James M. Cox Dayton International Airport

James M. Cox Dayton International Airport (DAY) is not merely an air gateway to Dayton, but also a vital aviation hub in the state of Ohio, USA. Located just a few minutes' drive north of the city, it bears the name of a renowned politician and media magnate. The airport is famous for its efficiency and passenger convenience, offering flights to key domestic destinations. As a base for the regional carrier PSA Airlines, it plays a significant role in developing air connectivity in the Midwest. This airport combines compactness with functionality, making it an attractive choice for business trips and leisure travel.

One of the key features of the airport is its well-thought-out logistics and transport accessibility. Passengers can easily reach the city centre and surrounding areas using buses from the Greater Dayton RTA. For those planning longer journeys, stations for Greyhound intercity buses and Amtrak trains are located nearby. The airport is the third busiest in the state of Ohio and is recognised as an important commercial aviation hub. Despite its moderate size, it has everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight: cafés, shops, and comfortable lounges.

For your convenience, we have compiled the essential contact information for James M. Cox Dayton International Airport (DAY). If you require assistance or additional information, please use the following details.

• Official Website: www.flydayton.com — here you will find flight schedules, terminal maps, and current news.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +1 937-454-8200. You can obtain general information about airport operations at this number.
• Airport Address: 3600 Terminal Dr, Dayton, OH 45424, USA.
• Email: The airport does not provide a public email address for general inquiries. It is recommended to use the contact form on their official website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the airport's official pages on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information: It is important to distinguish:
  • If your luggage is lost by the airline, you must contact your carrier's baggage tracing service directly.
  • If you left personal items within the terminal building (excluding TSA security zones), contact the airport Lost and Found at: +1 937-898-6555.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance directly at the airport, please approach the information desks or call the general inquiry number.

Getting to James M. Cox Dayton International Airport (DAY) from the centre of Dayton is quite simple, as it is located just 16 kilometres north of the city. Travellers have access to several transport options, varying in cost, speed, and convenience, allowing you to choose the most suitable way to travel to this important transport hub in the USA.

Public Transport: Bus
The most budget-friendly way to reach the airport is to use the services of the regional carrier RTA (Greater Dayton Regional Transit Authority). The Bus No. 43 route directly connects the city centre with the passenger terminal. The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes depending on traffic and stops. The ticket cost is just a few dollars, making this option ideal for economical tourists and those travelling light. It is best to check the schedule on the official RTA website, as the frequency of trips may change.

Taxi and Ridesharing Services
For those who value comfort and time, a taxi or popular services like Uber and Lyft are the optimal choice. A car journey from the centre of Dayton to the airport will take about 20-25 minutes barring traffic jams. The cost of such a trip usually ranges from $35 to $50. This is the fastest and most convenient method, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group.

Car Rental and Private Transport
If you plan to actively travel around the region, renting a car can be an excellent solution. Offices of all major rental companies are represented at Dayton Airport. You can easily reach the airport by private or rented car via the Interstate I-75 highway, following the signs. This option provides maximum flexibility and freedom of movement.

Parking at the Airport
For those arriving by private car, several parking options are provided on the airport grounds. At your service are Short-Term parking (Short-Term), located closest to the terminal, Long-Term (Long-Term), and the more affordable Economy Lot, from which free shuttles run to the terminal. Rates depend on the duration of parking, so it is recommended to review them in advance on the official airport website.

James M. Cox Dayton International Airport (DAY) features a well-designed structure convenient for passengers. It consists of one main terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to move between different buildings. All major processes — from check-in to boarding — take place within this single complex.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is divided into two main levels. On the lower floor is the Arrivals area with baggage claim belts and transport company counters. The upper level is intended for departing passengers: here you will find airline check-in counters, ticket offices, and the central Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint. After passing through security, passengers enter the common area, from which there are exits to two concourses.

Two passenger concourses (wings) extend from the central part of the terminal: Concourse A and Concourse B. You can move freely between them, as they are both located in the "clean" zone after security. Information regarding which concourse your flight departs from is indicated on your boarding pass. Each concourse has its own boarding gates, small waiting areas, restrooms, and several cafés and shops.

Check-in and security procedures at Dayton Airport generally proceed faster than at major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before the departure of a domestic flight. During peak periods, such as holidays, it is better to allow about 2 hours to complete all formalities, check luggage, and find your boarding gate without rushing.

For convenient navigation through the airport, pay attention to the numerous signs. After passing security screening, simply follow the signs to your concourse — A or B. Thanks to its compact size and logical layout, getting lost in Dayton Airport is practically impossible, making it comfortable even for those travelling for the first time.

The history of James M. Cox International Airport begins in 1936, when it was opened as the Dayton Municipal Airport. Located in the heart of aviation history in the USA, the city of Dayton, the birthplace of the Wright brothers, needed a modern airfield, and the new facility quickly became an important part of the region's transport infrastructure.

During World War II, the airport played a strategic role, being used by the US Army Air Forces for defence purposes. This period contributed to the development of its infrastructure. The real breakthrough occurred in the post-war years. In 1958, the first terminal was built, and in the 1960s and 70s, with the advent of the jet age, the airport underwent massive reconstruction and expansion of runways to accommodate new, larger aircraft.

