Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) Guide
Charlotte Airport, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the busiest airports in the United States. With its convenient location and numerous amenities, it's no wonder why travelers choose CLT as their departure or arrival point. Whether you're a first-time flyer or a seasoned traveler, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make your journey through CLT Airport a breeze.
If you're flying in or out of the airport, this comprehensive guide has got you covered. From flight status and tracking to airline departure terminals and gate locations, parking options, terminal maps, and food and shopping directories, you'll find everything you need to know to get from your door to your gate with ease.
Helpful Tips
When to Arrive
It is recommended that passengers arrive at Charlotte Douglas at least 2 hours before their scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours before for international flights. The busiest times to avoid are weekdays from 6:00am to 9:00am and 4:00pm to 7:00pm, as well as weekends during peak travel seasons.
Getting to the Airport
Charlotte Douglas Airport is conveniently located 7 miles west of downtown Charlotte, North Carolina. Passengers can get to the airport by car, taxi, or public transportation. The airport offers on-site parking options including hourly, daily, and long-term parking. Passengers can also take advantage of ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft, or public transportation options including the CATS bus and light rail system.
Getting Oriented
Passengers can use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented at Charlotte Airport. These maps provide detailed information about the airport's terminals, gates, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. Passengers can also use the airport's free Wi-Fi to access the airport's website and mobile app for real-time flight information and updates.
Avoiding Delays
To avoid delays at CLT, passengers should check the status of their flight before arriving at the airport and sign up for flight alerts. Passengers should also pack their bags appropriately and arrive at security checkpoints prepared to go through the screening process quickly. Additionally, passengers should be aware of the airport's rules and regulations regarding liquids, electronics, and other items that are not allowed on board the aircraft.
Security Wait Times
At CLT Airport, TSA Security wait times can vary depending on the time of day and the season. During peak travel times, such as holidays and weekends, wait times can be longer than usual. However, the airport has implemented several measures to help reduce wait times, including the use of automated screening lanes and TSA PreCheck. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow for enough time to get through security. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.
Maps, Airlines & Amenities
Charlotte Douglas Airport (CLT) Terminals
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.
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.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Charlotte Airport, 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 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
CLT Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their final destination.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Passenger Services
The airport 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 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 Douglas 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 Charlotte 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
CLT, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, is one of the busiest airports in the United States. It serves as a major hub for American Airlines, and is the second largest hub for the airline after Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport. The airport has a total of six terminals, including Concourse A, Concourse B, Concourse C, Concourse D, Concourse E, and the Main Terminal.
On average, CLT Airport handles around 1,400 daily flights, with an average of 130,000 passengers passing through the airport each day. The airport serves over 180 destinations worldwide, with nonstop flights to major cities across the United States, as well as international destinations in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe.
Some of the top airlines with the most daily flights at the airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. American Airlines, which uses Charlotte Douglas as a major hub, operates over 700 daily flights from the airport, making it the largest carrier at the airport. Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines also operate a significant number of daily flights from the airport.
The top five destinations served by Charlotte Douglas include Atlanta, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York-LaGuardia, Chicago-O'Hare, and Philadelphia. These destinations are all major hubs for American Airlines, which offers nonstop flights to these cities from Charlotte Douglas Airport.
Other airlines that use Charlotte Airport as a hub include regional carriers like PSA Airlines and Piedmont Airlines, both of which are owned by American Airlines. Additionally, low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines has recently arrived at the airport.
Airport History
CLT 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 Info
- Website: https://www.cltairport.com/
- Phone: (704) 359-4013
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: 5501 Josh Birmingham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28208
Traveler Help
My flight was Friday from Charlotte to Chattanooga. One of my suitcases has still not arrived in Chattanooga and it still hasn’t been scammed so I have no way of tracking it. Please help! I’m diabetic and I need my insulin.
Asked by Jamal - Sun, 23 October
You will need to contact the airline directly for any lost luggage.
What is the telephone number for Delta baggage at CLT?
Asked by Len - Wed, 28 September
You can contact Delta Airlines at 1-800-221-1212.
How long does it take to walk from Concourse E to Concourse B?
Asked by Marcy - Tue, 27 September
It should take around 15-20 minutes to talk from Concourse E to Concourse B.
Where to park to wait for pick up of incoming flight?
Asked by Barbara M Miller - Sat, 17 September
There are a couple of options including parking at the Hourly Deck (free for the first 15 minutes) or you can use the free Cell Phone Lot.
How do I get in touch with baggage claims for lost luggage update?
Asked by Cynthia Smith - Wed, 14 September
You can contact your airlines directly with any baggage claim questions.
Is there a smoking room in airport?
Asked by Cfb - Thu, 8 September
No, there is no smoking in the airport.
Where is Western Union located?
Asked by Candi - Sat, 27 August
We did not find a Western Union branch at this airport.
I have a friend arriving by Delta, I'm figuring Concourse A, where can I meet him inside?
Asked by Jill - Sun, 14 August
The main terminal would be the best place to meet.
What is the telephone for the airport's baggage service office?
Asked by doug shouse - Mon, 8 August
You will need to contact the airline that you used directly for baggage service.
Where can I print travel documents?
Asked by Aaron Cowell - Sun, 26 June
There is not a printer at CLT. They recommend that you either print your documents before you arrive at the airport or use the mobile ticket option from your smartphone.
