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.
Frequent Flier Tips
To help make your experience at Charlottesville Albemarle Airport (CHO) 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
"CHO is a small airport with just one terminal, which makes navigation quite straightforward. However, it can get crowded during peak hours, so I recommend arriving early to avoid the rush." — John D., Charlottesville, VA, August 2023
"The security lines at CHO are generally short, but if you're in a hurry, use the TSA PreCheck lane to speed things up. It's a real time-saver!" — Emily R., Crozet, VA, July 2023
Getting To/From the City
"If you're heading to downtown Charlottesville, the best option is to take a taxi or rideshare service. It's only about a 15-minute drive, and you'll avoid the hassle of parking." — Michael K., Keswick, VA, September 2023
"For those on a budget, the JAUNT bus service is a great alternative. It’s reliable and much cheaper than a taxi." — Lisa T., Earlysville, VA, October 2023
Parking
"The long-term parking lot at CHO is conveniently located just a short walk from the terminal. If you're planning to park for more than a day, this is your best bet." — David S., Hollymead, VA, November 2023
"For short trips, the hourly parking lot is perfect. It's right next to the terminal, so you won't have to lug your bags far." — Anna B., Ivy, VA, December 2023
Inside the Airport
"There's a nice little café inside CHO that serves great coffee and snacks. It's a good spot to relax if you have some time before your flight." — Jessica M., North Garden, VA, January 2024
"The airport has a small but decent selection of shops where you can pick up last-minute travel essentials or souvenirs." — Robert H., Ruckersville, VA, February 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Check the flight status boards frequently, as weather can cause unexpected delays. The airport staff are usually very helpful if you need assistance." — Karen W., Lake Monticello, VA, March 2024
"If you have a tight connection, inform the flight attendants as soon as you board. They can sometimes help expedite your transfer." — Mark L., Gordonsville, VA, April 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).
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Charlottesville Albemarle Airport Q&A
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