Travelers and local residents can expect normal flight operations at Columbus Airport in 2025, even as the airport launches a massive new terminal project. Despite some rumors, there is no $20 million runway conversion or planned pause in flights. The airport’s leadership has confirmed that all runways will remain open and flight schedules will continue as usual while the new terminal is built.
Columbus Airport’s Terminal Project: What’s Happening Now
The Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA) is moving forward with a $2 billion terminal project at John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH). This project, set to break ground in early 2025, will completely replace the aging terminal that has served the city since 1958. The new terminal is expected to open in early 2029, offering more gates, better amenities, and a modern travel experience for the growing Columbus region.
Key Facts About the Terminal Project:
– Cost: $2 billion, funded by airport revenue bonds, federal grants, airline tenant fees, and parking revenues.
– Timeline: Construction starts in 2025 and finishes in 2029.
– Features: 36 gates (up from 29), centralized security, expanded amenities, and sustainability features.
– Design and Construction: Gensler and Moody Nolan are leading the design, with Pencell Phelps and Elford managing construction.
No Runway Conversion or Flight Pauses
Contrary to some reports, there is no $20 million runway conversion at Columbus Airport. The airport’s runways are not being replaced, converted, or closed for construction. The last major runway project happened in 2013, when the south runway was moved to allow for more arrivals and departures at the same time. That project is complete and unrelated to the current terminal work.
The airport has made it clear that the current runways are in good shape and can handle both current and future passenger growth. There are no plans for new runways or major changes to the existing ones as part of the terminal project. Flight operations will continue as normal throughout the construction period.
How Will Construction Affect Travelers?
While the terminal project is a big undertaking, the airport has planned carefully to avoid major disruptions for travelers. Here’s what passengers can expect during the construction years:
- No Flight Suspensions: All flights will continue as scheduled. Any changes will be shared through the airport’s official channels.
- Access Changes: Some access roads may be rerouted or temporarily disrupted, but parking and terminal access will remain open. The current parking garage stays open, and a new 5,000-space garage is being built.
- Terminal Experience: The new terminal will offer more space, better amenities, and a smoother travel experience. The old terminal will be demolished after the new one opens in 2029.
Taxiway Projects: Keeping Planes Moving
To make room for the new terminal, the airport is relocating Taxiway C. This work started in 2023 and will continue through 2024. The project is being managed in phases to keep at least one high-speed exit and entrance taxiway open at all times. This careful planning means planes can keep moving on the ground without major delays or disruptions.
What About the Runways?
The runways at Columbus Airport are not part of the current construction plans. The airport has stated clearly that the runways are in good condition and can handle the expected increase in flights as Columbus grows. There is no $20 million runway conversion project, and no flights will be paused for runway work.
The last time the airport did major work on its runways was in 2013, when the south runway was moved to allow for more simultaneous arrivals and departures. That project is finished, and there are no similar projects planned for the near future.
Who Is Involved in the Terminal Project?
Several key groups are working together to make the new terminal a reality:
- Columbus Regional Airport Authority (CRAA): Oversees the project and is committed to keeping flights running smoothly.
- Design Teams: Gensler and Moody Nolan are leading the design of the new terminal.
- Construction Teams: Pencell Phelps and Elford are managing the building process.
- Funding Partners: The project is funded by a mix of airport revenue bonds ($1.2 billion), federal grants, airline tenant fees, and parking revenues.
Why Is the Terminal Project Needed?
The current terminal at Columbus Airport opened in 1958. It has served the city well for decades, but it is now at the end of its useful life. Columbus is the fastest-growing city in the Midwest, and the airport needs to expand to keep up with the rising number of travelers.
The new terminal is designed to handle more passengers, offer better amenities, and provide a modern, efficient travel experience. It will also help the airport meet the needs of the Columbus region through 2050 and beyond.
Community Benefits and Job Creation
The terminal project is expected to bring many benefits to the Columbus community:
- Job Creation: The construction will create jobs for local workers and support local businesses.
- Economic Growth: A modern airport helps attract new businesses and visitors to the region.
