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Former Air Force base turned international cargo and charter hub.
Opened
1942
Location
Columbus, United States
Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) is a joint-use civilian and military airport located on the southeast side of Columbus, Ohio. Originally established as Lockbourne Army Air Base in 1942, it was later renamed in honor of World War I flying ace Eddie Rickenbacker, a Columbus native. The Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing still operates from the airfield.
The airport transitioned to civilian use after the Air Force closed its active-duty presence in 1980, and it has since developed into a major cargo and logistics hub. Its long runways—originally built for heavy military aircraft—make it well-suited for wide-body freighter operations. Airlines such as UPS, FedEx, and various charter carriers utilize the facility.
While Rickenbacker handles limited scheduled passenger service, it serves primarily as a cargo airport and reliever field for the busier John Glenn Columbus International Airport. Its Foreign Trade Zone designation and proximity to major interstates have helped attract logistics and distribution operations to the surrounding industrial park.
Terminals
The airport has a modest passenger terminal capable of handling charter and limited scheduled service, with most infrastructure dedicated to cargo operations.
Getting to & from
Rickenbacker is accessible primarily by private vehicle and taxi via Interstate 270 and US Route 33, with limited public transit options connecting to the Columbus metro area.
Airlines here
The airport is primarily served by cargo carriers including UPS and FedEx, with occasional charter passenger operations.
Notable facts
- ›Named after World War I ace and Columbus native Eddie Rickenbacker.
- ›Originally opened as Lockbourne Army Air Base in 1942.
- ›Features runways over 12,000 feet long, a legacy of its military past.
- ›Home to the Ohio Air National Guard's 121st Air Refueling Wing.
- ›Designated as a Foreign Trade Zone, attracting logistics and distribution businesses.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
