CPH decoded: Copenhagen airport code, terminals and travel-day help
CPH is Copenhagen Airport’s passenger-facing IATA code. This guide also explains EKCH, Kastrup, Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, 2026 security changes, Schengen passport control, transfers, metro and rail links, parking, baggage, accessibility and the airport services travelers actually need.
Check these official sources before leaving
A guide can explain how Copenhagen Airport works, but it should not freeze changing information into the page. For your flight, use the airport’s live flight record and then confirm airline-specific changes with the operating carrier.
Flight status
Check departures, arrivals, terminal, gate and operational updates.
Airport live checks & travel tools
Use current local conditions, official live-status links and planning calculators before you travel. Airline gate, terminal and flight times can change; your carrier remains the final source for flight-specific details.
Live flight center
Check the airport's official flight board, then confirm any last-minute gate or timing change with the airline.
Current airport-area weather
Useful for planning your trip to the airport. This is model-based local weather, not an aviation METAR or an airline operational forecast.
Quick official checks
Open the source that matches the decision you are making right now.
When should I reach the airport?
A planning estimate based on flight type and common time buffers. Always increase the buffer for severe weather, major holidays, unusual airport alerts or airline instructions.
Connection-risk checker
This is a planning heuristic, not an airline minimum-connection-time rule. International arrivals that require U.S. entry processing, baggage claim and security can need substantially more time.
Parking cost estimator
Uses the airport-specific rates stored in this article's configuration. Rates can change; verify availability and final pricing on the official parking page before driving in.
Passenger pickup readiness
Landing time is not curb-ready time. Add time for taxiing, deplaning, baggage claim, customs when applicable and walking to the correct pickup zone.
Airport map
Find security, passport control, toilets, gates, lounges, shops and services.
What is the Copenhagen airport code?
CPH is the three-letter IATA code for Copenhagen Airport. It is the code passengers normally see when booking flights, checking schedules, reading baggage tags or confirming the airport shown on a ticket.
The four-letter ICAO location indicator is EKCH. Denmark’s official aeronautical information lists the aerodrome as EKCH – København/Kastrup.
Where is Copenhagen Airport?
Copenhagen Airport is located at Kastrup on the island of Amager. Denmark’s aeronautical information places its aerodrome reference point approximately 4.4 nautical miles south-southeast of Copenhagen.
Passenger address
Copenhagen Airport
Lufthavnsboulevarden 6
2770 Kastrup
Denmark
Airport operator
Copenhagen Airports A/S operates the airport. The company also appears in the official aeronautical data as the aerodrome administrator.
General contact
Airport customer telephone: +45 32 31 32 31
Email shown by CPH: cph@cph.dk
How large is CPH?
Copenhagen Airport’s operational information describes two integrated terminals, a shared airside concourse, multiple piers, more than 100 gates and three runways. That makes CPH a large hub even though the passenger terminals function as a connected complex.
Terminal 2
One of the airport’s main passenger check-in areas.
Terminal 3
Connected directly to metro and mainline rail services.
Three runways
Published runway directions include 04L/22R, 04R/22L and 12/30.
How Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 work
Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 are physically integrated with the airport’s shared airside passenger areas. Do not interpret the terminal number as meaning you must transfer between distant airport buildings.
Your check-in terminal is still important. Airlines can be assigned to different desks and terminal areas, so check the live flight record before heading to a specific entrance.
| Area | Main use | What traveler should verify |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 2 | Major passenger check-in area and access to security | Airline check-in desk and opening time |
| Terminal 3 | Check-in plus direct metro and railway access | Train/metro route and current check-in assignment |
| Airside piers/gates | Boarding, passport-controlled routes and airline lounges | Gate and whether passport control is required |
Check-in and bag drop at Copenhagen Airport
CPH recommends checking in online when your airline supports it. Online check-in can reduce time spent at the airline counter, but you may still need to use bag drop or show documents before departure.
Check your airline first
Airlines decide when check-in opens, the baggage allowance and whether online or self-service check-in is available.
Find your live CPH flight
The official departure record can show the check-in terminal, desk range, opening time, gate and operational updates.
Print or attach a baggage tag if required
Self-service equipment can be available for supported airlines. Remove old barcode stickers from earlier journeys so baggage systems are less likely to read the wrong tag.
Drop checked baggage
Use the airline’s assigned staffed or self-service bag-drop point, then continue to security.
Keep following the flight
Gate numbers can change, so use the airport screens, official website or CPH app after security.
