John Glenn Columbus International Airport

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is not just an air gateway to the heart of Ohio, United States, but also a place with a rich history. Opened in 1929, it bears the name of the legendary astronaut and senator John Glenn, and its IATA code — CMH — is a reminder of its original name, Columbus Municipal Hangar. Today, it is the second-busiest airport in the state, serving as a vital transport hub for millions of travellers embarking on business trips and holidays.

Below is the essential information about the airport presented in a convenient format.

John Glenn Airport attracts travellers not only with its convenience but also with its unique atmosphere. Thanks to its relatively small size, it is easy to navigate, making the pre-flight screening and boarding process quick and comfortable. One of the airport's main features is its commitment to art: here you can see the impressive sculpture "Brushstrokes in Flight" by the famous artist Roy Lichtenstein, as well as a constantly rotating exhibition of local artists as part of the "Gateway to the Arts" programme. For a comfortable wait for their flight, passengers can visit the Escape Lounge, open to all, or enjoy local beverages at the bar from the local Land-Grant establishment.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH).

• Official Website: flycolumbus.com. Here you will find flight schedules, parking information, and services.
• Inquiry Phone: +1 (614) 239-4000. General information about airport operations can be obtained at this number.
• Address: 4600 International Gateway, Columbus, OH 43219, United States.
• Email: The airport does not provide a direct email for communication. Questions can be asked via a special contact form on the official website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram; they can usually be found under the username @FlyCMH.
• Lost & Found: If you have lost something within the terminal building, please contact the Lost & Found office at +1 (614) 239-4029. For items left on board an aircraft, please contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support: For consultations and passenger assistance, the main airport phone number is used: +1 (614) 239-4000.

Getting to John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) from downtown Columbus or the city of Gahanna, where it is located, is quite simple thanks to several modes of transport. The most budget-friendly method is public transport. The bus operator COTA offers a special route connecting the airport with the city centre. The trip takes about 25-35 minutes depending on traffic and costs just a few dollars, making it an ideal choice for travellers with light luggage.

For those who value comfort and time, the best options are taxis or ridesharing services such as Uber and Lyft. Taxi stands are located right outside the terminal, and you can order a car via an app in a designated waiting area. A trip to downtown Columbus usually takes 15-20 minutes and will cost approximately 25-40 dollars. This is particularly convenient if you are travelling with family or a large number of suitcases.

If you plan to travel actively around the state of Ohio in the United States, it is worth considering car rental. Offices of all major rental companies are present at the airport, allowing you to choose a car to suit any taste and budget. For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, various parking options are provided: from hourly parking in the garage next to the terminal to more economical long-term lots, from where free shuttles run to the terminal. It is recommended to book a parking space online in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Although John Glenn Columbus International Airport is the main one for this region, depending on your route, other air hubs may be convenient. For example, just 20 km away is Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), and further away are James M. Cox Dayton International Airport (DAY) and Akron-Canton Airport (CAK), offering alternative flights.

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. It operates one main terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to move between different buildings. All infrastructure — from check-in to boarding gates — is concentrated in one place.

The terminal is divided into three passenger concourses (wings), designated by letters: Concourse A, Concourse B, and Concourse C. Check-in counters and the security screening area are located on the main level of the terminal. After passing security control, passengers enter the central hall, from where they can easily proceed to any of the three concourses. The baggage claim area is located on the lower level.

Each concourse serves specific airlines, which helps passengers orient themselves faster:

• Concourse A is primarily used by Southwest Airlines.
• Concourse B serves American Airlines and United Airlines flights.
• Concourse C is the largest and serves most other carriers, including Delta Air Lines, Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines.

Moving between concourses is not difficult, as they are all connected to each other and are located in the "clean" (airside) zone after screening. You will not need to go through security control again to move from one wing to another. The distances between them are short and can be easily covered on foot in a few minutes.

On average, it is recommended to allow about 60-90 minutes for check-in and security screening before a domestic flight departure. During morning and evening peak hours, this time may increase, so it is worth arriving at the airport in advance, approximately two hours prior. Signs in the airport are intuitive, but for added convenience, you can study the terminal map on the official airport website beforehand.

The history of John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), located in the city of Gahanna, Ohio, began on July 8, 1929. Originally named Port Columbus, it was built in just 88 days. Its opening was a significant event in the history of aviation in the United States, as the airport became the eastern terminal for the first transcontinental air-rail service organised by Transcontinental Air Transport (TAT). The legendary aviator Charles Lindbergh attended the opening ceremony and landed the first plane on its runway.

During World War II, the airport played a strategic role. In 1942, it was leased to the US Navy and functioned as Naval Air Station Columbus. A factory located here produced more than 5,000 aircraft for the fleet's needs. After the war, the airport returned to civil use and began to develop actively. By 1958, a new terminal worth 12 million dollars was opened to cope with the growing passenger flow.

Subsequent decades were marked by constant growth and modernisation. In 1979, a major renovation of the terminal was carried out, and in 1989 and 1998, new waiting halls (Concourses A and C) were added. One of the most significant events in the airport's modern history was its renaming. In 2016, in honour of the 95th birthday of the famous astronaut and senator John Glenn, an Ohio native, the airport received its modern name — John Glenn Columbus International Airport. This was a tribute to a national hero and his contribution to the history of space exploration.

