John Glenn Columbus International Airport [CMH] — Ultimate Terminal Guide

John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) is the main airport serving central Ohio, giving travelers a gateway to Columbus and the surrounding region. After surpassing prepandemic passenger numbers in 2024 by serving more than 8.9 million travelers, the airport has begun construction on a new terminal to accommodate its expanding capacity.

Formerly called Port Columbus International Airport, CMH was renamed in 2016 to honor astronaut and U.S. Senator John Glenn. Its operations are overseen by the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, which also manages nearby Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), home to Allegiant Air.

Quick Info

Airport: John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)
Terminals: 1 terminal with 3 concourses — A, B, and C
Airport Address: 4600 International Gateway, Columbus, OH 43219
Distance From Downtown Columbus: 6 miles (9.7 km)
Website: flycolumbus.com
Phone Number: 614-239-4000
Passengers Served: 8.9 million annually
Destinations: 50+ domestic and international destinations
Flight Information: Departures and arrivals info can be found online

Airlines Operating From CMH

CMH primarily serves domestic routes, with limited international service to Toronto, Canada, and Cancun, Mexico. Direct flights to Montreal, Canada, will begin in May 2026.

The following airlines operate out of John Glenn Columbus International Airport:

Concourse A

• Southwest Airlines

Concourse B

• American Airlines
• Spirit Airlines
• United Airlines

Concourse C

• Air Canada
• Alaska Airlines
• Breeze Airways
• Delta Air Lines
• Frontier Airlines
• Sun Country Airlines
• Viva Aerobus

CMH Columbus Airport Map

John Glenn Columbus International Airport has a simple, easy-to-navigate layout designed to keep passenger flow smooth and hassle-free. The terminal and departure concourses sit on the east side of the airport, accessible from International Gateway — the one-way access road that controls traffic around airport property.

There are parking options located close to the terminal, and several hotels available on airport property. Regular shuttles run along International Gateway, taking passengers to and from the remote parking lots and the rental car center.

CMH Airport Terminals

The airport has a single main terminal with 2 levels, where the upper level handles departures and the lower level serves arrivals. Flights depart from 3 departure concourses: Concourse A, Concourse B, and Concourse C. Each concourse serves a different mix of airlines (excluding Concourse A, which only has Southwest Airlines), but all are connected landside via the central ticketing area.

Each concourse has its own security checkpoint, meaning travelers must reclear security if they need to move between concourses. CMH’s compact design means walking distances are short from the terminal to each concourse, for quick access to dining and shopping before your flight.

Main Terminal – Level 1 Baggage Claim

Arrivals is located on the terminal’s lower level, where you’ll find baggage claim and direct access to ground transportation just outside the building. The interfaith meditation room is on this level as well as several vending machines for refreshments.

Main Terminal – Level 2 Ticketing

Departures are on the upper level, where curbside passenger drop-off is available right outside the building. The ticketing desks are in the central area of the terminal, along with a small selection of cafes, shops, ATMs, and an information desk.

Concourse A

Concourse A is at the south end of the terminal and operates flights for Southwest Airlines. After the security checkpoint, there are 5 gates numbered A2 to A6. The are a few shops and restaurants to pass the time before your flight, including a Chili’s and Starbucks.

Concourse B

Concourse B is at the east side of the terminal, also with a dedicated security checkpoint at the entrance. There are 14 gates numbered B19 to B26, B28 to B32, and B34 to B36. There’s a good selection of shops and restaurants, and an Escape Lounge is near gate B32. This is the only lounge in the airport.

Concourse C

Concourse C is at the north end of the terminal, serving flights from 10 departure gates, numbered C46 to C56. Passengers must clear the security checkpoint to enter the concourse.

Redevelopment Projects

John Glenn Columbus International Airport is undergoing a major redevelopment designed to modernize the travel experience and support future growth. The CMH Next project will introduce a completely new terminal to replace the airport’s current one, which dates back to 1958. Expanded gate capacity, upgraded amenities, and a streamlined, centralized security checkpoint are just some of the enhancements. Work commenced in 2024 and is expected to be completed in 2029.