CPH security: CT scanners and liquid rules
Copenhagen Airport opened a new security control with 20 CT-scanner lanes on May 19, 2026. The scanners create three-dimensional images of baggage and changed several parts of the screening process.
Electronics stay packed
CPH says laptops, tablets and other electronic devices can remain inside hand baggage during screening.
Belts and shoes
The new process allows passengers to keep watches, belts and shoes on unless staff instruct otherwise.
100 ml still matters
The airport continues to apply the 100 ml maximum container rule for normal liquids in hand baggage.
The airport’s current baggage guidance says liquids should be in containers of no more than 100 ml and placed together in one clear, resealable one-litre bag. One such bag is allowed per traveler under the airport’s current passenger guidance.
Passport control and EES at Copenhagen Airport
Flights crossing the Schengen external border require passport control. CPH advises travelers to keep their passport ready and allow additional time when a passport-control step applies.
Self-service passport control
CPH states that automatic passport control requires an electronic passport with a chip, age 18 or older, and EU, EEA or Swiss citizenship. Passengers who do not meet those criteria use staffed passport control.
Families and mixed nationalities
Families with children under 18 use staffed control rather than the automatic e-gates. Travelers with different passport categories may need the “All Passports” route.
Entry/Exit System (EES)
CPH announced implementation of the EU Entry/Exit System for affected travelers entering or leaving the Schengen Area. For eligible non-Schengen nationals arriving from outside Schengen, the airport described a registration process using self-service kiosks before passport control, including travel information and biometric processing.
CPH also warned that border-processing time can be longer under the newer system. Visa, residence-permit and EES eligibility depend on your nationality and status, so use official EU and Danish border information when planning an international trip.
How transfers work at CPH
Copenhagen Airport is a significant Nordic transfer hub. The integrated terminal layout helps, but connection time still depends on gate distance, Schengen border requirements, security routing and whether your baggage is checked through to the final destination.
Find the onward flight
Use the airport screens or official flight search to confirm your next gate. Do not rely on an old gate saved before departure.
Check baggage status
If both flights are on one protected itinerary, baggage may be transferred automatically, but the airline controls this. On separate tickets you may need to collect and recheck baggage.
Know the border transition
A Schengen-to-non-Schengen or non-Schengen-to-Schengen connection can require passport control.
Watch the connection clock
Boarding closes before scheduled departure. Compare your available time with walking, security and passport-control requirements.
Metro, train, bus and taxi from Copenhagen Airport
Terminal 3 is the key public-transport access point. Both the metro and mainline rail network connect directly to the passenger terminal complex.
| Transport | Where to find it | Useful detail | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | Direct extension of Terminal 3 | CPH states about 15 minutes between Nørreport and the airport; frequent daytime/evening service. | Central Copenhagen |
| Train | Terminal 3 | Services toward Copenhagen and Malmö. Buy a valid ticket before boarding. | Mainline rail and Sweden |
| Bus | Airport bus stops | Several local and longer-distance services operate; use current journey-planning information. | Routes not convenient by rail |
| Taxi | Pickup outside Terminal 3 | Drop-off is available outside both T2 and T3. Card payment is usually possible. | Door-to-door travel |
Metro details
The metro station is directly connected with Terminal 3. CPH says trains run every 4–6 minutes during much of the day and evening and approximately every 15–20 minutes at night. The journey between Nørreport and the airport takes about 15 minutes.
Travelers with hand baggage only can use the approximately 100-metre footbridge from the metro area toward security, Terminal 2 and SAS Fast Track.
Train details
InterCity services operate between Copenhagen Airport and Copenhagen city centre. CPH also lists trains between the airport and Malmö in Sweden. Train and metro tickets can be purchased through ticket facilities in Terminal 3, but train tickets are not sold onboard.
Parking, Kiss & Fly and passenger pickup
CPH offers multiple parking products at different distances and price levels. Availability and online rates vary by travel dates, so the official booking system should be used instead of relying on a static price table.
Direct parking
Designed for short walks to the terminal. CPH currently groups several facilities into its direct-parking category.
Budget parking
More distant parking areas can use CPH’s free terminal bus between remote car parks, the Car Rental Centre and the terminals.
Kiss & Fly
Current CPH flight information may direct drivers dropping off passengers to Kiss & Fly lanes in P4 opposite Terminal 2.
Taxi pickup is directly outside Terminal 3, while taxi drop-off is provided outside Terminal 2 and Terminal 3. For a private-car pickup, follow current CPH parking and curb signage because active road areas are not intended for waiting.