Among interesting facts, it is worth noting that the original terminal building, designed in the Art Deco style, has been preserved and is a historical landmark. The airport also became one of the first in the country to install an Instrument Landing System (ILS) in 1940, which significantly improved flight safety in poor weather. Today, CMH continues to develop, serving as an important transport hub for central Ohio and a living monument to the golden age of aviation.

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) offers passengers a wide range of services and amenities to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. In the terminal, you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, and dining venues where you can have a quick snack or a full meal, enjoying American and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops offering souvenirs, books, electronics, and duty-free goods.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. For charging electronic devices, numerous stations with power outlets and USB ports are provided. Passengers wishing to rest in a calmer environment can use the services of premium lounges, offering snacks, beverages, and a cosy atmosphere away from the main bustle.

For financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are installed in the airport. In case of need, passengers can seek medical assistance at a special station. For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms equipped with changing tables and everything necessary for infant care are available, making travelling with a family significantly easier.

The airport is fully adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. It features ramps, lifts, specially equipped restrooms, and an escort service that can be booked in advance. For business travellers, business centres and conference rooms are available for meetings and negotiations. Several hotels are located near the airport, easily accessible by shuttle, which is convenient for transit passengers or those with an early departure.

At John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), passengers will find diverse dining options to suit every taste and budget. Establishments are located both in the public area before screening (landside) and in the "clean" zone after screening (airside) in departure halls A, B, and C.

The airport takes pride in representing the culinary scene of Columbus. Here you can try specialty beverages from local producers such as BrewDog and Land-Grant Brewing Company, or order pizza at the automated pizzeria PeppTron by Donatos. For fine dining connoisseurs, the Escape Lounge features dishes from a renowned local chef.

Where to eat at CMH Airport

• Before Screening (Landside): For a quick snack, Burger King and Charleys Philly Steaks are available. A unique experience is offered by the automated pizzeria PeppTron by Donatos, where a robot prepares hot pizza in a few minutes. For a full lunch, you can visit the Hangar 815 restaurant. One of the Starbucks coffee shops is also located here.
• Concourse A: In this hall, you can find Vino Volo, offering a wide selection of beverages and snacks, as well as the Chili's Too restaurant, serving Tex-Mex cuisine.
• Concourse B: This is the most extensive food court. It houses celebrity restaurants such as Wolfgang Puck Kitchen Counter and Eddie George’s Grille 27. Fans of local beverages will appreciate the venues of local producers BrewDog and Land-Grant Brewing Co. For a quick snack, pretzels from Auntie Anne's Pretzels are suitable. Also in Concourse B are a Starbucks coffee shop and the Escape Lounge – The Centurion® Studio Partner with complimentary meals and drinks.
• Concourse C: Here you can dine at the American Craft Tavern, which offers American cuisine and local drinks, or have a snack at the PGA TOUR Grill.

Special Dietary Requirements and Prices

Many establishments offer options for passengers with special dietary needs. For example, the Escape Lounge offers vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Farmer's Fridge vending machines with fresh salads, bowls, and healthy snacks, many of which are suitable for vegans, are installed throughout the airport. Some outlets, like Auntie Anne's, can prepare vegan pretzels upon request (without butter). Information about Halal dishes is best verified directly at the restaurants. The price range varies from inexpensive fast-food chains to mid-range restaurants. Opening hours may change, so it is recommended to check current information on the official airport website before departure.

To ensure your journey through John Glenn Columbus International Airport, located in the city of Gahanna, United States, goes smoothly and without stress, use these proven tips. A thoughtful approach will help save time, money, and nerves.

Arrival Time at the Airport. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. This time is usually sufficient to calmly go through all procedures, including baggage check-in and security screening. During peak hours, such as early mornings or holiday eves, it is better to add another 30-40 minutes.

Check-in and Security. The quickest way to save time is online check-in for your flight, available with most airlines 24 hours before departure. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage at a special counter. When passing through security screening (TSA), be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your hand luggage. For expedited screening, you can use the TSA PreCheck® programme if you are a member.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If the airline allows you to select a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats are ideal for those who love watching the views, but you will have to disturb neighbours to get out. Aisle seats provide more freedom of movement and convenient access to the lavatory.

Hand Luggage. Remember the rule for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. It is forbidden to bring sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances into the cabin. Always check current rules on the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website before departure.

Passengers with Connections. Columbus Airport is quite compact, making transfers relatively quick. Upon arrival, immediately check the information boards for the gate number of your next flight — it may change. Ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you need to go through customs and passport control.

Customs Control. When arriving on an international flight, you will have to go through passport control, where a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer will ask a few questions about the purpose of your trip. After collecting your luggage, you will pass through customs. Fill out the customs declaration in advance if required.

Saving Time and Money. Book parking online in advance to get a more favourable rate. Take an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing screening. Instead of a taxi, consider using public transport, such as COTA buses, for the trip to downtown Columbus.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information and possible options (e.g., rebooking). Find out about your rights to compensation or provision of services (meals, hotel). While waiting, you can explore the airport's shops and restaurants, many of which represent local brands.