Where is cph

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: CPH is the IATA airport code for Copenhagen Airport, located in Kastrup, Denmark, approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) southeast of Copenhagen's city center. As Scandinavia's busiest airport, it handled over 30 million passengers in 2023 and serves as a major hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Norwegian Air Shuttle.

Key Facts

CPH is Copenhagen Airport's IATA code, located in Kastrup, Denmark, 8 km (5 mi) southeast of Copenhagen city center
Opened on April 20, 1925, making it one of Europe's oldest operational airports
Handled 30.1 million passengers in 2023, making it Scandinavia's busiest airport
Serves as a hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Norwegian Air Shuttle
Features three terminals (Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and CPH Go) with over 130 shops and restaurants

Overview

CPH is the IATA airport code for Copenhagen Airport, Denmark's primary international gateway and the busiest airport in Scandinavia. Located in the municipality of Kastrup on the island of Amager, the airport sits approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) southeast of Copenhagen's city center. This strategic position makes it easily accessible via multiple transportation options, including the Copenhagen Metro, regional trains, buses, and taxis, with travel times to central Copenhagen typically under 15 minutes.

The airport opened on April 20, 1925, making it one of Europe's oldest operational airports still in use. Originally serving military purposes, it transitioned to civilian operations in the 1930s and has undergone significant expansions, including the addition of Terminal 3 in 1998 and the CPH Go terminal in 2010. Today, Copenhagen Airport serves as a major hub for Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Norwegian Air Shuttle, connecting Denmark to over 160 destinations worldwide across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.

How It Works

Copenhagen Airport operates as a modern aviation hub with efficient passenger processing and extensive facilities.

Terminal Operations: The airport features three main terminals: Terminal 2 (primarily for Schengen flights), Terminal 3 (for non-Schengen and long-haul flights), and CPH Go (for low-cost carriers). Together, they handle over 30 million passengers annually across more than 70 airlines. Terminal 3 alone processes approximately 14 million passengers each year and includes the airport's longest runway at 3,600 meters (11,811 feet).
Transportation Connectivity: CPH offers exceptional ground transportation links, including direct Metro service to Copenhagen Central Station every 4-6 minutes during peak hours, taking just 14 minutes. The airport also connects to regional train networks serving southern Sweden and Denmark, with over 300 daily train departures. Additionally, more than 20 bus routes and extensive taxi services provide comprehensive access to the greater Copenhagen region.
Passenger Services: The airport provides extensive amenities, including over 130 shops and restaurants, multiple lounges (such as the SAS Scandinavian Lounge and Aspire Lounge), and family facilities like play areas and baby care rooms. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, with premium options for faster speeds. CPH also features efficient security screening, with average wait times under 10 minutes during normal operations.
Cargo and Logistics: As a significant cargo hub, Copenhagen Airport handles approximately 400,000 tons of freight annually. The cargo area spans 100,000 square meters and includes specialized facilities for pharmaceuticals, perishables, and live animals. Major cargo operators include DHL, FedEx, and UPS, with direct connections to key global markets.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Copenhagen Airport (CPH)	Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)
Annual Passengers (2023)	30.1 million	25.1 million
Distance to City Center	8 km (5 mi)	37 km (23 mi)
Metro/Train to City	14 minutes (Metro)	38 minutes (Arlanda Express)
Number of Terminals	3	5
Longest Runway	3,600 m (11,811 ft)	3,300 m (10,827 ft)

Why It Matters

Economic Impact: Copenhagen Airport contributes significantly to Denmark's economy, generating approximately 25,000 direct jobs and supporting an additional 60,000 indirect jobs. The airport's operations contribute over 30 billion DKK (approximately $4.3 billion USD) annually to the national economy through tourism, trade, and business connectivity.
Regional Connectivity: As Scandinavia's busiest airport, CPH serves as a crucial gateway connecting Northern Europe to global markets. It offers direct flights to over 160 destinations worldwide, including 30 intercontinental routes. This connectivity supports business travel, tourism, and cultural exchange, with approximately 40% of passengers traveling for business purposes.
Sustainability Leadership: Copenhagen Airport has implemented ambitious environmental initiatives, aiming to become carbon neutral for airport operations by 2025. The airport has reduced its carbon emissions by 70% since 2007 through measures like using renewable energy (100% wind power since 2019) and implementing energy-efficient technologies across its facilities.

Looking forward, Copenhagen Airport continues to evolve with planned expansions and technological innovations. The airport is investing in digital transformation, including biometric boarding and automated baggage handling systems, to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency. As Denmark's primary international gateway, CPH will remain crucial for maintaining the country's global connections and supporting sustainable economic growth in the decades ahead.