It’s official: Columbus is taking to the skies in record numbers this Thanksgiving season! Whether you’re jetting off to visit family, chasing warmer weather, or just taking advantage of those travel deals, John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH) and Rickenbacker International Airport are expecting their busiest holiday travel period yet.
Officials with the Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA) estimate over 222,000 passengers will fly out of Columbus between November 20 and December 3, marking a 3.5% increase from last year. The surge continues a record-breaking trend, with passenger numbers topping charts for eight of the last nine months.
Pro Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Travel
The holiday rush doesn’t have to mean holiday stress. CRAA has shared some tips to make your airport experience as smooth as a perfectly baked pie:
Pack Smarter, Not Harder: Wondering if Aunt Judy’s cranberry sauce can come with you? Check TSA.gov for the 3-1-1 liquid rule and other packing guidelines. (Spoiler: Pies are allowed!)
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Plan Your Parking: From budget-friendly lots to valet parking with electric vehicle chargers, CMH has options for everyone. Bonus: You can even get your car detailed or oil changed while you’re away.
Arrive Early: For domestic flights, aim to get to the airport 90 minutes before departure; for international, allow two hours. If you’re a TSA PreCheck or CLEAR member, you’ll breeze through security and have time to enjoy a pre-flight snack or some shopping.
Pick-Up Pro Move: Avoid curbside chaos by using the Cell Phone Lot when picking up loved ones. It’s free, and you won’t have to do endless laps around the terminal.
Accessibility Programs to Love
CRAA is all about making travel enjoyable for everyone. Here are just a few of the amenities designed to help passengers navigate their journey:
- Universal Changing Tables and Nursing Rooms for families.
- Aira Visual Assistance and Journey Care Kits for those who need extra help.
- Pet Therapy Dogs to ease travel jitters. (Yes, they’re as adorable as they sound.)
For a full list of accessibility programs, visit flycolumbus.com/passengers/accessibility.
Busiest Travel Days
Not sure when to fly? Keep these peak days in mind:
If you’re traveling on these dates, arriving early and staying prepared will be more important than ever.
Why Columbus Airports Shine
With more than 50 nonstop destinations and exciting plans for a new terminal at John Glenn International, Columbus airports are making holiday travel better every year.
“We’re thrilled that so many passengers choose Columbus airports to be the start of their holiday celebrations,” said Joseph R. Nardone, President & CEO of CRAA. “We intend to continue providing the best possible experience for all our travelers.”
So pack your bags, bring your holiday spirit, and get ready to take flight! Columbus is ready to make your Thanksgiving travel smooth, exciting, and maybe even a little fun.
