At John Glenn Columbus International Airport, a concerning trend has emerged. The long-term parking garage, which should provide a safe haven for vehicles during travelers' absences, has instead become a magnet for car thieves. Since 2021, an alarming 11 vehicles have been reported stolen, with five happening just this year alone. With approximately 900,000 to a million people using the lot annually, these thefts are a significant concern.

Airport Security Under the Microscope

The security of the airport has come under intense scrutiny following the theft of three high-value Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawks in October. One vehicle was recovered, but it was stripped down to its frame, highlighting the extent of the criminal activity. Police reports consistently show that most of the thefts occur on levels 4 and 5 of the parking structure. Airport Police Chief Ron Gray acknowledges the situation, stating, "It's a long-term investigation. We're working with several other agencies." Thieves are taking advantage of vulnerabilities in the exit system, with three cases involving "piggybacking," where they follow closely behind another vehicle to bypass security gates. As Chief Gray explains, "We have a large parking garage here and we monitor it the best we can. Most of those thefts occurred in the middle of the night, and it was a piggyback situation; one car leaves and the other follows behind it."Despite the $24 daily parking fee that travelers pay for convenience and expected security, the thefts continue. Airport authorities claim to have increased security measures in response to the incidents. Parking is the second biggest source of revenue at any airport, and with thousands of unattended vehicles accessible to thieves, it presents a significant challenge. Additionally, people often don't report missing cars until days or weeks after they've returned, further complicating the situation.Travelers are advised to consider alternative parking options. Uncovered lots at the airport offer a cost-effective alternative. Off-site parking facilities are often less expensive and provide added security. Ridesharing services are also a viable option, allowing travelers to avoid the hassle of parking altogether. "Park, Sleep, Fly" services offer hotel stays with parking and shuttle services at competitive rates, providing a convenient solution.It is crucial for travelers to take precautions. Never leave your keys in the car and always lock your door. Using a car theft prevention device can also provide an extra layer of security. The recurring thefts of Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawks highlight a persistent problem, as similar incidents were reported in 2021 and 2023 according to police data. In two car theft reports, officers noted "No CCTV." When asked for clarification, the airport stated that "no CCTV footage doesn't necessarily mean cameras were inoperable." This raises questions about the effectiveness of the airport's surveillance system and the need for improved monitoring.In conclusion, the long-term parking lot at John Glenn Columbus International Airport has become a hotbed for car thefts. While authorities are taking steps to address the issue, travelers must also be vigilant and take proactive measures to protect their vehicles. By considering alternative parking options and following basic security precautions, travelers can reduce the risk of having their cars stolen.