CLT Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Airport Recent News
- 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 CLT Airport
Welcome to the online guide for Charlotte Douglas Airport, a bustling international hub located in the heart of North Carolina. As the second largest hub for American Airlines, CLT is known for its efficient layout and robust flight schedule. This guide provides an overview of the airport's services, amenities, and transportation options. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first air journey, our guide to navigating airports will help you traverse CLT and other global airports with ease.
WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through Charlotte Douglas Airport's ongoing transformation and experience a departure with American Airlines to JFK:
Airport News
Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) is undergoing several major developments to enhance passenger experience. A significant construction project is in progress, focusing on expanding the terminal lobby and adding new gates to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. Additionally, the airport has introduced a new airport overlook, offering travelers and visitors a unique vantage point to watch planes take off and land. These improvements aim to enhance the overall travel experience and operational efficiency at CLT. (sources: Axios, WCCB Charlotte)
Navigating CLT's Terminals
The airport has six terminals, including Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, Concourse E, and Main Terminal. Each terminal has a different number of gates, with Concourse A having 16 gates, Concourse B having 17 gates, Concourse C having 18 gates, Concourse D having 13 gates, Concourse E having 38 gates, and Main Terminal having 4 gates. Major airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines use various terminals at CLT.
When navigating the airport terminals, it is important to pay attention to the signs and directions to your gate. The airport also offers a shuttle service that runs between the terminals for passengers who need to transfer between flights. Additionally, there are moving walkways and escalators throughout the airport to make it easier to get around.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates. The map is user-friendly and provides detailed information about each terminal, including the location of restrooms, ATMs, and shops.
Connecting Between Terminals
Charlotte Douglas has six concourses: A, B, C, D, E, and the Main Terminal. To get between the terminals, passengers can use the airport's complimentary shuttle bus service. The shuttle runs every 10 minutes from 5:00 AM to midnight and every 20 minutes from midnight to 5:00 AM. Walking between the terminals is also an option, but depending on the concourse, it can take up to 15 minutes.
For passengers with connecting flights, it's important to note that the Main Terminal is the central hub for all concourses. Passengers can easily access all other concourses from the Main Terminal via the shuttle bus or walking.
Tips from CLT Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Charlotte Douglas International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from CLT-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
"Navigating CLT can be a breeze if you familiarize yourself with the terminal layout. The moving walkways and escalators are lifesavers, especially during peak hours. Make sure to use the interactive map to quickly locate your gate and amenities." — John M., Gastonia, NC, December 2023
"If you're connecting flights, give yourself at least 30 minutes to move between concourses. The shuttle service is efficient, but walking can take longer than expected, especially if you're unfamiliar with the layout." — Priya S., Concord, NC, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The CATS bus is a cost-effective way to get to downtown Charlotte. It’s reliable and only costs $2.20 per ride. Perfect for budget travelers or if you're in no rush." — Carlos G., Huntersville, NC, March 2024
"For a quicker ride, consider using ride-share services. They pick up right outside baggage claim and are generally faster than waiting for a taxi." — Emily R., Matthews, NC, May 2024
Parking
"For short trips, I always use the Hourly Deck. It's right in front of the terminal, which makes it super convenient for quick getaways." — Michael T., Pineville, NC, April 2024
"If you’re going to be away for a while, the Long Term Lots offer the best value. They're a bit further out, but the shuttle service runs frequently and is very convenient." — Linda K., Monroe, NC, June 2024
Inside the Airport
"Don't miss the local BBQ at the food court if you have time. It's a taste of North Carolina right at the airport!" — David L., Kannapolis, NC, July 2024
"The shops in Concourse C have some unique local gifts. I always pick up something from No Boundaries for friends when I travel." — Anika P., Mooresville, NC, August 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check TSA wait times online before heading to the airport. It can save you a lot of stress, especially during busy travel seasons." — Tom H., Rock Hill, SC, September 2024
"If you fly often, consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck. It’s a game changer for reducing waiting times and making your trip more relaxed." — Sarah J., Indian Trail, NC, October 2024
iFly Tip: Explore our Flying Info and Tips page for a collection of essential air travel resources.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At CLT, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the terminal buildings. However, curbside parking is strictly prohibited and vehicles must not be left unattended at any time. Drivers who wish to wait for their passengers should use the cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These areas are free and provide a convenient place to wait for arriving passengers.
Passengers can be picked up and dropped off at any of the airport's six concourses or the main terminal. Each terminal building has its own designated curbside area for passenger drop-off and pick-up. It is important to note that the airport has strict security measures in place, and vehicles may be subject to search at any time. Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for sufficient time to navigate security and check-in procedures.
Parking Facilities & Options
CLT Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit every traveler's needs. There are several parking garages and lots available, including the Hourly Deck, Daily Deck, Long Term Lots, and Curbside Valet.
The Hourly Deck is located directly in front of the terminal and is perfect for short-term parking needs. The Daily Deck is located just a short walk from the terminal and is ideal for those who need to park for a day or two. The Long Term Lots are located a bit further from the terminal but offer a more economical option for longer stays.
For those who are picking up passengers, there are cell phone waiting areas available. These areas are conveniently located near the terminal and offer a place to wait until your party has arrived and is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in all of the parking garages and lots. There are designated spaces located near the elevators and shuttle stops for easy access.
