What is the purpose of the penalty box at O'Hare International Airport (ORD)?

The penalty box at O'Hare International Airport serves as a holding pad for aircraft that are not yet ready to take off. This area is utilized when there are situations, such as congestion or delays in departing aircraft, that require some planes to be temporarily held before they can proceed to the runway. The penalty box allows for better traffic management and helps avoid further delays by providing a designated space for aircraft until they can receive clearance for takeoff or repositioning. It plays a crucial role in maintaining efficient operations at one of the busiest airports in the world, ensuring that both arrivals and departures are managed smoothly.