Summer travel is taking off at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE), and this year is expected to be one of the busiest yet. With an estimated 3.38 million passengers traveling through the airport during the 100 Days of Summer, CLE has you covered with key updates, new travel options, and tips to help you enjoy a smoother start to your summer adventures.

Whether you're heading to a beach, a big city, or somewhere new, here's what to know before you go.
 

What’s New and What to Expect This Summer

Central Security Checkpoint Renovation Is Now Open

Just in time for the summer rush, CLE’s newly renovated Central Security Checkpoint recently opened. This upgraded checkpoint is designed to improve traveler flow and enhance the overall screening experience, which is part of CLE’s commitment to continually improving the passenger journey.
 

More Ways to Fly From CLE

Travelers will have more airline and destination choices this season. Highlights include:

  • New Avelo Airlines service launching June 19
  • Air Canada’s inaugural nonstop service to Montréal (YUL)
  • JetBlue adds daily nonstop service to New York City (JFK)
  • American Airlines adds nonstops to Chicago (ORD) and Los Angeles (LAX)

More routes mean more flexibility, easier connections, and more opportunities to explore.
 

Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

Summer is the busiest travel period of the year, so planning ahead makes all the difference.

  • Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights
  • Check parking availability, flight status, dining options, and TSA wait times at https://www.clevelandairport.com/
  • Check in online with your airline up to 24 hours before departure

 

Parking and Transit Options

CLE offers a range of parking choices for every budget:

  • Curbside Valet: 37 dollars/day
  • Smart Parking Garage: 26 dollars/day
  • Red Lot: 24 dollars/day
  • Blue Lot: 24 dollars/day
  • Orange Lot: 21 dollars/day
  • Brown Lot: 15 dollars/day

Reserved parking is also available in select lots and can be booked up to 24 hours in advance at clevelandairport.com/parking-transportation.

Picking someone up? Skip circling and use the free CLE Cell Phone Lot off State Route 237 South.

For those headed downtown, the RTA Red Line provides direct rail service to Tower City.
 

Tips for Smooth and StressFree Security Screening

Before heading to the airport:

  • Have REAL ID-compliant identification ready
  • Review TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids
  • Double-check bags for prohibited items
  • Track checkpoint wait times online

CLE also offers several expedited screening programs:

  • TSA PreCheck dedicated lanes
  • CLEAR lanes at the Central, North, and South checkpoints
  • TSA Touchless ID available for eligible TSA PreCheck travelers using participating airlines

Starting May 22, TSA checkpoints will open earlier to keep morning travel moving:

  • South Checkpoint: 3:15 a.m.
  • North and Central Checkpoints: 3:45 a.m.
     

Help Is Always Available

CLE Ambassadors and Landside Operations staff are stationed throughout the terminal to assist with directions, questions, or general support, helping ensure every traveler has a smooth, welcoming experience.
 

Enjoy the Journey

With new routes, upgraded facilities, and plenty of tools to help you plan ahead, CLE is ready to make your summer travels smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re taking off for a quick weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip, your journey begins here.

Here’s to a fantastic summer!