Why does DL charge ridiculous prices for travel starting or ending in Cincy? The same reason that boy dogs lick their privates - BECAUSE THEY CAN. Much like USAirways virtually owns Pittsburgh Delta virtually owns CVG.

Though some may be willing to go to the hassle of driving to/from Lexington, Dayton, Louisville etc to save potentially hundreds of $$$ many other travelers don't/won't go to the trouble and instead pay the monster CVG fares.