John Glenn Columbus International Airport

What John Glenn Columbus International Airport does

The Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA) is a government entity that operates a three-airport system in Central Ohio: John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) for commercial passengers, Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) for cargo and logistics, and Bolton Field (TZR) for general aviation. CMH is the primary commercial hub serving 12 airlines across 53 nonstop destinations, while Rickenbacker operates as a multimodal air cargo gateway with international connectivity to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East and Foreign-Trade Zone 138 status. The system includes a 900,000-square-foot Rental Car Center with nine on-site brands, multi-tier parking operations (garage, shuttle lots, valet, ezPark), and integrated ground transportation via rideshare, taxi, and COTA public transit.

The authority's core technology and infrastructure focus is the $2 billion CMH Next terminal transformation, scheduled to open in early 2029 and replacing the existing 1958-vintage facility with a nearly 1-million-square-foot terminal featuring 36 hyper-efficient gates, a consolidated TSA checkpoint, and a projected more than 50% increase in daily passenger capacity. Passenger-facing technology includes a real-time Flight Information Display System, an AI chat assistant on flycolumbus.com, ChargePoint EV charging infrastructure (20 stations in the garage, 20 in the Red Lot), and Aira visual assistance for blind and low-vision travelers via smartphone app and smart glasses.

CRAA generates revenue from multiple streams: airline landing fees and gate charges (subscription/recurring), parking transactions across tiered facilities ($7-$30 per 24-hour period), concession commissions from retail and dining (marketplace), ground transportation coordination fees, and cargo handling transactions at Rickenbacker. Customer segments split between commercial airline passengers (primary), cargo and logistics operators (primary at LCK), general aviation users, and rail/trucking intermodal partners. Routes are distributed through direct terminal services, an interactive route map on flycolumbus.com, and an active social presence across Facebook, X, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, and Threads.

Name

John Glenn Columbus International Airport

Legal name

Columbus Regional Airport Authority

Website

https://flycolumbus.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1929

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

11–50 employees

Short description

CRAA operates a three-airport Central Ohio system anchored by John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), serving 12 airlines and 53 nonstop destinations, with Rickenbacker (LCK) handling cargo and a $2 billion terminal transformation underway.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Airport Operations & Aviation Infrastructure

NAICS

Airport Operations (48811), Other Airport Operations (488119)

SIC

Airports, Flying Fields & Airport Terminal Services (4581)

akta.pro primary industry

Aircraft Turnaround Coordination & Station Management (THABAIAF)

akta.pro secondary industry

Airport Ground Transport Terminals (Rail/Bus/Coach) (THAIALAG)

Keywords

• Commercial airport operations
• Cargo logistics services
• Passenger aviation hub
• Airport parking services
• Air freight handling

Headquarters

HQ city

Columbus

HQ country

United States

HQ region

North America

Offices3 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2C

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Infrastructure, Operations, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Supply Chain

Revenue model

1. Parking Operations: On-site parking facilities including garage parking, shuttle lots (Red, Green), and valet services generate revenue through daily rates ranging from $7-$30 per 24-hour period depending on lot type.
2. Concession Revenue: Revenue from retail and dining concessions including restaurants, shops, and service providers (Vohnt car care, rental car center operations) located throughout the terminal.
3. Ground Transportation: Revenue from ground transportation providers including taxi management fees, rental car operations, and rideshare pickup coordination.
4. Landing Fees: Fees charged to airlines for landing and takeoff operations, terminal access, and gate usage at CMH and affiliated airports.
5. Cargo Operations: Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) serves as a cargo-focused facility with air freight, rail intermodal, and trucking/logistics services generating revenue from cargo handlers and logistics companies.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion2 records

Distribution channels5 records

Marketing channels4 records

Core offering

Columbus Regional Airport Authority operates a three-airport system: John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) serves as the commercial passenger hub with 12 airlines and 50+ nonstop destinations; Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) provides dedicated air cargo, rail intermodal, and trucking logistics; and Bolton Field (TZR) supports general aviation. The authority generates revenue through landing fees, parking operations, terminal concessions, ground transportation coordination, and Foreign-Trade Zone 138 trade facilitation.