If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available. These lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminal. They are a great option for those who are looking to save money on parking.
Get details about CLT parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their final destination.
- Rental Cars: For those who prefer to rent a car, there are several car rental companies available at the airport. These include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National. The rental car facilities are located on the lower level of the terminal, near the baggage claim area.
- Taxis: If you prefer to take a taxi, there are designated taxi drop-off areas located outside of the baggage claim area. The fares for taxis are based on a metered rate, which includes a $2.50 airport surcharge.
- Ride Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. The pickup areas for these services are located on the curbside of the baggage claim level. Please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage that can be accommodated in a shared ride.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are another option for transportation. These shuttles provide transportation to and from the airport and nearby hotels. The pickup areas for the shuttle service are located on the curbside of the baggage claim level. The fares for the shuttle service vary depending on the destination.
- Public Transportation: For those who prefer public transportation, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) provides bus service to and from the airport. The bus stop is located on the curbside of the baggage claim level. The fare for the bus service is $2.20 per ride.
iFly Tip: Travel comfortably with insights from our guide for overweight passengers.
Airport Hotels
Traveling can be tiring, and finding a comfortable place to rest near the airport can make your journey much smoother. We have compiled a list of excellent hotels located within a few miles of the airport, offering a range of amenities to suit every traveler's needs. From those offering free airport shuttle services to those with fitness centers and swimming pools, there is something for everyone. Many of them are also close to local attractions, so you can easily explore the city during your stay. Discover the best hotel options with our comprehensive guide to Charlotte Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Charlotte Douglas Airport has a wide range of dining options and shopping destinations. From Shake Shack to Phillips Seafood, and from No Boundaries to MAC Cosmetics, there's something for everyone. The airport offers a remarkable assortment of dining options, designed to satiate all taste buds and cater to all types of travelers. Whether you're in the mood for a quick grab-and-go snack or a leisurely meal, there's a culinary adventure waiting for you. CLT Airport is home to a wide variety of shops and stores, offering everything from duty-free items to convenience store essentials. Here are some of the most popular stores located at the airport.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Charlotte Douglas International Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, browse the full directory here.
Passenger Services
Charlotte Douglas is a busy airport located in the United States. The airport offers a range of services to make your travel experience more comfortable and convenient.
Passengers can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. The Wi-Fi network is easy to access and provides fast and reliable internet connection.
If you have lost an item at the airport, you can visit the lost and found office located in the baggage claim area of the main terminal. The office is open 24/7 and you can also call them to report a lost item.
For families traveling with children, the airport has designated play areas in each concourse. These areas are equipped with toys and games to keep children entertained while waiting for their flight.
Charlotte Douglas Airport offers special services for passengers with disabilities or special needs. These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and special boarding assistance. Passengers can request these services at the time of booking or at the airport.
The airport has several ATMs and banking services located throughout the terminals. There are also currency exchange services available for international travelers.
In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a medical clinic located in the main terminal. The clinic is staffed with qualified medical professionals and is open 24/7.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight. At Charlotte Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status.
One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find your flight number on the display and check the status.
Another way to stay informed is through the use of airline mobile phone apps. Most airlines have their own app that allows passengers to check their flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check-in for their flight. These apps can be downloaded for free on the App Store or Google Play.
In addition, passengers can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications from their airline to receive updates on their flight status. This is a convenient way to stay informed, especially if you are not at the airport yet.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at CLT by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
iFly Tip: Expedite your airport experience with tips from our TSA PreCheck Guide.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is located in Charlotte, North Carolina, United States.
- Terminals: The airport features a Main Terminal and five concourses: Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, and Concourse E.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. For a full list of airlines, visit the CLT Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Charlotte Douglas handles approximately 130,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 1,400 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from CLT are Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York-LaGuardia, Chicago-O'Hare, and Philadelphia.
- Hub Status: Charlotte Douglas is a major hub for American Airlines, which operates over 700 daily flights from the airport.
Airport History
CLT Airport is a major airport in the United States located in Charlotte, North Carolina. The airport was established in 1935 as Charlotte Municipal Airport and has since undergone numerous renovations and expansions to become the bustling airport it is today.
Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1935 - Charlotte Municipal Airport is established with a single runway and a small terminal building.
- 1954 - The airport is renamed Douglas Municipal Airport in honor of former Charlotte Mayor Ben Elbert Douglas Sr.
- 1961 - The airport's first jet service begins with Eastern Airlines operating a Douglas DC-8.
- 1982 - The airport is renamed Charlotte Douglas International Airport to reflect its growing importance as an international hub.
- 1991 - The airport opens a new 10-gate concourse, Concourse D, to accommodate increased traffic.
- 2002 - A new 20-gate concourse, Concourse E, opens to serve international flights.
- 2010 - The airport completes a $1.5 billion expansion project, including a new runway, a new terminal building, and a new parking deck.
- 2013 - Charlotte Douglas International Airport becomes the 6th busiest airport in the world in terms of aircraft movements.
Today, Charlotte Douglas International Airport serves over 46 million passengers annually and is a major hub for American Airlines.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Charlotte Douglas International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: CLT
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 704-359-4013
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Charlotte Douglas International Airport, 5501 Josh Birmingham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28208, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Charlotte Douglas Airport Q&A
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