Inter-Terminal Transport

Walking

CMH doesn’t offer inter-terminal transport due to its compact layout and concourses that are closely connected to the main terminal. After ticketing, passengers can walk to their departure concourse, where they will pass through that concourse’s security checkpoint. Once through the security checkpoint, these are the estimated walking times within the concourses:

• Concourse A: 1 to 3 minutes
• Concourse B: 1 to 3 minutes
• Concourse C: 2 to 5 minutes

Security and Customs at CMH

John Glenn Columbus International Airport has 3 security checkpoints, located at the entrances to each concourse. These are open between 4 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. Visit the airport’s security page for a chart showing the estimated waiting times for a specific day.

TSA PreCheck

CMH has TSA PreCheck at all security checkpoints, giving eligible travelers access to faster, more convenient screening. Dedicated lanes help reduce wait times, and passengers can keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on.

Passengers can enroll for TSA PreCheck through CLEAR with no appointment necessary. Just head to one of the CLEAR pods where an ambassador will assist with your enrollment.

Global Entry Program

CMH offers Global Entry to expedite the processing of preapproved, low-risk travelers through international arrivals. With Enrollment on Arrival, conditionally approved applicants can complete an in-person interview within the international arrivals area.

The airport doesn’t have an Enrollment Center outside the secure area for visitors. The nearest Enrollment Center is located at the Port Office Building, 3800 Wright Drive, Vandalia, Ohio 45377.

CLEAR

CLEAR is available at CMH, offering a faster, touchless identity verification process before security. Members can bypass standard ID checks and head straight to the screening lanes. CLEAR stations are located near all 3 security checkpoints, helping frequent travelers move through the airport quickly and efficiently.

Mobile Passport

Mobile Passport Control (MPC) is supported at John Glen International Airport. With MPC, eligible travellers can submit passport information and customs declarations in advance via a smartphone app, avoiding paper forms and often speeding up border control.

Once you land, present your digital receipt and passport at a designated MPC lane for faster processing.

CMH Columbus Airport Lounges

John Glenn Columbus International Airport only has 1 lounge for standard passengers — Escape Lounge — The Centurion Studio Partner. It’s located after security in Concourse B near gate 32.

The lounge is open daily from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. and welcomes all passengers, either through paid entry or complimentary access with a Priority Pass membership or select credit cards. Lounge amenities include a small buffet and bar service. There are no bathrooms within the lounge.

There is also a USO Lounge for eligible military members and their families located near the Concourse C exit lane.

Hot Tip:

Avoid paying for an airport lounge day pass with personal and business credit cards for airport lounge access.

Dining and Drinks at CMH

John Glenn Columbus International Airport offers a good variety of dining options, from quick grab-and-go spots to sit-down restaurants. Travelers can enjoy coffee shops, bars, and chain restaurants, including Bob Evans Express, BrewDog, Donatos Pizza, Starbucks, and Vino Volo, throughout the concourses, making it easy to grab a bite before a flight. Be sure to stop by a Jeni’s Spendid Ice Creams (a Columbus-based favorite) vending machine for a sweet treat.

Nontraveling visitors or early-arrival passengers have a few presecurity options, including Charleys Cheesesteaks, Hangar 815, and Starbucks.

Although the dining options are good, passengers often complain about the limited hours of operation for these restaurants and cafes. Be sure to check ahead based on your flight time.

CMH Wi-Fi

CMH provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal and concourses under the network name “CMH Public Wi-Fi.” With some of the fastest Wi-Fi speeds among U.S. airports, you’ll have no problem working or enjoying some preflight entertainment on your devices.

Power outlets are available throughout the terminal.

CMH Airport Lost and Found

CMH’s lost and found department is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and stores lost items for up to 90 days. If an item is lost during a flight, passengers are advised to contact their airline. If it’s lost anywhere else around the airport, passengers can complete this claim form.

Additional Airport Information

Information Services

CMH has 2 staffed information desks available presecurity for visitors requiring assistance. These are located near the ticketing desks and on the baggage claim level near the escalator.