Product overview

The Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA) operates a multi-airport system anchored by John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), a commercial passenger hub, alongside cargo-focused Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) and general aviation Bolton Field (TZR). CMH is undergoing a $2 billion transformation via CMH Next (opening early 2029), which will replace the 1958 terminal with a nearly 1-million-square-foot facility featuring 36 gates and 50%+ capacity increase. CMH currently serves 12 airlines with 50+ nonstop destinations. The airport offers integrated services including parking (garage, shuttle lots, valet, ezPark registered access), a 900,000-square-foot Rental Car Center with nine brands, ground transportation (rideshare, taxi, COTA), and comprehensive passenger amenities (dining, shopping, Escape Lounge). Accessibility is supported via Aira visual assistance, wheelchair services, and Journey Care Kits. LCK serves as a global logistics hub for air cargo, rail intermodal, and trucking, operating Foreign-Trade Zone 138. The airports also feature art/music programs, an AI chat assistant on flycolumbus.com, and flight information display systems connecting to airline data.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• CMH Next: $2 billion terminal transformation project at John Glenn Columbus International Airport featuring a nearly 1-million-square-foot terminal with 36 gates, scheduled to open in early 2029.
• ezPark
• Executive Parking
• FTZ 138

Products and services

• John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) The primary commercial passenger airport operated by Columbus Regional Airport Authority, serving as the main hub for commercial air travel in Central Ohio with 12 airlines and 50+ nonstop destinations.
• Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) Cargo-focused international airport operated by CRAA, serving as a major air logistics hub with international carriers flying from Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, offering air freight, rail intermodal, trucking, and warehouse/distribution services.
• Bolton Field Airport (TZR) General aviation airport operated by CRAA, supporting Columbus' business aviation market and serving private pilots and aviation enthusiasts.
• CMH Next Terminal Project A $2 billion terminal transformation project featuring a new, nearly 1-million-square-foot terminal with 36 hyper-efficient gates, consolidated TSA checkpoint, and 50%+ increased daily passenger capacity, replacing the existing facility built in 1958.
• Parking Services On-site parking including garage parking (short-term and long-term), shuttle lots (Red Lot, Green Lot), valet parking, accessible parking, and EV charging stations across all parking areas, with daily rates ranging from $7-$30 per 24-hour period.
• ezPark Program Registered traveler parking program allowing quick entry and exit from CMH parking lots and garages via an access card mailed to users, with debit/credit card charged after each visit.
• Executive Parking Designated parking spaces in the CMH garage with express lanes 24/7 for reserved parking within steps of the terminal and ticket counters.
• Rental Car Center 900,000 square foot facility housing nine on-site rental car companies (Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, and Thrifty), accessible via shuttle service from terminal arrivals curb.
• Ground Transportation Services On-demand transportation coordination including Uber and Lyft ridesharing, taxis, limo services, COTA public transit connections, and cell phone waiting lots for passenger pickup.
• Escape Lounge Airport lounge in Concourse B offering complimentary drinks and seasonal food in a locally inspired space, open to all travelers regardless of airline from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Lost & Found Services Lost and found services for items left in the airports, including items at security checkpoints. Items stored for 90 days. Open Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Accessibility Services Comprehensive accessibility features including accessible parking, wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, Universal Changing Tables, nursing rooms, tactile Braille designations, Aira visual assistance for blind/low-vision travelers, Journey Care Kits for hidden disabilities, and TSA Cares support.
• Cargo & Logistics Services Comprehensive cargo services at Rickenbacker including air freight (international carriers to Asia, Europe, Middle East), rail intermodal, trucking and logistics, and warehouse and distribution. Columbus Port Code: 4103.
• FTZ 138 (Foreign-Trade Zone) Foreign-Trade Zone 138 operated by CRAA, offering businesses customs duty deferral and elimination benefits, with service area including an interactive map and regulatory partner resources.
• Rickenbacker Aviation Exclusive ground handler at Rickenbacker International Airport providing services for the world's largest aircraft as well as corporate and leisure travel; customizable general aviation services.
• Rickenbacker Passenger Terminal Passenger terminal at Rickenbacker International Airport serving Allegiant Air, featuring Aviation Cafe, VendMobility vending, pharmacy vending, free WiFi, and charging stations.
• Business Partnership Programs Programs including procurement opportunities for vendors, real estate and development partnerships, advertising and concessions opportunities, ground transportation provider registration, and CALEA-accredited police careers.
• Airport Hotels Shuttle Service Four on-airport hotels with shuttle service: Fairfield Inn & Suites Columbus Airport, Residence Inn by Marriott Columbus Airport, Hampton Inn Columbus Airport, and Hilton Garden Inn Columbus Airport.