Car rental at CPH
Most conventional car-rental companies operate from the airport’s Car Rental Centre at the western end of Copenhagen Airport. The airport’s free terminal bus provides access between the Car Rental Centre, Terminals 2 and 3 and selected parking areas.
CPH also lists a digital rental operation in P7a, Level 1, Zone E, which is directly connected with Terminal 3.
Carry-on, checked bags and power banks
Carry-on allowance
Your airline determines the number, dimensions and weight of cabin bags. Airport security rules do not replace the airline’s baggage allowance.
Checked bags
Use the airline’s assigned baggage counter or self-service bag drop. Remove old barcode stickers from previous journeys.
Power banks
CPH’s baggage guidance says power banks must not be placed in checked baggage. Review current airline and airport rules before packing one in cabin baggage.
Baby food and liquids
CPH’s carry-on guidance treats baby food as an exception to the normal 100 ml liquid restriction when it is needed for the journey. Other liquids should follow the current security rules.
Odd-size baggage
Prams, bicycles, skis, pets and other oversized items may use special baggage procedures. Your flight’s live record and airline instructions are the best sources for the applicable counter and handling rules.
What to do if checked baggage is delayed or damaged
The handling company serving your airline is normally responsible for delayed, missing or damaged checked baggage. CPH advises travelers who are still in the baggage-claim area to contact the relevant baggage service office before leaving when possible.
Keep your baggage receipt
You may need the baggage tag receipt and boarding pass or travel document when reporting the problem.
Report the issue promptly
If you are still in baggage claim, locate the appropriate service office for your airline’s ground handler.
Use the airport guide after leaving
If you have already left the airport, CPH’s lost-baggage guide directs travelers to the appropriate handling company and contact route.
Differentiate baggage from lost property
A suitcase that failed to arrive is a baggage-handling issue; an item left in the terminal or aircraft may follow a different lost-property process.
Accessibility and reduced-mobility assistance
Copenhagen Airport is responsible for assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility, with Falck providing the airport’s assistance service. Assistance can cover movement through the terminal, wheelchair support, boarding and other qualifying needs.
Arrange assistance through the airline or travel agency when booking, especially when you have a mobility device or service animal. CPH specifically asks passengers travelling with an electric wheelchair or assistance dog to request help at least 48 hours before departure.
Meeting points
CPH identifies assistance meeting points in Terminal 2, between T2 and T3, Terminal 3, P4 and the metro station.
Hidden disabilities
The airport supports the Sunflower Lanyard program. The lanyard can signal that a traveler may need patience or additional help, but it does not by itself guarantee priority security processing.
Family security, play areas and baby needs
CPH provides family-focused facilities rather than expecting parents to use every standard passenger process unchanged.
Family security lane
Families with young children under 6 can use a family lane at security, with airport staff typically directing eligible travelers.
Play areas
Airport information lists indoor play facilities between Gates A and B and another play area near Gates F.
Baby facilities
CPH provides guidance covering prams, baby food, changing facilities, a baby lounge and other practical family needs.
Wi-Fi, charging, quiet areas and smoking
Free Wi-Fi
The airport network is CPH Airport Free Wi-Fi. CPH says it is available before and after security and at all gates, without a password.
Charging
Charging points are available in many areas before security and at most gates. CPH lists outlets and charging options in central passenger areas and several gate zones.
Quiet seating
Seating is available throughout the gate areas. CPH also identifies quieter zones, including an area near the C-gate direction.
Smoking
CPH is a non-smoking airport except for designated areas. Before security, smoking is limited to marked outdoor zones between T2 and T3 entrances. After security, designated outdoor areas are available near Gate A and the beginning of Gates C after passport control.
CPH applies the same smoking-location rules to electronic cigarettes.
Lounges, workspaces and nearby hotels
CPH has airline lounges and common-use lounges. Access can depend on airline status, cabin class, membership, available capacity or paid entry, so check the lounge’s current rules before travel.
Schengen-side options
Lounges after security around the A/B gate area can serve qualifying passengers and, for some facilities, paying visitors when capacity permits.
Non-Schengen lounge
CPH lists Eventyr Lounge after passport control toward Gates C26–C28 for passengers departing outside the Schengen area.
Work and charging
Airport lounge facilities commonly include Wi-Fi, charging and flight-information screens; individual amenities vary.
Airport hotels
Clarion Hotel Copenhagen Airport is steps from Terminal 3. Comfort Hotel is approximately a five-minute walk from Terminal 3 through indoor corridors. Both are convenient for an overnight layover, early departure or late arrival.
