As we close the chapter on 2024, we look back on an extraordinary year for Columbus airports. With over 9 million passengers traveling through John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) and Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK), this has been our busiest year ever! We’re filled with gratitude for the milestones we’ve reached and the progress we’ve made. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights that made this year unforgettable:
Air service expansion
This year, we continued connecting Columbus to the world with the launch of nonstop flights to exciting destinations like Salt Lake City, Kansas City, and San Diego. And starting in March 2025, travelers can enjoy nonstop service to Los Angeles through American Airlines. Our growing network makes it easier than ever to take off to your next adventure.
A front-row seat to the Solar Eclipse
In April, we had the best vantage point for one of nature’s most breathtaking events—the solar eclipse. Watching the skies dim over CMH was an unforgettable experience for travelers and staff alike.
BrewDog lands at CMH
Travelers can now savor the local flavor of BrewDog right in Concourse B, with BrewDog’s first airport location. This addition brings a taste of Columbus to the terminal, offering travelers a chance to unwind before takeoff.
Innovating with mobile IDs
We embraced technology to make travel easier and faster by introducing mobile IDs at TSA checkpoints. This tech-forward solution helps streamline the security process, getting you to your gate with less hassle.
The return of the Columbus Air Show
We welcomed the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds for a weekend of aviation excitement that brought thousands of visitors to Columbus. The Columbus Air Show was a celebration of aviation that left us all inspired. And the Thunderbirds named Columbus the “Civilian Show Site of the Year”!
Honoring history with the Tuskegee Airmen mural
This summer, just in time for the Columbus Air Show, we proudly unveiled a mural honoring the Tuskegee Airmen at Rickenbacker International Airport. Painted by local artist Adam Hernandez, the mural celebrates the legacy of these trailblazing aviators who broke barriers in aviation and civil rights.
The 2024 Runway 5K
Our annual Runway 5K brought the community together for fitness and philanthropy, raising over $80,000 for Honor Flight Columbus. These funds support Veterans’ trips to Washington, D.C. to see the memorials built in their honor. We’re proud to be part of this mission.
Taxiway C relocation
This year, we completed the relocation of Taxiway C, a significant step forward for the CMH Next project. This achievement helped pave the way for the future—literally—by preparing our airfield for the new terminal.
Breaking ground on our new terminal
The most exciting milestone of 2024? Officially breaking ground on our new terminal! This state-of-the-art facility will elevate the travel experience for passengers, serving as a gateway that reflects the vibrancy of Columbus and our community.
Looking ahead to 2025
Our travelers, staff, and community partners all helped make this record-breaking year possible. Together, we’ve built momentum for an exciting future. With new air service, ongoing construction progress, and more milestones on the horizon, we can’t wait to see what 2025 will bring.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to soaring to even greater heights together!
