Overview of Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is a major airport located in Charlotte, North Carolina. It is owned by the city of Charlotte and serves as a hub for American Airlines. The airport is the second busiest airport on the East Coast and the sixth busiest airport in the United States.
CLT has a total of five runways and one terminal building with five concourses. The airport handles over 46 million passengers annually and offers nonstop flights to over 170 destinations around the world.
In addition to passenger flights, CLT is also a major cargo hub, serving as a gateway for freight shipments throughout the southeastern United States. The airport has several cargo facilities, including the FedEx Express Southeastern Hub and the UPS Airlines Global Operations Center.
Despite its large size and high volume of traffic, CLT is known for its efficiency and ease of use. The airport has won numerous awards for customer service, including being named the “Best Large Airport” in North America by Airports Council International in 2010 and 2013.
Overall, Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a vital transportation hub for the southeastern United States, offering a wide range of flights and services to both passengers and cargo customers.
Terminals at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport has one main terminal building, which consists of five concourses (A-E) and 116 gates. The terminal connects to all major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, among others.
Each concourse is designed with various amenities, such as retail stores, restaurants, and charging stations. Concourse A has 21 gates and primarily serves American Airlines flights, while Concourse B has 16 gates and serves both American and Delta Air Lines flights.
Concourse C has 18 gates and serves American Airlines, while Concourse D has 13 gates and serves Delta Air Lines. Lastly, Concourse E has 23 gates and serves mostly international flights, with airlines such as Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air Canada.
The airport also offers a variety of lounges, including the American Airlines Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club, and The Club at CLT. These lounges offer a comfortable and relaxing environment for travelers to rest, work, or enjoy complimentary snacks and beverages.
There are several ways to travel between the terminals, including a complimentary shuttle service that runs every few minutes, moving walkways, and a skywalk that connects Concourse A to the main terminal.
Overall, Charlotte Douglas International Airport’s terminals offer a wide range of amenities and services for travelers, making it a convenient and enjoyable experience for all.
Airlines and Destinations
American Airlines: Domestic destinations include Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, San Francisco, Washington D.C. International destinations include Cancun, London, Madrid, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and Tokyo.
Delta Air Lines: Domestic destinations include Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Seattle, and Washington D.C. International destinations include Amsterdam, Cancun, London, Paris, Punta Cana, and Rome.
Frontier Airlines: Domestic destinations include Denver, Las Vegas, Miami, Orlando, and Philadelphia.
Southwest Airlines: Domestic destinations include Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Nashville, New Orleans, Orlando, Phoenix, and Tampa.
United Airlines: Domestic destinations include Chicago, Denver, Houston, Newark, San Francisco, and Washington D.C. International destinations include Cancun and London.
Seasonal changes may occur and new destinations may be added, so it is always best to check with individual airlines for the most up-to-date information on their routes and schedules.
Transportation Options at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving over 50 million passengers annually. The airport offers a variety of transportation options to help travelers get to and from their destinations efficiently.
One of the most convenient transportation options at CLT is the shuttle service. Several companies provide shuttle services from the airport to various locations in and around Charlotte. These services are available 24/7 and can be booked in advance or on the spot. Shuttle services are ideal for individuals or groups who want to travel together and avoid the hassle of public transportation.
Another popular option for travelers is renting a car. The airport has a variety of car rental companies located in the Rental Car Facility, which is accessible by shuttle from the terminal. Passengers can reserve a car online or at the rental counter upon arrival. Renting a car gives travelers the flexibility to explore the city and surrounding areas at their own pace.
For those who prefer public transportation, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) operates a shuttle bus service called Sprinter that connects CLT to the city’s light rail system. The Sprinter bus runs every 20 minutes and takes passengers to the CATS LYNX Blue Line station, where they can connect to other parts of the city. Alternatively, passengers can take the CATS Gold Line streetcar, which runs through Uptown Charlotte and connects to the Blue Line.
Travelers can also use Amtrak train lines to access the airport. The Amtrak Station is located just two miles from the airport and offers daily train services to various destinations across the country. Passengers can take a taxi or ride-share service from the station to the airport.
