Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is a unique transport hub with a geographical "secret": to get to the state of Ohio, your plane lands on the banks of Kentucky. Forget the stereotypes of overcrowded and chaotic hubs; CVG is regularly recognised as one of the best regional airports in North America thanks to surprisingly fast service and well-thought-out logistics. It is not just a transit point, but a modern gateway to the Midwest region, where Southern hospitality meets the industrial power of Cincinnati.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

• Speed and Comfort: CVG is known for its minimal queues at security checkpoints. Thanks to modern security technologies and smart flow management, passengers spend significantly less time on formalities here than at other major US airports.
• A Taste of Kentucky: Since the airport is located in bourbon country, you can find unique establishments here, such as Cork 'n Bottle, where travellers are offered tastings and the opportunity to purchase rare varieties of local whiskey.
• Art and Culture: In the terminals, you can encounter exhibitions from the Cincinnati Museum Center, including replicas of dinosaur skeletons and historical artefacts, making the wait for a flight educational and interesting.
• Transport Accessibility: The airport is connected to the city centre by the convenient Airporter (TANK) bus route, which quickly delivers tourists across the Ohio River directly to downtown. Also located here is one of the most modern car rental centres, connected to the terminal by a covered walkway.
• Cargo Giant: An interesting fact for aviation enthusiasts — CVG is a major hub for Amazon Air and DHL, so from the terminal windows, you can often observe impressive cargo aircraft movement on the apron.

For your convenience, we have collected the main contact information for Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG).

• Official Website: www.cvgairport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (859) 767-3151
• Airport Address: 3087 Terminal Dr, Hebron, KY 41048, USA
• Email: The primary method of contact is via the contact form on the airport's official website.
• Social Media: You can follow airport news and updates on the official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost an item within the terminal building, you need to fill out a special form in the "Lost and Found" section on the airport website. For luggage lost on board an aircraft, you should contact the airline directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For enquiries and assistance, you can use the information desk phone or the feedback form on the website.

There are several ways to get to Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), which serves the city of Cincinnati and its surrounding areas. It is important to remember that the airport itself is located in the state of Kentucky, on the opposite bank of the Ohio River from the city centre. The trip from the centre of Cincinnati usually takes about 20–30 minutes, but time may vary depending on traffic.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. The dedicated bus route TANK Airporter (2X) directly connects the airport with the city centre and the city of Covington in Kentucky. Buses run regularly, and the cost of the trip is significantly lower than a taxi. This is an excellent choice for solo travellers and those looking to save money.

Taxis and Rideshare Services, such as Uber and Lyft, offer a more comfortable and faster way to get to the airport. A trip from the city centre will cost approximately 30-40 dollars. This option is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a small group. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which guarantees a car at the time you need.

Car Rental provides maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore not only Cincinnati but also other corners of the USA. If you already have a rental car, you can easily return it at the airport before departure — all major rental companies are represented here. The road to the airport is simple; the main route runs along the interstate highway I-275.

For those arriving at the airport in a private vehicle, several parking options are provided. There is short-term parking located in immediate proximity to the terminals (Terminal Garage), as well as more affordable long-term and economy lots (ValuPark and Economy Lot), from which free shuttles run to the terminal. Choose your parking depending on the duration of your trip.

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG) is distinguished by a modern and passenger-friendly structure. Instead of several scattered buildings, there is one Main Terminal here that serves all flights. From this terminal, two separate satellite concourses with boarding gates branch off — Concourse A and Concourse B. Such an organisation of space significantly simplifies navigation and reduces time spent moving through the airport.

The airport layout is logical and intuitive. All main services are located in the Main Terminal: check-in counters and baggage drop-off (departure zone) are on the upper level, while the baggage claim area (arrival zone) is on the lower level. After passing through the centralised security checkpoint in the Main Terminal, passengers descend to the underground level to reach their boarding gates.

To move between the Main Terminal and Concourses A and B, a fast and convenient underground shuttle train (tram) is provided. Additionally, an underground pedestrian tunnel with moving walkways leads to both concourses, which is a good alternative for those who are not in a rush. Concourse B typically serves flights for Delta Air Lines and its partners, while Concourse A is used by other carriers, including Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines. Both concourses are equipped with shops, cafes, and rest zones.

Check-in and screening procedures at CVG usually proceed quite quickly compared to many other major US airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure to complete all formalities without haste. For navigation, simply follow the signs. The most important thing is to determine immediately after passing security which concourse (A or B) you need, and head to the corresponding train station or pedestrian tunnel entrance.

The history of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) is a fascinating tale of transformation and adaptation. Construction of the airfield began in 1942 for the needs of the US Army Air Forces during World War II. After the war, the facility was transferred to civilian use, and the first commercial flight took place on 10 January 1947. A curious fact: despite the airport serving Cincinnati (Ohio), it is physically located in Boone County, Kentucky. Its IATA code, CVG, comes from the name of the nearest major city at the time of its founding — Covington, Kentucky.

In the post-war decades, the airport developed actively. In 1974, Terminal 2 was opened to cope with the growing passenger traffic of the "Jet Age". The true heyday of CVG came in the 1980s and 1990s when Delta Air Lines made it one of its key hubs. The culmination of this period was the opening of the modern Terminal 3 in 1994, which at its peak served millions of passengers making connections to flights around the world.

