Cleveland Hopkins International Airport

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport is not just a transport hub, but a true aviation legend, serving as the main aerial gateway to the Great Lakes. It was here in Cleveland that the world's first air traffic control tower was built and the runway lighting system was launched, forever changing the history of flight. Today, travellers are welcomed by a modern terminal imbued with the spirit of rock and roll, as the city is considered the world capital of this musical genre. Convenient navigation and rapid connections to the city centre make arriving here a most comfortable start to a trip around the state of Ohio.

Airport Features and Highlights

Cleveland Airport is known for its unique combination of historical heritage and modern comfort. One of its main "highlights" is its direct link to the city's transport system.

• High-speed train to the city: Cleveland Hopkins became the first airport in the Western Hemisphere to be connected to a city by a metro line. Red Line trains (RTA Red Line) depart directly from the lower level of the terminal, allowing you to reach the centre in just half an hour and at minimal cost.
• Musical atmosphere: Since Cleveland is the home of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, you can find thematic exhibitions, guitar installations, and posters featuring legendary performers within the terminals, creating a special mood immediately upon arrival.
• Compactness and convenience: Despite its international status, the airport retains a clear and convenient layout with one main terminal and several concourses, allowing passengers to quickly pass through controls and find their boarding gates.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE). If you have any questions, you can contact airport representatives in one of the following ways:

• Official Website: You will always find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official website: www.clevelandairport.com.
• Information Service Phone: For immediate information and enquiries, you can call: +1 216-265-6030.
• Airport Address: 5300 Riverside Dr, Cleveland, OH 44135, USA.
• Email: A direct email address for general questions is not published. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official airport website for communication.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost on board the aircraft, please contact your airline first. For items left in the airport terminal (excluding TSA security checkpoints), please contact the Lost and Found service managed by the airport police.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general passenger support, it is recommended to use the information service phone number or the feedback form on the website.

Getting to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) from the centre of Cleveland or its suburbs is quite simple thanks to well-developed transport infrastructure. Travellers can choose the option that best suits their budget, amount of luggage, and personal comfort preferences.

Public Transport: RTA Red Line Train
One of the main features of the airport is the direct railway line connecting it to the city centre. RTA Red Line trains depart directly from the airport terminal and travel to Tower City Center station in the very heart of Cleveland. This is undoubtedly the most economical and fastest way to avoid traffic jams. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and the ticket cost is just a few dollars. This option is ideal for tourists travelling light.

Taxis, Shuttles, and Ridesharing
For those who value comfort and are travelling with a large number of suitcases, taxis or services like Uber and Lyft are an excellent choice. A car journey from the city centre to the airport will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The cost will be significantly higher than the train, but it is a convenient "door-to-door" method. Pre-booked shuttle services are also available, which can be advantageous for groups.

By Car and Parking
If you plan to travel by your own or a rented car, major highways such as I-71 and I-480 lead to the airport. Cleveland Hopkins Airport provides several parking options. For short visits, there is hourly parking directly at the terminal. For longer trips, there are more affordable long-term and economy car parks, from which free shuttle buses run to the terminals. It is recommended to allow extra time for parking and the journey from there to the airport building.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is distinguished by a structure that is thoughtful and convenient for passengers. In fact, it is one main terminal from which three active passenger concourses (halls) extend: A, B, and C. This layout significantly simplifies navigation and movement around the airport.

All pre-flight procedures—check-in and baggage drop—take place in the main terminal building on the upper level. The arrivals and baggage claim area is located on the lower level. After passing through security control, which is located in the central part of the terminal, passengers gain access to all boarding gates. All concourses are connected to each other in the "secure" area, allowing free movement between them on foot without the need for re-screening.

Concourse Features:

• Concourse A — serves flights for Frontier and Spirit airlines. It is located in the northern part of the terminal.
• Concourse B — used by Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines. Here you will find a good selection of cafés and shops.
• Concourse C — the largest of all, serving as the main hub for United Airlines, and also handling flights for American Airlines, JetBlue, and Air Canada. It offers the greatest variety of restaurants and services.

To comfortably complete all formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. Thanks to the logical layout, orienting yourself in Cleveland Airport is not difficult: simply follow the signs to your concourse and boarding gate after passing through security. The central atrium between Concourses B and C serves as the main landmark and the place where the majority of shops and dining establishments are concentrated.

The history of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is a chronicle of innovation and key events in the development of global civil aviation. Founded in 1925, it became the first municipal airport in the USA and almost immediately set high standards for the industry. The initiator of its creation was the then City Manager William R. Hopkins, in whose honour the airport received its name.

From the very beginning, the airport in Cleveland became a platform for implementing advanced technologies. It was here in 1930 that the world's first air traffic control tower was installed, equipped with radio communication to coordinate flights. Shortly thereafter, the airport became a pioneer in using a runway lighting system, which allowed for receiving and dispatching flights at night. These innovations made it one of the most modern and safe airports of its time.