What is the phone number for American Airlines baggage claim?
Asked by Cyndy - Thu, 16 June
American Airlines requests that if you have a baggage claim that you contact the CLT Airport's lost and found department directly at 704-359-8765.
Where are the lounges?
Asked by Paul - Tue, 31 May
There is a lounge on Level 3 in the Mezzanine and a USO Lounge in the Atrium.
What gate does American Airlines flight from Myrtle beach come in at and what gate does Fort Myers, Fl leave out of on American?
Asked by Janice MCGINNIS - Sun, 15 May
American Airlines operates out of Concourse B at this airport. However, we recommend you check with your airline directly about exact gates, as these can change from day to day.
On Thursday around 2 p.m. I will be picking up 2 relatives (a United flight from Chicago). Will I be able to wait briefly outside the terminal for them to find my car or will I have to park in a lot?
Asked by Ann Milligan - Tue, 19 April
The curbside should only be used for immediate pick-ups and drop-offs. We'd recommend utilizing the free Cell Phone Parking Lot until your passengers are at Baggage Claim.
Delayed baggage from Lufthansa flight yesterday.
Asked by Promilla Batra - Sat, 2 April
Please contact your airline directly about lost or delayed luggage.
Is there a specific parking lot for cell phone users? Friends are arriving at CLT and will contact us upon landing so we can drive them to their hotel.
Asked by Susan - Sat, 2 April
Yes, there is a Cell Phone Parking Lot where you can wait. It's located on Josh Birmingham Parkway to the right, next to Long Term Lot 1. The entrance to the Cell Phone Lot is slightly north of the entrance of Long Term Lot 1.
I have a 40-minute connection time between gates in the middles of Concourses A and C. Can I make it?
Asked by Melodee - Sat, 19 March
We recommend asking your airline(s) about this. It really depends on where your gates are located and in your first flight experiences any delays. Good luck!
Where is the Centurion Lounge?
Asked by william - Tue, 15 March
The Centurion Lounge can be found at the intersection of Concourses D & E, mezzanine level. It's accessible to all gates at CLT and is open 7 am - 8 pm
Will the Chapel have anyone distributing ashes on March 2, 2022 for Ash Wednesday?
Asked by Susan Taylor - Tue, 1 March
This airport has an Airport Chapel that offers Catholic Mass on Sundays at 8:30am and 10:30am. You can contact them at 704-351-3208 to inquire about Ash Wednesday.
My flight lands at midnight and leaves a 7am, are there cots available or somewhere to sleep other than the minute suites?
Asked by Joie - Tue, 25 January
There are Minute Suites available to rent by the hour. Also the Hampton Inn & Suites Charlotte Airport and the Holiday Inn Charlotte Airport have free shuttles to and from the airport. However, there are no free cots available to sleep in.
How do I get from one terminal to another (E to A)? Is there an internal shuttle or mode of transportation other than walking?
Asked by Maryanne Tocidlowski - Thu, 13 January
All terminals are accessible from the main terminal and each other. The only way to get between concourses is to walk — there are no trains or electronic people movers. It's a pretty small airport so the walk should be short.
Curbside bag check
Asked by Ella - Mon, 27 December
Curbside check-in availability varies from airline to airline. We suggest contacting your airline directly to see if they offer it.
Is there COVID testing?
Asked by Michael - Tue, 21 December
This airport does not currently offer COVID testing.
Is there shuttle service from one terminal to another?
Asked by Frederick Shearer - Sun, 28 November
There are no trams or shuttles connecting from one terminal or concourse to another. All concourses and gates are in the same building(s) and accessible from all security checkpoints.
My bag did not get on my flight to Indianapolis yesterday.
Asked by Ann Stuber - Thu, 25 November
Please contact your airline directly regarding and lost luggage. Best of luck!
How do you get to the concourse from parking?
Asked by John Morse - Wed, 24 November
You are easily able to walk to the concourse. However, accessible shuttles run continuously.
Can you smoke at CLT?
Asked by cass - Sun, 21 November
There is no smoking allowed inside the CLT Airport. You can smoke outside as long as you are over 100 feet from any doorway.
Where are the elevators located in the airport?
Asked by Marilyn Hankins - Wed, 17 November
CLT's interactive map can show you were every elevator is in the airport.
Where can I find a map of CLT Airport?
Asked by June - Tue, 16 November
I am arriving from ORD - connecting through CLT - final destination is PUJ (Punta Cana, Dominican Republic) on AA.Will my connecting departing flight be in terminal B or, other?
Asked by CC - Mon, 15 November
Concourse D is used for international flights and your flight is likely to depart from there. The last flight using these city pairs left from Gate D11. Check the board when you arrive at the airport to verify your departure gate. Safe travels.
Where can I get an escort pass?
Asked by amy - Mon, 15 November
You can get an escort pass from the airline of the traveler you are escorting. Just go to the ticketing desk. Note that each airline has different policies for dealing with such passes.
I have an interview for my TSA Global Entry pass. Where are their offices?
Asked by Ed Tisdale - Tue, 21 September
For interviews, proceed to the north end of the Baggage Claim area (Zone E - in front of the Badging Office) where you will see the sign - “Arriving International Passenger – Do not Enter.” Disregard the sign and walk up the large hall to where you will see a sign that reads, “Global Entry Interviews." Hope this helps.