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Cleveland Hopkins Airport CLE Airport Traveler Guide

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CLE Airport Insights & Guide

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Anthony Bruno
Reviewed by: Brian Ozment
Updated:
Key CLE Airport Topics:

Getting to Know CLE Airport

Welcome to the online guide for Cleveland Hopkins Airport, a bustling hub that connects travelers to destinations around the globe. Known for its rich history and efficient layout, CLE offers a seamless travel experience. This guide provides an overview of the airport's amenities, services, and transportation options. Whether you're a frequent flyer or embarking on your first air journey, our worldwide airport list will help you navigate CLE and other airports you may encounter on your travels.

WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through Cleveland Hopkins International Airport with a detailed walkthrough of Concourse A, B, and C:

Airport News

Cleveland Hopkins Airport is making significant strides in enhancing its services and infrastructure. In 2023, the airport saw a 13.5% increase in passenger activity, reaching nearly 10 million travelers, a strong recovery from pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, the airport introduced a new parking reservation system to streamline parking for travelers. The Terminal Modernization Development Program is set to begin in 2025, promising extensive upgrades to improve the passenger experience. These developments, alongside the addition of new airlines and routes, are aimed at accommodating the growing demand for air travel at Cleveland Hopkins (sources: wkyc.com, wkyc.com, cleveland.com).

CLE Airport has five terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and the Main Terminal. Concourse A has 10 gates and is primarily used by Southwest Airlines. Concourse B has 17 gates and is used by United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. Concourse C has 16 gates and is used by American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. Concourse D has 9 gates and is used by JetBlue and Delta Air Lines. The Main Terminal has 28 gates and is used by various airlines including Air Canada, Alaska Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

When navigating the airport, be sure to check your boarding pass for your departure gate and terminal information. The airport also has numerous signs and monitors throughout the terminals to help guide you to your destination. If you need additional assistance, there are information desks located throughout the airport where friendly staff members are available to answer any questions you may have.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

The airport has five concourses: A, B, C, D, and the Main Terminal. The Main Terminal is connected to all concourses by a walkway, making it easy to get to your next gate. If you need to travel between concourses, there is a complimentary shuttle bus service available that runs every 5-10 minutes. The shuttle bus picks up passengers at the center of each concourse and drops them off at their desired concourse. The walk time between the Main Terminal and Concourse A is approximately 5 minutes, and the walk time between each of the other concourses is approximately 10 minutes.

Tips from CLE Frequent Flyers

To help make your experience at Cleveland Hopkins Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from CLE-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"If you're flying Southwest, you'll find yourself in Concourse A, which is quite straightforward to navigate. Just follow the signs, and if you need help, the staff at the information desks are super friendly." — John D., Lakewood, OH, January 2024

"For those connecting between concourses, I recommend using the walkway if you have time. It’s a pleasant walk and often quicker than waiting for the shuttle during peak times." — Emily T., Parma, OH, March 2024

Getting To/From the City

"The RTA Red Line is your best friend if you want to save money and avoid traffic. It’s reliable and takes you straight into downtown Cleveland." — Carlos M., Cleveland, OH, February 2024

"If you're in a rush, taxis are available right outside the baggage claim, and they usually take about 20 minutes to get downtown." — Sarah K., Shaker Heights, OH, April 2024

Parking

"The Smart Parking Garage is perfect for short trips. It's right across from the terminals, so you don't waste time walking." — Mike L., Rocky River, OH, May 2024

"For longer stays, I use the Blue Lot. It’s cheaper, and the shuttle service is frequent and reliable." — Lisa R., Strongsville, OH, July 2024

Inside the Airport

"If you’re looking for a quick bite, Bar Symon near Concourse C is a must. They have great local beers, too!" — David B., Westlake, OH, June 2024

"Don’t miss the Great Lakes Brewing Co. if you have time before your flight. A nice spot to relax with a drink." — Anna P., Euclid, OH, August 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Always check your flight status on your airline’s app before heading to the airport. It saves time and stress if there are any changes." — Kevin S., Avon, OH, September 2024

"Arrive at least two hours early, especially during the holidays. Security lines can be unpredictable, and it's better to have some buffer time." — Jessica H., Mentor, OH, October 2024

iFly Tip: Don't miss our essential airport tips and advice for a smooth journey.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At CLE, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of each terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting areas instead of parking at the curbside. These waiting areas are located near each terminal and are free of charge.