Following the reduction of Delta's operations in the 2000s, CVG airport not only survived but found a new point of growth, becoming one of the largest cargo hubs in North America. A key role in this was played by DHL Express, which located its global superhub here. In the airport's recent history, a landmark event was the opening in 2021 of a massive hub for Amazon Air, which definitively secured CVG's status as a giant in the air cargo sector. This transformation from a predominantly passenger node to a global logistics centre is a unique feature of its history.

Today, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport successfully combines passenger flight services, offering flights by both budget and legacy airlines, with record volumes of cargo operations. It regularly receives awards for service quality and efficiency, demonstrating an example of successful diversification and strategic planning in the aviation industry.

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport (CVG) offers a wide range of services to make your stay as comfortable and productive as possible. In the airport terminals, you will find numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars to suit any taste — from fast food outlets to establishments with full menus where you can relax while waiting for your flight. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops offering souvenirs, press, travel goods, and, of course, a Duty-Free zone with perfumes, beverages, and sweets.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing passengers to stay connected or work. For charging electronic devices, numerous power outlets and USB ports are provided in the waiting areas near the boarding gates. If you are looking for greater comfort, business lounges and VIP lounges are at your service, where you can rest in quiet surroundings, enjoy snacks and drinks, and utilise additional amenities.

ATMs and currency exchange points are installed in the airport to handle financial matters. In case of need, passengers can seek medical assistance — CVG has first aid stations. Pharmacies are also operating on the premises where necessary medications can be purchased.

The airport has also taken care of passengers with special needs. For travellers with children, mother and child rooms and play areas are equipped to help pass the time before departure. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, including escort and wheelchairs, and the airport infrastructure is adapted for their convenient movement.

For those who need to stay overnight near the airport, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity, with free shuttles often running to them. Business travellers can use the services of business centres and rent conference rooms for meetings and negotiations without leaving the airport territory.

At Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), passengers are offered a wide selection of establishments for every taste and budget. Whether you are looking for a quick snack before departure or a full lunch, you will easily find a suitable option in the zones of both concourses, primarily after passing security control (airside).

Restaurants for Full Lunch and Dinner

For those with time to spare, the airport has several restaurants with à la carte service. One notable place is the recently opened Bengals Bar & Kitchen — the first restaurant created under the brand of the famous American football team. Also popular is the gastropub Tap & Pour, offering dishes inspired by local cuisine and craft beverages. In Concourse B, you can find other establishments such as Blaze Pizza, where pizza is made to order, and the pop-up Italian restaurant Regina's Italian Kitchen. Most full-service restaurants are concentrated in Concourse B, which serves a larger number of flights.

Fast Food and Cafes

If time is limited, numerous fast-food outlets are at your service. You can try the famous Cincinnati-style chili at Gold Star Chili — this is one of the iconic local dishes that is definitely worth tasting. Also represented at the airport are well-known chains such as Chick-fil-A with their chicken sandwiches, Panda Express, and Starbucks coffee shops located in both concourses. These establishments are ideal for a quick and satisfying meal before boarding a flight.

Signature Dishes and Dietary Options

The main gastronomic highlight of Cincinnati available right at the airport is the local chili — a spiced meat sauce served with cheese over spaghetti or hot dogs. Regarding dietary needs, many establishments offer vegetarian and gluten-free options. For example, the Escape Lounges have a special menu indicating allergens for each dish, which is convenient for passengers with specific dietary requirements. To check for the availability of vegan or Halal dishes, it is recommended to contact restaurant staff directly.

Prices and Opening Hours

The price range at CVG airport varies from budget options at fast-food points to medium and above-average in full-service restaurants. On average, the cost of a main course in a restaurant is $15–$30, while a snack in a cafe will cost $10–$15. Opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule; most are open from early morning until late evening. However, it is worth noting that exact operating times may change, so it is better to check current information on the official airport website or directly on-site.

To ensure your journey through Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport goes smoothly, there are a few points to consider. When planning a departure from Cincinnati, especially if you are flying on an international flight, arrive at the airport well in advance. The standard recommendation is 2 hours before departure within the USA and 3 hours for an international flight. This will give you enough time for check-in, baggage drop, and passing security control without unnecessary haste.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines open 24 hours before departure. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop or, if you are travelling light, to the security checkpoint. At security control, be ready to present your boarding pass and identification. All electronics larger than a mobile phone and liquids must be removed from your carry-on luggage. Remember the rule for carrying liquids: containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml packed in a transparent bag are allowed.

Choosing a seat on the plane can significantly affect flight comfort. Window seats offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. If you want to leave the plane among the first, choose seats in the front part of the cabin. It is considered that turbulence is felt least over the wing.

Passengers with a connection (transit) at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky Airport are advised to study the terminal map in advance. Ensure you have enough time between flights — for domestic connections, 60-90 minutes is usually sufficient, while international connections may require more due to the need to pass customs and passport control. Upon arriving in Cincinnati from another country, you will first have to pass passport control, then collect your luggage and pass through customs with it, even if you have a connecting flight.

In the event of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative to get information about the new departure time and your rights. Depending on the reason and duration of the delay, you may be provided with vouchers for meals or even hotel accommodation. Do not hesitate to clarify this information. While you wait, you can explore the airport's shops and restaurants.

To save money, consider taking an empty reusable water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security control. You can also take non-liquid snacks with you. Airport parking is often cheaper to book online in advance. Research transfer options from the airport to the city — sometimes shuttles or rideshare services can be cheaper than a traditional taxi.