Children’s Play Areas

There are no children’s play areas in the Columbus airport.

Baby Facilities

CMH has 4 dedicated nursing rooms, located at:

• Concourse A near gate A2
• Concourse B near gate B32
• Concourse C near gate C52
• Baggage claim near baggage carousel 1

Traveling With a Pet

CMH has a pet relief area at the south end of the terminal, outside baggage claim.

Hot Tip:

Plan ahead to make your journey and that of your furry friend stress-free with our ultimate guide to traveling with pets.

Smoking Areas

Smoking is only permitted in designated areas outside the terminal building. There is no smoking anywhere postsecurity.

Prayer

An interfaith meditation room is available for all passengers on the arrivals level near baggage carousel 6.

Money

ATMs can be found in the following locations:

• Baggage claim near the escalators
• Ticketing between the ticketing desks and Concourse B security checkpoint
• Concourse A near gate A3
• Concourse B near gate B22
• Concourse C near C51

Due to the airport’s limited international route coverage, there are no currency exchange facilities at CMH.

Luggage Storage

As with most U.S. airports, CMH does not offer luggage storage. The closest services would be offered in central Columbus.

Water Filling Stations

Water filling stations are available in every concourse:

• Concourse A between gates A2 and A3
• Concourse B near gate B32
• Concourse C near gate C52

Paw Force One

Paw Force One at CMH brings trained therapy dogs and their handlers into the terminal, giving travelers a comforting and friendly experience that helps ease stress before flying.

Important CMH Phone Numbers

Customer Service: 614-239-4000

Travel to and From CMH

Ground transportation at CMH includes taxis, ride-sharing services, shuttles, rental cars, and COTA bus service, providing travelers with convenient options to reach downtown Columbus and the surrounding areas.

The ground transportation area is on the lower level outside the arrivals area.

Transport Options

Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA)

COTA bus services offer a convenient option for travelers heading to or from downtown Columbus and nearby neighborhoods.

• Route 7 buses stop at the airport (at International Gateway/Sawyer Road and outside baggage claim). Buses operate approximately every 30 minutes, Monday through Friday, and hourly on weekends.

Limousine and Charter Bus Services

Prearranged services are available for pickup outside the baggage claim area. The airport recommends these limousine and charter bus providers.

Taxis

Taxis at CMH are available on the arrivals level outside baggage claim in the ground transportation area. Fares from the airport to downtown vary by destination, but are around $29. For any questions, passengers can call the airport’s taxi management team at 614-239-8294.

Ride-Share

Ride-share operators Uber and Lyft are approved to operate at CMH, with both picking up passengers in the designated ground transportation area (cross over the arrivals drive from outside baggage claim).

Directions by Car to CMH

Arriving From Downtown Columbus

Head east on East Broad Street towards Lazelle Street. Turn left at the second cross street onto US-23 North/North 4th Street. Use the right 2 lanes to merge onto I-670 East via the slip road to the airport. Take exit 9 towards Airport/Stelzer Road, and continue onto International Gateway for access to the terminal and airport parking.

CMH Airport Parking Information

CMH offers a variety of parking options. Visitors can choose convenient covered parking or budget-friendly outdoor lots, making it easy to find a spot that fits their trip duration.

Terminal Garage

The terminal garage at John Glenn Columbus Airport provides covered parking just steps from the terminal. It’s the most efficient option for passengers seeking quick, hassle-free airport entry, with walkways that connect directly to the terminal building.

Short and long-term parking is available in the terminal garage at these rates:

• Short-term garage area (level 4)
  • First hour: $6
  • Per 24-hour period: $30
• Long-term garage area (levels 1 to 6)
  • First hour: $7
  • Per 24-hour period: $24

Complimentary electric car charging stations are available in the covered long-term parking garage areas.

Hot Tip:

You can charge your electric vehicle in the long-term parking area, the walking parking lot, and the red parking.

Walking Lot

Uncovered parking is available in the walking lot, located northwest of the terminal building. It’s a 6- to 10-minute walk along International Gateway with parking costing $16 per 24-hour period.

