CMH Airport: What You Need to Know Before Flying Through Columbus

I was stuck at CMH during a winter storm last year, watching snow pile up on the ramp while my connecting flight kept getting pushed back. What could have been a frustrating experience turned into an opportunity to really explore this airport – and honestly, it’s better equipped than most regional hubs I’ve passed through. John Glenn Columbus International Airport has some character to it that bigger airports lack.

History of CMH Airport

Probably should have led with this, honestly: CMH has been around since 1929. Originally called Port Columbus Airport, it was part of an ambitious transcontinental air-rail service that aimed to shorten coast-to-coast travel time back when that was genuinely revolutionary. The airport was renamed in 2016 to honor John Glenn, the astronaut and U.S. Senator who was Ohio’s most famous aviator.

That’s what makes CMH endearing to aviation enthusiasts – it has genuine historical significance without feeling like a museum piece. The original terminal building still stands and serves general aviation operations. Walking past it on the way to pick up a rental car, you can almost imagine what commercial aviation looked like in its earliest days.

Facilities

The terminal divides into concourses A, B, and C, each serving different airlines and destinations. Free Wi-Fi works throughout the building – and actually works, not the sluggish connection some airports offer. Charging stations are scattered around, which saved me when my phone was at 4% and I still had three hours until boarding.

For business travelers, dedicated workstations and conference rooms are available. I’ve seen people conducting actual video meetings from the quiet spaces near Concourse C.

Dining and Shopping

The dining options range from quick bites to actual sit-down meals. Donatos Pizza is solid Ohio chain fare. Eddie George’s Grille 27 offers something more substantial if you have time. The Scoreboard and Taste of Columbus sell local goods and souvenirs that aren’t just generic airport merchandise – actual Ohio stuff you might want to bring home.

Transportation and Parking

Getting to and from CMH is straightforward. Rental cars, taxis, rideshare services, and public transportation all operate here. The parking situation includes short-term, long-term, a parking garage, surface lots, and valet options. Shuttle services run between the lots and terminal continuously.

Rental Cars

Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and the usual suspects operate at CMH. The counters are on the ground floor of the parking garage – convenient enough that you’re not hiking across the airport to get your car.

Security Procedures

Standard TSA procedures apply here. TSA PreCheck lanes are available for expedited screening. The general recommendation is two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international, though I’ve found CMH security moves faster than most airports its size.

Airlines and Destinations

American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United all operate from CMH with nonstop service to destinations across the United States. Seasonal and charter flights extend to international locations during peak travel times. Over 160 daily flights serve more than 40 destinations – not bad for a mid-sized regional hub.

Passenger Services

Accessible facilities for disabled travelers include elevators, dedicated seating areas, and accessible restrooms throughout. Pet relief areas exist for traveling with animals. Family restrooms accommodate parents with children. Information desks are positioned where you’d actually expect to find them.

Future Developments

Terminal expansions, upgraded baggage handling systems, and improved roadway access are all in the works. The airport is also pursuing sustainability initiatives focused on energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction. CMH is clearly positioning itself to handle growth rather than just maintaining the status quo.

Interesting Facts

• CMH was one of the first airports to be part of a coast-to-coast air-rail service.
• The airport was renamed in 2016 to honor astronaut and senator John Glenn.
• CMH hosts over 160 daily flights serving more than 40 destinations.
• The airport’s original terminal building still stands and is used for general aviation purposes.

Traveler Tips

• Arrive early during peak travel times, but CMH security generally moves efficiently.
• The mobile app provides flight status and airport maps that actually help.
• TSA PreCheck makes a real difference here during busy periods.
• If you have extra time, the dining options are better than typical airport fare.

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