In 1975, the airport received its modern name in honour of James M. Cox — a former Governor of Ohio and a prominent public figure. The golden era for the airport was the 1980s and 1990s, when it served as one of the key hubs for Piedmont Airlines, and later US Airways. During this time, passenger traffic reached record highs, and the route network connected Dayton with dozens of cities across the country and beyond.

In recent decades, the airport continues to modernise, adapting to the changing conditions of the aviation market. Regular updates to terminals, improvements to security systems, and navigation are being carried out. Although it is no longer a hub for a major airline, James M. Cox Airport remains an important transport node for southwest Ohio, proudly bearing a name connected with the dawn of world aviation.

James M. Cox International Airport in Dayton offers passengers a wide range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable as possible. The terminal houses various cafés and restaurants where you can grab a quick sandwich and coffee or have a full meal. Shops offer travellers souvenirs, press, books, and essential items that might be needed on the road.

For those for whom staying connected or working is important, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport. Additionally, numerous charging stations for electronic devices are equipped in the waiting halls so you can prepare your gadgets for the flight without any issues. For business travellers, business services and conference rooms are available, allowing for meetings or work in a quiet environment.

The airport cares for the comfort of all categories of passengers. For travellers with small children, special nursing rooms are provided where you can feed and change a baby in privacy. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on an accessible environment, including ramps, special restrooms, and staff assistance if necessary. In case of feeling unwell, one can visit the first aid station.

To handle financial matters, ATMs are installed in the terminal. If you have a long layover or an early departure, there are several hotels in the immediate vicinity of the airport offering comfortable accommodation. This is an excellent opportunity to rest before further travel across the USA or after arriving in the city.

At James M. Cox Dayton International Airport (DAY), travellers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, located both before and after passing security control. The selection of establishments caters to different tastes and time constraints, from a quick coffee before departure to a leisurely dinner.

In the public area (before security control), the choice is usually limited but sufficient for those seeing someone off or arriving early. Here you can find coffee shops serving fresh pastries, sandwiches, and beverages. It is an ideal place to enjoy a cup of coffee, for example, at Starbucks, or buy snacks for the road in small shops.

The majority of cafés and restaurants are concentrated in the departure zone, after passing security. In both waiting halls (Concourses A and B), there are establishments to suit every taste. For those looking for a full meal in a relaxed atmosphere, table-service restaurants such as Max & Erma's, known for its burgers and American cuisine, or 12th Fairway Bar & Grill are suitable. If you wish to relax with a beverage before your flight, MVP Bar & Grill is at your service.

For a quick bite, The Great American Bagel & Bakery, offering fresh bagels with various fillings, or the ubiquitous Starbucks for coffee lovers and light desserts, are excellent choices. As for local cuisine, the menus are primarily represented by classic American dishes: burgers, salads, sandwiches, and steaks. Prices at the airport are generally average, slightly higher than in the city, which is standard for most aviation hubs.

Most restaurants offer vegetarian options, such as salads or meat-free sandwiches. Finding specific gluten-free or vegan dishes might be more challenging, so it is recommended to verify their availability directly with the staff. The opening hours of cafés and restaurants are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last evening aircraft. However, it is worth noting that some establishments may close earlier, so it is best not to leave dinner until the last moment.

To ensure your journey through James M. Cox Dayton International Airport goes smoothly, make use of these proven tips. A little preparation will help avoid stress and save time, making your experience at the airport of Dayton as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. This will give you enough time for parking, baggage drop, passing security control, and a calm walk to the boarding gate. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight in advance and save the boarding pass on your smartphone.

Passing Security Control. Strict rules apply at airports in the USA. Be ready to present your ID and boarding pass. Large electronics (laptops, tablets) must be removed from bags. Remember the liquids rule for carry-on luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent resealable bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre. Comfortable shoes that are easy to remove will also speed up the process.

Seat Selection and Carry-on. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat offers beautiful views, while an aisle seat provides more legroom and freedom of movement. Always pack your most valuable items in your carry-on: documents, money, electronics, medication, and essentials. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are strictly prohibited. Be sure to check the weight and size limits for carry-on luggage on your airline's website.

Tips for Transit Passengers. If you have a connecting flight in Dayton, find information about the number of your next boarding gate on the display screens immediately upon arrival. Dayton Airport is relatively small, which makes transfers quite quick. Ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if you need to go through security control again.

Customs Control. Upon arrival from another country, you will have to pass through US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Have your passport, visa (if required), and completed customs declaration ready. Be prepared to answer questions about the purpose of your trip and the duration of your stay.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are usually higher, so you can bring light snacks with you. It is more cost-effective to book parking online in advance. To save time, study the airport map before your trip to navigate easily on-site.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact an airline representative for current information and possible options (for example, rebooking on another flight). Remain calm and keep all receipts for food or drinks — they may be needed to receive compensation from the airline or via travel insurance. Use this time to charge your gadgets or read a book.