The post-war aviation boom required significant expansion. In 1956, a new, more spacious and modern terminal was opened. However, one of the most significant achievements in the airport's history was the opening of a direct rail link to the city centre in 1968. This was the first project of its kind in North America, decades ahead of its time, and became a model for other metropolises.

In subsequent decades, the airport was modernized repeatedly. In the 1970s and 1980s, new waiting halls (concourses) were completed to serve the growing number of passengers. At various periods in its history, Hopkins served as an important hub for major airlines, including United Airlines. Large-scale reconstructions in the late 20th and early 21st centuries were aimed at improving navigation, passenger comfort, and increasing the overall efficiency of terminal operations.

Today, Cleveland Hopkins is not just an important transport hub, but a living monument to aviation history. Its journey from an experimental airfield to a modern international complex reflects nearly a century of evolution in air travel. It continues to play a key role in the region's transport system, preserving the legacy of one of the world's oldest and most innovative airports.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) offers passengers a full range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, here you will find everything necessary for a pleasant start or end to your journey.

For those who are hungry, the airport has numerous restaurants, lounges, and cafés. The selection varies from fast food establishments for those in a hurry to comfortable restaurants where you can dine in peace. Shops offer a wide range of goods: from souvenirs with Cleveland branding and duty-free items to books, electronics, and essentials. For passengers seeking greater comfort, premium lounges are available, such as The Club CLE, where you can relax in silence and enjoy snacks and beverages.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will allow you to stay connected at all times. ATMs and currency exchange points are provided for financial matters. In case of need, passengers can seek medical assistance at the appropriate points.

The airport cares about the comfort of all categories of travellers. For passengers with children, special mother and child rooms are equipped for care and feeding. The terminals are fully adapted for people with reduced mobility: there are ramps, lifts, and adapted restrooms. Airport staff are always ready to provide necessary assistance.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, a hotel is located right on the airport grounds, and there are several other hotels in the immediate vicinity, often served by free shuttles. For business travellers who need to work or hold a meeting, the airport provides business centres and conference rooms equipped with everything necessary for work.

At Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), travellers will find diverse dining options to suit every taste and budget. Most cafés and restaurants are conveniently located in the airside zone, meaning after passing through security, allowing you to relax and have a bite to eat while waiting to board your flight.

For a quick snack, there are numerous cafés and fast-food chains scattered throughout all concourses. This is an ideal choice if you are short on time. You will easily find freshly brewed coffee, sandwiches, salads, pastries, and other ready-made meals that are convenient to take on board.

If time permits, it is worth visiting one of the full-service restaurants. Here you can not only have a full lunch but also experience local culinary traditions. Look out for establishments offering local Ohio beverages and classic American dishes such as burgers and steaks. Some places reflect the cultural heritage of Cleveland, offering, for example, Polish dumplings (pierogi).

Passengers with special dietary needs will not go hungry either. Many establishments in the airport offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options—simply check the menu or ask the staff. The price range is quite wide: from affordable food courts to restaurants with a higher average bill, so everyone will find an option within their budget.

Most dining outlets operate from early morning until late evening to serve passengers on morning and evening flights. However, it is recommended to check the exact opening hours of a specific establishment on the official airport website, as they may change. Whether you are looking for a hearty breakfast or a light dinner, the gastronomic opportunities at Hopkins Airport will not disappoint you.

To ensure your journey through Cleveland Hopkins International Airport goes smoothly, follow our tips. Planning ahead will help avoid stress and make your experience more comfortable.

Arrival Time: For domestic flights within the USA, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to arrive 2.5-3 hours in advance. During morning and evening peak hours, as well as on public holidays, it is worth allowing extra time for completing all procedures.

Check-in and Security: The fastest way to check in is online on the airline's website. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or, if you are flying with hand luggage only, to the security checkpoint. When passing through security control (TSA), be prepared to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag. Members of TSA PreCheck or Global Entry programmes can pass through screening via an expedited procedure.

Seat Selection on the Plane: If you want to admire the views, choose a window seat. If you need more legroom and the ability to stand up freely, your ideal seat is by the aisle. It is best to choose and book a seat in advance, immediately after purchasing the ticket, to guarantee yourself the best option.

Hand Luggage: Remember the 3-1-1 liquids rule: all liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are strictly prohibited in the cabin. Always check current weight and size limits for hand luggage on your airline's website to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connection in Cleveland, check the information board for the gate number of your next flight immediately upon arrival. The airport is not very large, but it is better to orient yourself straight away. If you are flying from another country on a domestic flight, you will need to pass through passport control, collect your luggage, and recheck it after passing customs.

Customs Control: When arriving from abroad, you will need to pass through customs and border control. Complete the declaration (this can often be done electronically via kiosks or the Mobile Passport Control app) and be prepared to answer the officer's questions about the purpose of your trip.

Saving Time and Money: Book parking online—it is often cheaper. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after security. To get to the city centre, use the RTA Red Line train—it is significantly better value than a taxi.

Flight Delays: In case of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact an airline representative for information on flight status and possible alternatives. Clarify if you are entitled to vouchers for meals or hotel accommodation. While waiting for departure, you can visit the shops and cafés located in the terminal.