In addition to these transportation options, there are also several ride-share services available at CLT, including Uber and Lyft. These services are accessible from the terminal and are a convenient option for individuals or groups who want to travel directly to their destination.
Overall, CLT offers a variety of transportation options that cater to the needs of all travelers. Whether you prefer private or public transportation, there is an option available that will help you get to your destination efficiently and comfortably.
Parking options at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Charlotte Douglas International Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are five parking decks, two parking lots, and an economy lot located near the airport. The hourly parking rates for the decks and lots vary from $7 to $20 depending on the distance from the terminal.
For those who need long-term parking, the daily rate for the long-term lots ranges from $5 to $10 per day. Shuttle service is available from the economy lot to the terminal every 15 minutes, and the daily rate for this lot is $7.
If you prefer a more convenient option, the curbside valet parking is available for $35 per day. This option allows you to drop off your car at the terminal’s curb, and a valet attendant will park the car for you.
Lastly, Charlotte Douglas International Airport also offers a Cell Phone Lot for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers. This lot is free of charge, and it is located near the airport’s entrance.
No matter what your parking needs are, Charlotte Douglas International Airport has plenty of options to choose from, ensuring a hassle-free parking experience for travelers.
Check-In Procedures
Charlotte Douglas International Airport offers multiple check-in options for passengers to choose from. Online check-in is available 24 hours before the flight departure time and can be done through the airline’s website or mobile app. Passengers can select their preferred seats, pay for any additional baggage, and print their boarding pass at home.
Self-service kiosks are also available in the airport terminal for those who prefer a more traditional check-in experience. These kiosks allow passengers to check-in, select seats, and print their boarding pass. The self-service kiosks are located throughout the terminal and are easily accessible.
For those who prefer a more personal touch, traditional check-in counters are also available. These counters are staffed by airline employees who can assist with any questions or concerns about the flight. Passengers can check-in, drop off any luggage, and receive their boarding pass from the counter agent.
It is recommended that passengers arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow enough time for the check-in process, security screening, and any other necessary procedures. Charlotte Douglas International Airport strives to provide a seamless check-in experience for all passengers, regardless of their preferred method.
Security Procedures and Tips at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
To ensure safety and security at the airport, passengers are required to go through security screening. This includes a bag scan, metal detector, and body scan.
To make the process smoother, be sure to follow the TSA guidelines for liquids, gels, and electronics in carry-on luggage. Also, wear shoes that are easy to slip off and remove any outerwear or large jewelry before going through the metal detector.
Lastly, always be aware of your surroundings and report any suspicious behavior or packages to airport security personnel. By following these procedures and tips, you can have a stress-free travel experience at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
Customs and Immigration Process at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
For arriving passengers, after disembarking from the aircraft, they will proceed to the customs area to present their travel documents. Those who have items to declare will need to show them to a customs officer. After clearing customs, passengers can then retrieve their baggage and exit the terminal.
Departing passengers will need to present their travel documents to an immigration officer before proceeding to the security checkpoint. Those who are leaving the country permanently or for an extended period of time must complete an exit interview with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight to allow ample time for these processes.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines, including fast food, sit-down dining, and grab-and-go options.
- Duty-free shops selling liquor, tobacco, perfumes, and other luxury goods.
- Retail stores selling books, magazines, clothing, electronics, and souvenirs.
- ATMs, currency exchange, and banking services available for passenger convenience.
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport for travelers to stay connected.
- Traveler assistance services, including baggage assistance and lost and found.
- Conference rooms and business centers for meetings and work sessions.
Accessibility Services
Charlotte Douglas International Airport offers a variety of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These include accessible parking spaces, wheelchair assistance, and visual paging systems for the hearing impaired.
The airport also provides accessible restrooms, elevators, and escalators, as well as TTY telephones and closed captioning on all TV monitors. Passengers can request assistance in navigating the airport or boarding their flights by contacting the airport’s customer service department.
Additionally, service animals are allowed throughout the airport, and TSA pre-check is available for travelers with disabilities or medical conditions. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is committed to providing a comfortable and accommodating travel experience for all its passengers.
