CHO Airport Insights & Guide
Key CHO Airport Topics:- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know CHO Airport
Discover the charm of Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO), your portal to the scenic Shenandoah Valley and beyond. CHO stands out with its unique art exhibits, showcasing local talent and culture. Our concise guide covers everything from flight tracking to parking, ensuring a seamless travel experience. For a deeper dive into airport insights, check out our Comprehensive Airport Guide.
iFly Tip: Ensure a pleasant flight for your family by following the advice on our Flying with Children page.
Navigating CHO's Terminals
CHO Airport has one terminal building with two levels. The terminal has six gates in total, with four gates on the lower level and two gates on the upper level. The terminal is divided into two concourses, Concourse A and Concourse B.
Concourse A is located on the lower level and has gates A1, A2, A3, and A4. This concourse is used by Delta and American Airlines. Concourse B is located on the upper level and has gates B1 and B2. This concourse is used by United Airlines and American Airlines.
When arriving at the airport, passengers can access the terminal building through the main entrance. Once inside, passengers can proceed to the check-in counters, which are located on the lower level. After checking in, passengers can proceed to the security checkpoint, which is also located on the lower level. Once through security, passengers can access the gates on either the lower or upper level, depending on their airline and gate assignment.
For passengers who need to navigate the terminal, there are information desks located on both the lower and upper levels. These desks are staffed by airport personnel who can provide assistance with directions, flight information, and other airport-related inquiries.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
The airport has a single terminal building, making it easy for passengers to navigate the airport. The terminal building houses all the necessary facilities, including check-in counters, baggage claim, security checkpoints, and departure gates. The airport is relatively small, and passengers can easily walk from one end of the terminal to the other in just a few minutes.
For passengers who require assistance, the airport provides wheelchairs and mobility assistance upon request. There are also elevators and escalators available to help passengers move between different levels of the terminal building. The airport does not have any shuttle buses or trains to transport passengers between terminals since there is only one terminal building.
Tips from CHO Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Charlottesville Albemarle Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from CHO-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"The layout at CHO is super straightforward. Just remember, Concourse A is where Delta and American Airlines usually are, while Concourse B is for United. If you’re in a rush, use the information desks—they’re really helpful." — Emily C., Crozet, VA, January 2024
"The terminal's small size means you can get from check-in to your gate in no time. The key is to arrive early, especially during peak travel times, to avoid any last-minute stress." — James L., Charlottesville, VA, March 2024
Getting To/From the City
"If you're heading into Charlottesville, the CAT bus is a great option. It's cheap and the stop is right outside baggage claim. Just check the schedule ahead of time!" — Priya S., Keswick, VA, February 2024
"Ride-shares like Uber and Lyft are super convenient here. Just make sure to head to the designated pickup area outside baggage claim to avoid any confusion." — Miguel R., Ruckersville, VA, June 2024
Parking
"For long trips, I always go for the surface parking lots. They’re a bit further out but way cheaper than the garage. Plus, the shuttle service is pretty reliable." — Laura K., Palmyra, VA, April 2024
"The parking garage is perfect if you want to be close to the terminal. It's safe and convenient, especially if you're in a hurry or have a lot of luggage." — Ahmed T., Ivy, VA, July 2024
Inside the Airport
"Don’t miss the Monticello Wine Trail Shop if you have time. It’s a great place to pick up some local wine and snacks before your flight." — Rachel P., Earlysville, VA, May 2024
"The Tin Whistle Irish Pub is my go-to spot for a pre-flight meal. The atmosphere is relaxing, and the food is always good." — Carlos M., Lake Monticello, VA, August 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Keep an eye on the Flight Information Display System for any updates. It’s the most reliable way to stay informed about delays or gate changes." — Olivia J., Scottsville, VA, September 2024
"Download your airline’s app. It’s super helpful for getting real-time updates on your flight status, especially if there are any last-minute changes." — Daniel H., Gordonsville, VA, October 2024
iFly Tip: Find out how to reduce your airport wait time with insights from our guide to airport wait times.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At CHO Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal building. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended. Drivers can wait in their vehicles for up to 15 minutes while waiting for their passengers to arrive.
For those who need to wait longer, the airport provides a cell-phone waiting area located just a short distance from the terminal. This area is free of charge and allows drivers to park and wait for their passengers to call them when they are ready to be picked up. Once the passenger has collected their luggage and is ready to be picked up, the driver can proceed to the curbside for pickup.
Parking Facilities & Options
The airport offers several parking options for travelers. The airport has a parking garage located adjacent to the terminal building, which is ideal for those who want to park their vehicles closer to the airport. The garage is safe, secure, and convenient for travelers.
For those who want to save money, the airport also offers surface parking lots that are located a short distance from the terminal. These lots are easily accessible and offer a more economical parking option for travelers.
If you are waiting for someone to arrive at the airport, there is a cell phone waiting area available. This area is located near the terminal building and is free to use. You can park your vehicle here and wait for your loved ones to arrive without having to pay for parking.
Handicapped parking is available in both the parking garage and surface parking lots. The airport provides designated parking spaces for individuals with disabilities that are located close to the terminal building.
