficiency of air travel along this route. Understanding the influence of ATC on CLT to ORD flight time provides valuable context for managing travel expectations and appreciating the complexities of air travel operations.
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Ground Control and Departure Sequencing
Ground control manages aircraft movement on the airport surface, including taxiing to and from runways. Departure sequencing, determined by ATC, dictates the order in which aircraft take off. Congestion at CLT during peak hours can lead to departure delays, impacting overall CLT to ORD flight time. For example, an aircraft scheduled for an on-time departure might experience delays due to ground congestion and subsequent queuing for takeoff clearance, effectively extending the overall journey duration.
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En Route Control and Flight Path Management
Once airborne, aircraft operating between CLT and ORD fall under the jurisdiction of en route controllers. These controllers manage aircraft separation, assign altitudes, and direct flight paths. Weather systems, other air traffic, and airspace restrictions can influence the assigned route and altitude, impacting flight time. A flight might be directed to deviate from the most direct route due to weather conditions, potentially increasing the overall flight duration.
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Approach Control and Arrival Sequencing
As aircraft approach ORD, they transition to the control of approach controllers. Arrival sequencing, managed by ATC, determines the order in which aircraft land. Congestion at ORD, particularly during peak hours, can lead to holding patterns and delays in landing, impacting overall CLT to ORD flight time. An aircraft might experience delays circling in a holding pattern awaiting clearance to land, adding to the total journey duration.
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Impact of Weather and Airspace Restrictions
ATC adapts to dynamic conditions such as weather systems and temporary flight restrictions (TFRs). Severe weather near CLT or ORD can lead to ground stops, delaying departures and arrivals. TFRs, often implemented for security or safety reasons, can necessitate rerouting and subsequently impact flight times. A flight might experience significant delays if a TFR is implemented along its planned route, requiring a deviation to a longer alternative path.
In summary, air traffic control exerts a significant influence on CLT to ORD flight time. Understanding the complexities of ground control, en route control, approach control, and the impact of dynamic factors like weather and airspace restrictions provides valuable context for travelers. Acknowledging the role of ATC in managing the intricate flow of air traffic between these two major airports allows for more realistic expectations regarding potential delays and contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing overall travel time.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding flight durations between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD). The information provided aims to clarify potential ambiguities and offer practical insights for travelers planning journeys along this route.
Question 1: What is the typical flight duration for a direct flight from CLT to ORD?
Direct flights between CLT and ORD typically range from 1 hour and 50 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes. However, actual flight times can vary due to factors such as weather conditions, air traffic control, and specific flight paths.
Question 2: How do connecting flights impact overall travel time between CLT and ORD?
Connecting flights introduce layovers, which significantly extend overall travel time. The duration of layovers, the efficiency of the connecting airport, and potential delays all contribute to increased journey duration. Connecting flights might offer cost advantages but require careful consideration of the added time in transit.
Question 3: What are the primary factors influencing flight times between CLT and ORD?
Several factors influence flight times, including weather conditions, air traffic control directives, airline schedules, aircraft type, and time of day. Understanding these factors allows travelers to anticipate potential variations and plan accordingly.
Question 4: How do seasonal variations affect CLT to ORD flight times?
Seasonal changes in weather patterns, holiday travel demand, and airline schedule adjustments contribute to fluctuations in flight times. Winter weather in Chicago, increased holiday travel volume, and adjusted airline schedules can all impact travel duration.
Question 5: What role does air traffic control play in determining CLT to ORD flight times?
Air traffic control manages aircraft movement both on the ground and in the air. Ground delays, departure sequencing, en route routing, and arrival sequencing all influence flight times. ATC adapts to dynamic conditions such as weather and airspace restrictions, potentially impacting travel duration.
Question 6: How can travelers minimize potential delays and optimize travel time between CLT and ORD?
Strategies for mitigating potential delays include booking direct flights when feasible, allowing ample connection time for connecting itineraries, monitoring weather forecasts, checking flight status updates, and considering off-peak travel times. Flexibility and proactive planning contribute significantly to efficient and predictable travel experiences.
Understanding the dynamics influencing flight times between CLT and ORD empowers travelers to make informed decisions, manage expectations, and mitigate potential disruptions. Proactive planning and realistic assessments of potential delays contribute to smoother and more efficient travel experiences.
For further information regarding specific flight schedules, pricing, and airline options, consult individual airline websites or reputable travel booking platforms.
Optimizing Travel Between Charlotte and Chicago
Minimizing travel time and maximizing efficiency between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) requires strategic planning and consideration of various factors. The following tips offer practical guidance for optimizing travel along this route.
Tip 1: Prioritize Direct Flights: Direct flights eliminate the time and potential complications associated with layovers. While potentially costing more, the time saved often outweighs the price difference, particularly for time-sensitive travel.
Tip 2: Book Strategically: Booking flights in advance, particularly during peak travel seasons, secures preferred itineraries and potentially lower fares. Flexibility with travel dates and times often yields cost savings and less congested flights.
Tip 3: Monitor Weather Forecasts: Weather, especially in Chicago, significantly impacts flight operations. Monitoring forecasts allows for proactive adjustments to travel plans and mitigates the impact of potential weather-related delays.
Tip 4: Consider Time of Day: Peak travel times often experience greater congestion and increased likelihood of delays. Opting for off-peak travel, when feasible, can streamline the journey.
Tip 5: Research Airline Options: Airlines vary in terms of on-time performance, baggage fees, and in-flight amenities. Evaluating airline options based on individual priorities enhances the overall travel experience.
Tip 6: Utilize Real-Time Flight Tracking: Staying informed about flight status via real-time tracking tools allows for proactive adjustments to ground transportation arrangements and minimizes the disruption caused by unexpected delays.
Tip 7: Factor in Airport Transit Time: Navigating large airports like CLT and ORD requires time. Factoring in transit time between terminals, security checkpoints, and baggage claim ensures realistic travel time estimations.
Tip 8: Plan for Potential Delays: Developing contingency plans for potential delays, such as alternative ground transportation arrangements or backup flight options, minimizes disruption and maintains schedule flexibility.
Implementing these strategies empowers travelers to optimize travel time between Charlotte and Chicago, minimizing potential disruptions and maximizing overall efficiency. Informed decision-making and proactive planning contribute significantly to smoother, more predictable, and ultimately more productive journeys.
By integrating these tips into travel planning, individuals can navigate the complexities of air travel more effectively and arrive at their destination prepared and on schedule. The next section will conclude this comprehensive exploration of CLT to ORD flight time.
Conclusion
This exploration of flight duration between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) has examined key influencing factors. From the typical duration of direct flights to the complexities introduced by connecting itineraries, layovers, and airline choices, the analysis has provided a comprehensive overview. Furthermore, the impact of external elements such as time of day, seasonal variations, and air traffic control procedures has been elucidated, contributing to a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature of air travel along this route. The importance of strategic planning, informed decision-making, and proactive adaptation to potential disruptions has been emphasized throughout.
Efficient and predictable travel between CLT and ORD relies on a comprehensive understanding of these interconnected factors. By integrating these insights into travel planning processes, individuals and businesses can optimize itineraries, manage expectations, and mitigate potential disruptions. This knowledge empowers travelers to navigate the complexities of modern air travel effectively, transforming potential travel challenges into opportunities for seamless and productive journeys. Continued awareness of these dynamics will remain essential for efficient and informed travel between Charlotte and Chicago.