Passengers can be picked up at the arrivals level of each terminal, while drop-offs are made at the departures level. It is important to note that vehicles cannot be parked or left unattended at the departures level. If you need to park your vehicle, there are several parking options available at the airport, including hourly and daily parking.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at CLE Airport, there are several options available for travelers. The airport offers both on-site parking and off-airport parking options to suit your needs.

On-site parking is available in the airport's parking garages and lots. The Smart Parking Garage is located directly across from the terminal and offers covered parking with easy access to the airport. The Red Lot and Blue Lot are also located on-site and offer a more economical parking option for travelers.

If you're picking up or dropping off passengers, the airport offers a free Cell Phone Waiting Area located just minutes from the terminal. This area allows you to wait in your car until your party has arrived and is ready to be picked up.

Handicapped parking is available in all on-site parking lots and garages. Designated spaces are located near the elevators and shuttle bus stops for easy access to the terminal.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking lots are available near the airport. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be a great way to save money on parking fees.

Get details about CLE parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

When arriving at the airport, there are several transportation options available to get you to your final destination.

  • Rental Cars: If you prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located on the lower level of the terminal. These include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. Prices vary depending on the company and type of vehicle you choose.
  • Taxis: Taxis are also available outside of the baggage claim area of the terminal. The fare to downtown Cleveland is approximately $25, and the ride takes about 20 minutes. Additional fees may apply for extra passengers or baggage.
  • Ride Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at Cleveland Hopkins Airport. Pickup locations are located on the south end of the baggage claim level. Please note that these services may have restrictions on the number of passengers or amount of baggage allowed.
  • Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available to transport passengers to nearby hotels and other destinations. These shuttles can be found on the south end of the baggage claim level. Fares vary depending on the destination.
  • Public Transportation: If you prefer public transportation, the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) offers bus and train services to and from the airport. The RTA station is located on the lower level of the terminal, and fares start at $2.50.

iFly Tip: Understand every aspect of your flight with expert insights on our flight explanation page.

Airport Hotels

Whether you're catching an early flight, arriving late, or simply seeking the convenience of staying close to the airport, finding the right hotel is crucial. Our guide provides an overview of various hotel options, each offering unique amenities and varying distances from the airport. From the prestigious Orbit Hotel, a part of the Trademark Collection by Wyndham, to the comfortable and well-equipped Extended Stay America Select Suites, there's something for every traveler's needs. Other options include the guest-focused Hilton Garden Inn, the easily accessible Ramada by Wyndham, and the unique 'Large Cleveland Home with Fire Pit and Backyard!' for those seeking a more homely feel. For those who prefer a hotel with a fitness center, the Best Western Airport Inn & Suites and the Holiday Inn Express are excellent options. We also cover budget-friendly options like the Motel 6, and those offering comprehensive kitchenettes like the Sonesta Simply Suites. Ready to book now? View all Cleveland Airport Hotels here.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Traveling through Cleveland Airport can be a delightful experience, especially when it comes to food and shopping. With a diverse range of restaurants and stores, the airport caters to all tastes and preferences. Some of the most popular restaurants include Auntie Anne's, Chick-fil-A, The Pub, Villa Italian Kitchen, Sammy's Beach Bar & Grill, Inca Tea Cafe, Bar Symon, and Great Lakes Brewing Co. When it comes to shopping, Hudson News, Kids Works, La Boutique, Johnston & Murphy, Sunglass Hut, and Hudson Booksellers are just a few of the many options available.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Cleveland Hopkins Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check out the food and shopping page.

