HEBRON, Ky. – The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is planning for 330,000 travelers to fly in and out of the airport between Dec. 21-Jan. 2. 

What You Need To Know

  • The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport is planning for 330,000 travelers to fly in and out of the airport between Dec. 21-Jan. 2

  • That would be an 18% increase over 2022’s numbers

  • CVG spokesperson Mindy Kershner said that can be attributed to the airport adding two new airlines this year

  • Demand is highest for New York City, Houston, Denver, London and Orlando

That would be an 18% increase over 2022’s numbers.

Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport spokesperson Mindy Kershner said that can be attributed to the airport adding two new airlines this year, following an overall trend.

“Incrementally, every year since COVID, we have seen increases," Kershner said. "I think 18% is a pretty significant number over last year; we thought last year was pretty busy." 

The busiest time for departures is expected to be between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m., and arrivals remain steady from mid-morning through 11 p.m., with the busiest days expected to be Dec. 21-23 and Jan. 2.

Demand is highest for New York City, Houston, Denver, London and Orlando.

The Lewis family takes a mini-vacation to Florida every year before Christmas, and while it’s been stressful in the past, they have their game plan set this year.

"It's gone pretty smoothly so far; we're not quite through security yet, but smooth sailing," Megan Lewis said. "Parking was really easy, getting on the bus, getting our stuff packed; so yeah, we're heading in the right direction, hopefully.

"Make sure you have your alarm set, backup batteries, everything packed and ready to go. We had to be ready for Christmas ahead of time. So just planning, really being on top of everything you need to do, is my pro tip." 

Other tips include:

  • All passengers are advised to arrive in the terminal at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight.
  • Don’t confuse departure time with the final boarding time. Travelers should check with their carrier on what time the doors close prior to departure.        
  • Check TSA’s website for what you can bring through security. 
  • Visit the airport's website to view expected TSA wait times, parking availability and food options including CVG’s newest restaurants: Skyline, Frisch’s, Braxton Taproom, and Wendy’s.
  • There are several parking options at CVG, including the terminal garage (general and reserved), valet, ValuPark and Economy Lot 
  • A new taxi service at Ground Transport East launched Dec. 5 at CVG. The company is zTrip, and more information can be found on its website.

Related Stories