One milestone at a time: CMH Next’s new terminal project update

Aerial view of construction on the new terminal at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, showing the terminal structure, elevated roadway, cranes, construction equipment, and surrounding runways.

A new chapter is taking shape at John Glenn Columbus International Airport

As construction on our future terminal moves forward, each milestone brings fresh energy and excitement—not just for travelers, but for everyone who calls Central Ohio home. From the first steel beams to the soaring skylight, progress is visible, and momentum is building. Today, we’re sharing a glimpse of what’s happening behind the scenes and what you can expect as the vision comes to life.

Aerial view of CMH Next construction at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, showing the elevated roadway, new terminal and parking structures, construction cranes, equipment, and surrounding airport grounds.
Aerial view of CMH Next construction at John Glenn Columbus International Airport, showing the elevated roadway, new terminal and parking structures, construction cranes, equipment, and surrounding airport grounds.

Roadways: The first step forward

Both the arrivals and departures roadways in front of the new terminal are now fully finished—marking a major milestone in the project. Drivers will soon be using the lower arrivals roadway, making it the very first piece of the new terminal construction to be put into service. This future expanded curb space nearly doubles what travelers have today, offering plenty of room to unload, greet family and friends, and maneuver luggage with ease. The elevated departures roadway is being prepared for future use, promising a smoother flow for drop-offs as the terminal opens.

pic 4

From the airfield: 36 gates ready for more adventures

Imagine boarding bridges connecting directly from the terminal to aircraft headed for your next trip. The new terminal will feature 36 efficient gates, including two international-capable gates with onsite customs facilities, so the experience feels modern, intuitive, and future-ready.

Walls of glass + city views

Close-up view of the CMH Next construction site, showing newly installed glass exterior panels on part of the new terminal, with exposed steel framing and ongoing construction visible around the building.

Work is underway to enclose the building. The design features sweeping walls of glass that showcase views of the airfield and Columbus’s skyline, letting natural light and the excitement of flight fill the space.

The signature skylight + dynamic = wow

Larger than two basketball courts, the terminal’s signature skylight will anchor Central Market – a vibrant hub of shops, restaurants, and gathering spaces—while dynamic glass technology automatically reduces glare and solar heat gain to keep the environment bright and comfortable. Framing work for the glass is underway.

Interior view of the new CMH terminal under construction, looking up at the sweeping steel roof structure and large open window framing with blue sky visible overhead.
Aerial view of curved steel framing pieces laid out across the CMH Next construction site, ready for installation as part of the new terminal.

We're building a brighter, easier CMH — one milestone at a time

While crews keep making headway on the new terminal, we’ll keep serving you every day with the welcoming spirit you expect from Columbus. Keep an eye out for more progress pics and updates on CMHNext.com and find your next travel destination – perhaps it is one of our 55+ nonstops – at FlyColumbus.com. Your next great trip is right around the corner, and we can’t wait to send you on your way.

What's happening at CMH

Stay in touch

Subscribe Form