Red and Green Lots

The red and green parking lots offer affordable, long-term parking with easy access to the terminal via frequent shuttle buses. These outdoor lots provide a budget-friendly option for extended trips, available at these rates:

• Red lot (3795 International Gateway, Columbus, OH 43219)
  • Per 24-hour period: $11
• Green lot (3256 East 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43219)
  • First hour: Free
  • Per 24-hour period: $9

Valet Parking

Valet parking offers the quickest and closest drop-off option at CMH. Travelers can leave their vehicle right at the terminal entrance on departure and have it dropped back to them on arrival. This service costs $16 for the first hour and $30 per 24-hour period.

Pickup and Drop-Off Parking

Passengers can be dropped off curbside outside the terminal, with a quick goodbye permitted while staying with the vehicle. Visitors escorting passengers into the terminal must park in the short-term parking lot.

For passenger pickup, visitors can wait in one of the 2 free cell phone waiting lots or the green shuttle lot that offers 1-hour of free parking. The closest cell phone lot is situated between the air traffic control tower and the terminal. A second cell phone lot is located just as you enter the one-way loop around International Gateway. The green shuttle lot is at 3256 East 17th Ave., Columbus, OH 43219.

Off-Site and Hotel Parking

The lowest on-site daily parking rate at CMH is $9, though off-site lots can offer more affordable options. By booking through airportparkingreservations.com, daily rates start around $7.50, and most external lots provide shuttle services to and from the airport.

Parking for Passengers With Disabilities

ADA-designated spaces are available in every parking area at CMH, and all shuttle buses are equipped with lifts to accommodate wheelchairs and electric scooters.

Parking Contact Numbers

General parking: 614-239-4000
Executive parking: 380-203-2101

Car Rental at CMH Airport

The rental car center at John Glenn Columbus Airport is conveniently located just a few minutes from the terminal, accessible for passengers via a quick shuttle ride from the ground transportation area outside baggage claim. Passengers can book vehicles with the following rental companies:

CMH Airport Hotels

Numerous hotels are located near John Glenn Columbus International Airport, offering convenient accommodations just minutes from the terminal. Passengers can choose from 2- to 4-star hotels that offer amenities such as complimentary breakfast, free shuttles, and business facilities. These nearby hotels provide easy access for early flights, layovers, or quick trips to downtown Columbus.

Top 3 Hotel Stays Using Points

Residence Inn by Marriott Columbus Airport is one of the closest hotels to John Glenn Columbus International Airport. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, an indoor pool, and outdoor seating areas. The hotel also provides a free airport shuttle, making arrivals and departures stress-free. With easy access to downtown Columbus, Easton, and local attractions, this location is a great choice for both business and leisure travelers seeking a relaxed stay. With Marriott’s dynamic price model for award nights, free nights at the hotel are available from 22,000 Marriott Bonvoy points.

Another convenient option on airport property is the Hilton Garden Inn Columbus Airport. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, with free Wi-Fi and handy in-room amenities. Guests can unwind at the on-site restaurant and bar, and have the option to include breakfast in their room rate. Pet-friendly rooms are available with a flat fee for any furry friends (up to 2 cats or dogs permitted). Hilton Honors award night redemptions vary by season, and 36,000 points was the lowest nightly rate we could find for this hotel.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbus Airport East sits just off Highway 16, offering quick access to both CMH and downtown Columbus. Guests can enjoy an indoor pool, fitness center, business facilities, and a complimentary breakfast. A daily shuttle runs to the airport from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., making travel simple and convenient. IHG One Rewards members can book a nightly stay starting from 16,000 points.

Final Thoughts

Although passengers frequently praise the ease of navigating John Glenn Columbus International Airport, it is often criticized for its limited amenities, including a lack of lounges and limited out-of-hours dining options. As a result, it ranked last overall in our “Best and Worst Airports in the U.S.” survey. Within this survey, CMH also scored poorly on public transport. While a new train service is unfortunately not part of the plan, the terminal redevelopment is preparing for a new era of improved facilities and services.