Arrival, baggage claim and customs
After arrival, follow the airport signs and your flight’s live baggage information. If your journey crosses the Schengen external border, passport control can take place before or during the route to baggage claim depending on the arrival flow.
Follow arrival signs
Use the correct border-control route when applicable.
Find the assigned baggage carousel
The flight record or terminal screens show the active baggage belt.
Handle baggage problems before leaving
If a checked bag is missing or damaged, contact the appropriate baggage service office when possible.
Use the correct customs channel
CPH flight information tells passengers with goods to declare, or who are unsure, to contact Danish Customs through the red channel before leaving the baggage area.
Continue to ground transport
Metro, train and taxi access is concentrated around Terminal 3.
VAT refunds at Copenhagen Airport
Travelers with a permanent address outside the EU may qualify for a Danish VAT refund when the applicable purchase and export requirements are met.
Residency
The CPH guidance is intended for travelers whose permanent address is outside the EU.
Purchase threshold
CPH currently states that purchases must total more than DKK 300 from the same store, with a different minimum rule stated for residents of Norway.
Export deadline
The goods must be taken out of the EU within three months from the month of purchase under the airport’s published guidance.
Shopping and dining at CPH
Copenhagen Airport has shops, restaurants, cafés and bars across its passenger areas. Opening hours and individual outlets can change, so use the airport directory or app when a specific meal, pharmacy-style product, duty-free purchase or late-night option matters.
CPH’s TAX FREE information states that travelers departing from the airport show a boarding pass in the TAX FREE shops. Airport retail liquid purchases made after security follow airport-retail rules, but connecting passengers should still consider the security requirements at any onward airport.
Build a safer CPH departure plan
Copenhagen Airport map
The map below is useful for geographic orientation. For indoor navigation between check-in, security, passport control, gates and services, use Copenhagen Airport’s own interactive terminal map.
Copenhagen Airport code FAQs
What is the airport code for Copenhagen?
The passenger-facing IATA airport code for Copenhagen Airport is CPH.
What is Copenhagen Airport’s ICAO code?
The ICAO location indicator is EKCH. Denmark’s aeronautical information identifies the airport as EKCH – København/Kastrup.
Is CPH the same as Kastrup Airport?
Yes. CPH is Copenhagen Airport at Kastrup, Denmark. Kastrup is the airport’s physical locality.
Does Copenhagen Airport have Terminal 1?
Current passenger operations are organized around the integrated Terminal 2 and Terminal 3 complex. Travelers should use their live flight record rather than old references to former terminal arrangements.
Is Copenhagen Airport Terminal 2 or Terminal 3?
It uses both. T2 and T3 are integrated passenger terminals. Your airline and flight record determine the correct check-in terminal and desk.
How early should I arrive at CPH?
Copenhagen Airport currently recommends arriving at least two hours before a Schengen departure and at least three hours before a non-Schengen departure. Check your airline’s own check-in and bag-drop deadlines as well.
Can electronics stay in my bag at CPH security?
Yes. CPH’s 2026 CT-scanner security system allows electronic devices to remain in hand baggage during screening. Follow staff instructions if additional screening is required.
Can I take liquids larger than 100 ml through CPH security?
Normal hand-baggage liquids are still limited to containers of no more than 100 ml under CPH’s current published rules unless a specific exemption applies.
Where is the metro at Copenhagen Airport?
The airport metro station is in direct extension of Terminal 3.
How long does the metro take from CPH to central Copenhagen?
CPH states that the metro journey between Copenhagen Airport and Nørreport takes about 15 minutes.
Can I take a train from CPH to Malmö?
Yes. Copenhagen Airport lists train services between the airport and Malmö, Sweden. Confirm the current timetable and platform before travel.
Do I need passport control at Copenhagen Airport?
Passport control applies when your journey crosses the Schengen external border. Your route, nationality and travel status determine the exact process.
Does Copenhagen Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes. CPH Airport Free Wi-Fi is available before security, after security and at the gates, and the airport states that no password is required.
Where do taxis pick up at CPH?
The official taxi pickup point is directly outside Terminal 3. Taxi drop-off is available outside Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.
Where are rental cars at Copenhagen Airport?
Most conventional rental companies operate from the Car Rental Centre west of the terminals, reached by the airport’s free terminal bus. CPH also lists a digital rental location in P7a near Terminal 3.
How this CPH guide was checked
The article prioritizes Copenhagen Airport’s passenger and operational pages together with Denmark’s official aeronautical information. Information that changes frequently is explained but not presented as permanently live.