Passenger Services

Cleveland Airport is dedicated to providing passengers with a comfortable and convenient travel experience. The airport offers a range of passenger services to ensure that travelers have everything they need during their time at the airport.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Passengers can easily connect to the airport's network and stay connected throughout their journey.

If you have lost an item at the airport, the Lost and Found office is located on the lower level of the main terminal. You can also contact the office by phone or email to report a lost item or inquire about a lost item.

Traveling with children? CLE offers several children's play areas located throughout the airport. These areas are designed to keep children entertained and provide a safe and fun environment for them to play in.

The airport also offers a range of special-needs services to assist passengers with disabilities. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible parking, and accessible restrooms. Passengers can contact the airport's customer service team to arrange for these services in advance of their travel.

Need to access banking services during your time at the airport? There are several ATMs located throughout the airport, including in the main terminal and in each concourse.

If you require medical assistance during your time at the airport, the airport's medical center is located on the lower level of the main terminal. The center is staffed by medical professionals who can provide assistance with minor medical issues and first aid.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is essential to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. One of the easiest ways to get flight status information is by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the Cleveland Hopkins Airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Passengers can also use airline mobile phone apps to get flight status updates. These apps allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. It is recommended to download the airline's app before arriving at the airport to ensure you have the most up-to-date information.

Another way to stay informed about flight status is by checking the airline's website. Most airlines have a flight status page where passengers can enter their flight number and get real-time updates on their flight's status.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at CLE Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

iFly Tip: Learn how airline hubs enhance connectivity across continents.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) is located in Cleveland, Ohio, United States.
  • Terminals: The airport consists of five terminals: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and the Main Terminal.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the CLE Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: Cleveland Hopkins Airport handles approximately 25,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: The airport sees an average of 300 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from CLE are Chicago, Atlanta, Charlotte, Denver, and Dallas.
  • Hub Status: Cleveland Hopkins Airport is a key hub for several airlines, facilitating extensive domestic and international connections.

Airport History

CLE, located in Cleveland, Ohio, has a rich history dating back to the early 1920s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1925 - The airport was established as the first municipal airport in the country.
  • 1929 - CLE Airport became the first airport in the world to have a radio control tower.
  • 1941 - The airport was renamed Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
  • 1954 - The first commercial jet service in the United States began at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
  • 1973 - The airport underwent a major expansion, including the addition of a new terminal and runway.
  • 1994 - A new international terminal was opened at the airport.
  • 2006 - The airport underwent a $1.5 billion renovation and expansion project, including the addition of a new parking garage and rental car center.
  • 2014 - Cleveland Hopkins International Airport celebrated its 90th anniversary.
  • 2020 - The airport saw a significant decrease in passenger traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cleveland Hopkins International Airport continues to serve as a major transportation hub in the Midwest, connecting travelers to destinations around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: CLE
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 216-265-6000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, 5300 Riverside Dr, Cleveland, OH 44135, United States

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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Cleveland Hopkins Airport Q&A

The RTA Red Line train is the most economical and reliable option, taking about 30 minutes to reach downtown Cleveland.
It is recommended to arrive at least two hours early to account for unpredictable security lines.
Bar Symon near Concourse C offers local beers and quick bites, making it a popular choice for travelers.
The Smart Parking Garage offers convenient covered parking, while the Blue Lot provides a budget-friendly option with reliable shuttle service.
A complimentary shuttle bus service runs every 5-10 minutes between concourses, and walking is also an option if time allows.
Consider walking between concourses if possible, as it can be faster than waiting for the shuttle during busy times.
Yes, there are several children's play areas located throughout the airport to keep kids entertained.
The Lost and Found office is located on the lower level of the main terminal.
Airport shuttles are available to transport passengers to nearby hotels and can be found on the south end of the baggage claim level.
Use the in-airport Flight Information Display System or download your airline's app for real-time updates on flight departures and gate changes.