- Better Travel Experience: Passengers will enjoy more gates, better amenities, and a smoother journey through the airport.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, airport officials and independent analysts agree that the construction is being carefully managed to avoid major disruptions. The project is expected to support the local workforce and provide a boost to the region’s economy.
What Should Travelers Do?
If you are planning to fly through Columbus Airport during the construction period, here are some tips:
- Check for Updates: Stay informed by visiting the airport’s official website or following their social media channels for the latest news on construction and access changes.
- Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time to get to the airport, especially if access roads are being rerouted.
- Follow Signs: Pay attention to signs and directions at the airport to find parking and the terminal entrance.
- Use Official Resources: For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the CMH Next Official Website or FlyColumbus.com.
Background: Columbus Airport’s Growth and History
Columbus Airport has a long history of serving the city and the region. The current terminal, which opened in 1958, has seen millions of travelers pass through its doors. In recent years, the airport has handled over 8 million passengers annually, making it a key part of the city’s transportation network.
Columbus itself is growing quickly, with more people moving to the city every year. The airport’s expansion is designed to keep up with this growth and make sure the region stays connected to the rest of the country and the world.
Looking Ahead: What Happens After 2029?
Once the new terminal is complete in 2029, the old terminal will be demolished. The space will be repurposed for additional aircraft parking, helping the airport handle even more flights in the future. The new terminal and supporting infrastructure are expected to serve the Columbus region for decades to come.
Expert and Community Perspectives
Airport officials have stressed that the terminal project is being managed with the community in mind. They are working to minimize disruptions and keep flights running smoothly. Local leaders and business groups have welcomed the project, saying it will help Columbus stay competitive and support economic growth.
Independent analysts have also reviewed the plans and agree that the airport’s approach is sound. By phasing construction and keeping key taxiways open, the airport can keep planes moving and avoid major delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my flight be canceled or delayed because of the construction?
No. The airport has planned the construction to avoid canceling or delaying flights. Any changes will be shared through official channels.
Is there a $20 million runway conversion happening at Columbus Airport?
No. There is no $20 million runway conversion project. The runways are not being replaced or converted, and there are no plans to pause flights for runway work.
Will parking be affected during construction?
The current parking garage will remain open, and a new 5,000-space garage is being built. Some access roads may be rerouted, but parking and terminal access will be maintained.
How will the new terminal improve my travel experience?
The new terminal will have more gates, better amenities, centralized security, and sustainability features. It will be larger and more modern, making travel easier and more comfortable.
Where can I find the latest updates on the terminal project?
Visit the CMH Next Official Website or FlyColumbus.com for regular updates.
Official Contacts and Resources
If you have questions or need more information, you can contact the Columbus Regional Airport Authority at:
- Address: 4600 International Gateway, Columbus, OH 43219
- Phone: (614) 239-4000
You can also find official information about airport operations and construction updates on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) website.
Summary and Takeaways
- No $20 million runway conversion or pause in flights at Columbus Airport in 2025.
- The airport is building a new terminal, but runways remain fully operational.
- Construction is carefully managed to avoid major disruptions for travelers.
- The project will create jobs, support local businesses, and provide a modern travel experience.
- Passengers should check official sources for updates and allow extra time during construction.
The Columbus Airport terminal project is a major investment in the city’s future. By keeping runways open and flights on schedule, the airport is making sure that travelers and the community can keep moving forward, even during construction. For the latest information, always rely on official airport sources and government websites.
Learn Today
Terminal Project → A major construction effort to build a new passenger terminal with updated facilities and expanded capacity.
Runway Conversion → Modification or replacement of airport runways, often involving closures or restrictions during construction.
Taxiway → A path for aircraft to move between runways and terminals on an airport’s grounds.
Airport Revenue Bonds → Financial instruments issued by airports to fund projects, repaid through airport revenues and fees.
Centralized Security → A unified checkpoint system designed to streamline passenger screening and improve airport efficiency.
This Article in a Nutshell
Columbus Airport will rebuild its terminal from 2025 to 2029 with no flight or runway interruptions, ensuring smooth travel. The $2 billion project enhances gates and amenities, supporting city growth and local jobs. Carefully phased taxiway relocation keeps planes moving efficiently throughout construction.
— By VisaVerge.com
