Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 82; Flight Crew Total 13073; Flight Crew Type 265
Communication Breakdown; Distraction; Situational Awareness; Workload
ATC Issue All Types; Conflict NMAC
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action
Airspace Structure; Environment - Non Weather Related; Procedure
Chicago Approach assigned us an altitude of 3;000 FT from JOT to KGYY putting us in an environment with uncontrolled general aviation aircraft. We were advised of uncontrolled aircraft traffic at our altitude and was given a heading to avoid it; but it was given too late. An RA was commanded which we complied with putting us in a descent to avoid the traffic. ATC was informed of our actions. After initiating the descent the conflicting aircraft was observed passing overhead at our assigned 3;000 FT altitude. Airports were overflown on this route to Gary with several general aviation aircraft nearby. Being in this environment for such a long time flying to Gary is to be considered hazardous and warrants increased vigilance. Chicago Approach was extremely busy at this time working with traffic above us arriving Chicago Midway. Reliance on Approach Control for aircraft separation in this high traffic area is not to be assumed even if flying IFR.
A Corporate pilot reported a near miss en route to GGY after being assigned 3;000 FT by C90 in very busy airspace.