how many airports are in columbus ohio

How Many Airports Are in Columbus, Ohio?

Columbus, Ohio, and its surrounding metropolitan area are served by several airports, ranging from large international hubs to smaller regional facilities. While the count can vary depending on the exact definition used (e.g., public vs. private), there are generally considered to be around six airports within a reasonable proximity to the city center. These airports cater to various needs, including commercial passenger travel, cargo operations, and general aviation.

Columbus’s Primary Airport: John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH)

The main airport serving Columbus is the John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH). As the largest passenger airport in the region, CMH handles the vast majority of commercial flights into and out of Columbus. It offers numerous domestic routes and some international connections, serving millions of passengers each year. The airport is located about six miles east of downtown Columbus.

Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK)

While John Glenn Columbus International Airport handles most passenger traffic, Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) plays a significant role in cargo operations and has a limited number of passenger flights. LCK is located about 10 miles southeast of downtown Columbus and has a large cargo facility and is used by cargo airlines. It used to offer commercial passenger flights, but currently, Allegiant Airlines offers flights from LCK to some destinations.

Other General Aviation Airports in the Columbus Area

In addition to the two major airports, several smaller general aviation airports serve the Columbus area. These facilities primarily cater to private pilots, corporate aviation, and flight training. These include:

• Bolton Field (TZR): A reliever airport for CMH, located west of Columbus.
• Ohio State University Airport (OSU): Primarily used for flight training and research by Ohio State University.
• Delaware Municipal Airport (DLZ): Located north of Columbus, serving general aviation needs.

These smaller airports play a crucial role in supporting the region’s aviation infrastructure and providing access to air travel for a wider range of users.

Do All Airports Handle Commercial Flights?

No, not all airports in Columbus handle commercial passenger flights. John Glenn Columbus International Airport is the primary commercial airport. Rickenbacker has some commercial flights from Allegiant. The other airports primarily serve general aviation, private planes, and cargo operations.

FAQs About Columbus Airports

How far is John Glenn Columbus International Airport from downtown?

John Glenn Columbus International Airport is approximately 6 miles (9.7 kilometers) east of downtown Columbus.

Does Rickenbacker Airport offer international flights?

Rickenbacker International Airport is mainly focused on cargo operations, and has limited passenger flights. It may occasionally have charter or seasonal international flights.

Are there any direct flights from Columbus to Europe?

John Glenn Columbus International Airport may offer direct flights to Europe depending on the season and airline schedules. Travelers should check current flight availability directly with airlines.

Which airport is better for commercial flights, John Glenn or Rickenbacker?

John Glenn Columbus International Airport is significantly better for commercial passenger flights, offering a wide range of destinations and airlines. Rickenbacker has limited passenger operations.

What services are available at John Glenn Columbus International Airport?

John Glenn Columbus International Airport offers a variety of services, including restaurants, shops, car rentals, ground transportation, and passenger assistance.

Summary

Columbus, Ohio, is served by a network of airports, with John Glenn Columbus International Airport being the primary commercial hub. Rickenbacker International Airport handles significant cargo traffic and some passenger flights. Several smaller general aviation airports cater to private pilots and corporate aviation, contributing to the region’s overall air transportation infrastructure. The airports collectively provide a diverse range of aviation services to meet the needs of the city and its surrounding areas.