Practical advice for navigating John Glenn Columbus International Airport during construction from someone who visits CMH almost every day.
If you’re flying through John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), you’ve probably noticed things look a little different. The airport is undergoing one of the largest construction projects in its history, and while the new terminal will be a tremendous improvement for Central Ohio, travelers should expect temporary changes to traffic, parking, and airport access.
As the owner of Smart Ride Central Ohio, I make multiple trips to CMH nearly every day, transporting travelers to and from the airport. Because I experience these conditions firsthand, I often get asked the same question:
“What’s the best way to navigate CMH while construction is underway?”
Here are a few practical tips that can save you time and reduce stress.
Give Yourself More Time Than You Think You’ll Need
Construction has made traffic around John Glenn Columbus International Airport less predictable than in years past.
Consider allowing an additional 15–30 minutes if you’re:
Parking at the airport
Traveling during morning rush hour
Flying before 7:00 a.m.
Traveling on Fridays or Sundays
Flying around holidays or major Ohio State events
A little extra time can make the difference between a relaxed start to your trip and a stressful rush through the terminal.
Check Airport Parking Before You Leave Home
If you’re driving yourself, don’t assume your preferred parking lot is open or has available spaces.
Parking availability can change throughout the day, especially during busy travel periods.
Before leaving home:
Check current CMH parking availability.
Verify which parking lots are open.
Plan extra time for shuttle transportation if needed.
Many travelers are surprised by how quickly some lots fill during peak travel days.
Watch Carefully for New Traffic Patterns
Road construction has changed portions of the roadway leading into the airport.
Even frequent travelers may notice:
Temporary lane shifts
New entrance patterns
Construction barriers
Updated pickup and drop-off locations
Additional traffic congestion near the terminal
Pay attention to overhead signs instead of relying on memory from previous trips.
Picking Up Friends or Family at CMH?
One of the most common mistakes I see is arriving too early.
Instead:
Track the incoming flight.
Wait until passengers have collected their luggage before heading to the terminal.
Expect traffic to move more slowly than it did before construction began.
This helps avoid unnecessary loops around the airport and reduces congestion for everyone.
Families Have a Few Extra Challenges
If you’re traveling with:
Young children
Car seats
Strollers
Elderly parents
Multiple suitcases
construction can add another layer of complexity.
Extra walking, shuttle buses, and changing traffic patterns can make airport parking more stressful than many travelers expect.
Consider Whether Airport Parking Is Still Your Best Option
Airport parking remains a good choice for many travelers, especially shorter trips.
However, for longer vacations or early-morning departures, many Central Ohio families are finding that private airport transportation is surprisingly competitive once parking fees, fuel, and the convenience factor are considered.
Being dropped off directly at your airline’s entrance means:
No searching for parking.
No waiting for parking shuttles.
No hauling luggage across lots.
No walking in bad weather.
No wondering where you parked after a week away.
After a long flight home, many travelers also appreciate stepping directly into a waiting vehicle instead of making one last walk through a parking garage.
My Perspective
Because I drive to and from John Glenn Columbus International Airport almost every day, I see changing traffic conditions as they happen. I monitor flight arrivals, know which areas tend to back up, and adjust pickup times accordingly.
Whether you choose to drive yourself, have a family member take you, or book private transportation, my advice is the same: plan ahead, allow extra time, and expect construction-related delays. A few extra minutes of preparation can make your travel day much more enjoyable.
Safe Travels from Smart Ride Central Ohio
The construction at CMH is an investment in the future of our region, and when it’s complete, travelers will benefit from a larger, more modern airport.
Until then, a little planning goes a long way.
If you’re looking for dependable airport transportation in Columbus, Ohio, Smart Ride Central Ohio provides private, owner-driven transportation to and from John Glenn Columbus International Airport throughout the Columbus metropolitan area, including Powell, Dublin, Worthington, Westerville, Lewis Center, Delaware, New Albany, Hilliard, Plain City, Upper Arlington, Grandview Heights, and surrounding communities.
Whether you ride with me or not, I hope these tips help make your next trip through CMH a little easier.
Have a safe flight!