If you are looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near the airport. These parking lots offer shuttle services to and from the airport and are a great option for those who want to save money on parking fees.
Transportation Options
Charlottesville Albemarle Airport offers several ground transportation options for travelers arriving at the airport:
- Car Rentals: Several car rental companies are located at Charlottesville Albemarle Airport, including Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis. These companies offer a variety of vehicles to choose from at competitive prices. The car rental center is conveniently located within the airport premises, making it easy for travelers to pick up and drop off their rental vehicles.
- Taxis: Taxis are available at the designated taxi stand located outside of baggage claim. Fares vary depending on your destination, so be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before beginning your trip. Taxis provide a convenient and direct way to reach your destination from the airport.
- Ride-Share Services: Services such as Uber and Lyft are available at the airport. These can be requested through their respective apps and picked up at the designated ride-share pickup area located outside of baggage claim. Ride-share services offer a flexible and often more affordable option compared to traditional taxis.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for those who prefer a more convenient and cost-effective option. These shuttles operate on a regular schedule and can be booked in advance or upon arrival at the airport. Pickup areas are located outside of baggage claim. Fares vary depending on your destination and the shuttle service provider.
- Public Transportation: The Charlottesville Area Transit (CAT) provides bus service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located outside of baggage claim, and fares are affordable. This is a budget-friendly option for travelers looking to reach various parts of Charlottesville and the surrounding areas.
iFly Tip: Avoid delays at security by following our carry-on luggage tips to ensure smooth screening.
Airport Hotels
Are you looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? We have curated a list of the best hotels to suit a variety of needs and preferences. From budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts, each hotel offers a unique blend of comfort and convenience. Whether you're in transit, on a business trip, or simply need a place to rest after a long flight, these hotels are located in close proximity to the airport and offer easy access to local attractions or public transport. Discover the best hotel options and book your stay now at CHO Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Charlottesville Albemarle Airport offers a range of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite, head to the Blue Ridge Café for some delicious sandwiches, salads, and soups. For a more upscale dining experience, visit the Tin Whistle Irish Pub, which offers a variety of Irish and American dishes, as well as a great selection of beers and spirits. Both restaurants are located in the main terminal.
If you need to do some shopping, stop by the Monticello Wine Trail Shop for some local wines, cheeses, and other gourmet products. You can also find some great gifts and souvenirs at the Charlottesville Gift Co. Both stores are located in the main terminal as well.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Charlottesville Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map.
Passenger Services
- Free Wi-Fi: Charlottesville Airport provides complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the terminal, ensuring travelers can stay connected during their time at the airport.
- Lost and Found: If you misplace an item during your journey, the lost and found office is available to help you locate your belongings.
- Children's Play Area: To keep young travelers entertained, Charlottesville Airport features a designated children's area where kids can play and burn off some energy before their flight.
- Special-Needs Services: The airport offers wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and other services for passengers with special needs. It’s recommended to notify your airline in advance if you require any assistance.
- ATM: An ATM is available in the terminal, providing access to banking services while you’re at the airport.
- Medical Assistance: In case of a medical emergency, assistance is available to provide support and arrange transportation to a nearby hospital if needed.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At CHO, there are several ways to get up-to-date information about your departure.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Another convenient option is to download your airline's mobile app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also sign up to receive notifications via text, email, or push notifications.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at CHO Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO) is located in Charlottesville, Virginia, United States.
- Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building offering amenities such as restaurants, shops, and free Wi-Fi.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. For a complete list of airlines, visit the CHO Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Charlottesville Albemarle Airport handles approximately 1,500 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport averages around 25 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from CHO are Charlotte, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., and New York City.
- Hub Status: CHO is not a hub for any major airline, but American Airlines and Delta Air Lines operate a significant number of flights from the airport.
Airport History
Charlottesville Airport, located in Virginia, has a rich history dating back to the 1950s. Here are some significant events in its history:
- 1955: The airport was established as a small general aviation airport.
- 1962: The airport was officially named Charlottesville-Albemarle Airport.
- 1984: The airport underwent a major expansion, which included a new terminal building and runway extension.
- 1990: United Express began offering daily flights to Washington Dulles International Airport.
- 2004: Delta Connection began offering daily flights to Atlanta.
- 2011: The airport completed a $10 million renovation project, which included a new baggage claim area and expanded parking.
- 2016: American Airlines began offering daily flights to Charlotte and Philadelphia.
- 2019: The airport celebrated its 60th anniversary with a community event and open house.
Today, CHO serves over half a million passengers annually and continues to be an important transportation hub for the region.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Charlottesville Albemarle Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: CHO
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 434-973-8342
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Charlottesville Albemarle Airport, 100 Bowen Loop, Suite 200, Charlottesville, VA 22911, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
About this Page: Please note that while we strive to keep the content on this page current and accurate, we cannot guarantee it due to the ever-changing nature of airports and airlines; for more details about our data and practices, refer to our Trust & Transparency statement. To report any data issues, use our feedback form.
Charlottesville Albemarle Airport Q&A
Find more help here for your journey through the airport