Quantifiable outcome

• 53 nonstop destinations available from CMH and LCK
• +1 more outcomes

Named customers10 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles4 records

Technology focussed No

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration4 records

Feature1 record

Partnerships

15 partnerships are on record, tiered core and minor.

• American AirlinescoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorMajor airline operating from Concourse B at CMH with daily flights to hub cities including Dallas, Philadelphia, Charlotte, and Washington.
• Delta Air LinescoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorMajor airline operating from Concourse C at CMH with extensive route network including Atlanta hub.
• United AirlinescoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorCommercial airline operating from Concourse B at CMH with connections to Chicago, Denver, Houston, and other major hubs.
• Southwest AirlinescoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPrimary airline operating from Concourse A at CMH with extensive domestic network including Chicago-Midway, Dallas, Baltimore, Denver, and Las Vegas routes.
• Allegiant AircoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOperating exclusively from Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) passenger terminal.
• Alamo Rent A CarcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOn-site rental car partner at CMH rental car center with shuttle service from terminal.
• Enterprise Rent-A-CarcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOn-site rental car partner at both CMH and LCK facilities with 614.859.4049 reservation line for LCK.
• HertzcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorOn-site rental car partner at CMH rental car center with shuttle service from terminal.
• UbercoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRideshare partner available at CMH arrivals level (level 1) with pickup at ground transportation area.
• LyftcoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRideshare partner available at CMH arrivals level (level 1) with pickup at ground transportation area.
• Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorRegional public transit provider offering connections to greater Columbus and Central Ohio from CMH.
• Foreign-Trade Zone 138 (FTZ 138)coreStrategic or Co-development PartnerFTZ 138 operated by CRAA provides businesses with customs benefits and trade facilitation services.
• Ohio Art LeagueminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerCollaboration with Ohio Art League for Gateway to the Arts program featuring rotating local artist works every two months.
• Greater Columbus Arts CouncilminorStrategic or Co-development PartnerPartnership for live music program Melodies in Motion featuring local musicians throughout the year.
• CMH Next Development PartnerscoreStrategic or Co-development Partner$2 billion terminal transformation project with new 1-million-square-foot facility featuring 36 gates, scheduled to open early 2029.

Scale indicators10 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW): Large-scale incumbent hub in the same Great Lakes/Midwest corridor; serves as the dominant O&D attractor in the region and provides competitive context on fare levels and route retention.
• Chicago O'Hare International Airport: Major U.S. hub with an ongoing multi-billion-dollar terminal redevelopment (ORD Terminal Global Terminal) — useful precedent for the cost and operational disruption profile of CMH Next.
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: Largest U.S. hub operated by an airport authority; provides benchmark on landing-fee economics, concession structures, and capital-program execution at scale relevant to CMH Next's design choices.

Direct peers

• Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG): Mid-sized regional airport authority operating a combined passenger and cargo hub (DHL Express super-hub) in the Ohio Valley, the most directly comparable multi-modal peer to CRAA's CMH + LCK structure.
• Pittsburgh International Airport: Recently completed a $1.57B terminal modernization (opened 2025) for a similarly sized Midwest market, offering a close peer benchmark on the cost, schedule, and post-opening ramp of a major terminal transformation.
• Memphis International Airport: Operated by the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority and anchored by the FedEx Superhub, it is the leading cargo-focused U.S. airport peer for benchmarking LCK's cargo and intermodal economics.
• Indianapolis Airport Authority: Operates Indianapolis International Airport (IND), a comparable Midwest hub with similar passenger volumes, FedEx cargo presence, and ongoing capital programs — a strong apples-to-apples operational peer.
• Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF): UPS Worldport hub and mid-sized passenger facility — directly comparable to Rickenbacker as a cargo-anchored regional airport pursuing parallel cargo and limited passenger growth.
• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport: Ohio-based regional hub operated by a city/regional authority, sharing the same state and overlapping O&D market as CMH; competes for passenger leakage and corporate travel.

Others

• Allegheny County Airport Authority: Multi-airport authority governance peer; while Pittsburgh is the primary asset, the governance structure of operating multiple airports under one authority offers a structural comparison for CRAA's three-airport model.

Market position

Strengths4 records

Weaknesses4 records

Competitive moat5 records

Key risks5 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• Xx.com/columbusairport
• Facebookfacebook.com/columbusairportcmh
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/john-glenn-columbus-international-airport
• Instagraminstagram.com/columbusairport
• TikToktiktok.com/@columbusairport

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles3 records

Subsidiaries4 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about John Glenn Columbus International Airport