Connecting Flights at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Connecting flights at Charlotte Douglas International Airport require passengers to navigate the complex airport layout and security procedures efficiently.
Upon arrival, follow the signs to your connecting gate and use the overhead screens or mobile app to check for updated flight information. If you are unsure of where to go, stop by the information desks or ask airport staff for guidance.
Be mindful of time constraints and plan your route accordingly. Consider using the airport’s shuttle service to move quickly between terminals and gates.
Always allow plenty of time for security screenings, especially if you have to change terminals. Remember to take off your shoes and remove liquids and electronics from your carry-on bags to speed up the process.
If you do miss your connecting flight, do not panic. Approach the airline’s customer service desk for assistance and be prepared to discuss alternative travel options. With some planning and preparation, connecting flights at Charlotte Douglas International Airport can be stress-free and enjoyable.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After arriving at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, passengers can proceed to the baggage claim area.
There, they will find monitors that display the carousel number for their flight’s luggage.
Once passengers have identified the correct carousel, they can wait for their bags to arrive.
If a passenger’s luggage has been lost or damaged during the flight, they should report it to the airline’s baggage service center before leaving the airport.
The airline staff will assist with filing a formal report and provide instructions on what steps to take next.
If a passenger realizes they have left an item on the plane or in the airport, they should contact the airport’s lost and found office.
The lost and found office will provide information on how to recover the lost item or file a report if the item is not found.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
Charlotte Douglas International Airport has emergency procedures in place in case of any medical emergencies. In such a situation, the airport’s medical staff will provide immediate medical assistance. They can also help with oxygen, Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs), and other emergency medical equipment.
There are several medical facilities available at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport as well. The airport has a fully equipped first aid station located on Concourse A, near the USO Lounge. Additionally, there is a pharmacy located on the atrium level of the main terminal building.
Passengers with special medical needs should contact their airlines in advance to request assistance. Charlotte Douglas International Airport also provides special assistance to passengers with disabilities or mobility issues, including wheelchair assistance.
Hotel Accommodations
If you need a place to stay near Charlotte Douglas International Airport, there are several hotel options available. Some hotels that are within a short distance from the airport include Hyatt Place Charlotte Airport/Tyvola Road (2 miles), Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Charlotte Airport (3 miles), Crowne Plaza Charlotte Executive Park (3.3 miles), Hilton Garden Inn Charlotte Airport (3.3 miles), and Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Charlotte I-85 Airport, NC (3.4 miles).
All of these hotels offer amenities such as free Wi-Fi, complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, fitness centers, and on-site dining options. They are also conveniently located near popular attractions and shopping centers. Whether you’re in town for business or leisure, you’re sure to find a comfortable and convenient stay at one of these top-rated hotels near Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
Useful Tips:
As one of the busiest airports in the US, Charlotte Douglas International Airport can be overwhelming for first-time visitors.
But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with insider tips to make your airport experience stress-free and enjoyable.
Firstly, arrive at least two hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in, security, and boarding.
Consider downloading the CLT Airport app to stay updated on flight statuses and gate changes.
If you have a layover, take advantage of the comfortable seating areas, shops, and restaurants throughout the airport.
Make sure to also explore the public art installations and exhibitions that showcase the local culture.
Finally, if you have time before your flight, take a stroll through The Plaza, a pedestrian walkway that connects the terminal to the parking decks and offers stunning views of the runway.
Contact Information
Airport Information Center: 704-359-4910
Lost and Found: 704-359-8765
Parking Services: 704-359-4038
Security Wait Times: 1-866-864-8477
Airline Contacts: Visit https://www.cltairport.com/passenger-info/airlines for a list of airline phone numbers.
Airports Near Charlotte Douglas International Airport
There are several airports within a reasonable distance of Charlotte Douglas International Airport:
- Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) – approximately 94 miles away. Transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services.
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) – approximately 136 miles away. Transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services.
- Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) – approximately 93 miles away. Transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services.
- Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) – approximately 86 miles away. Transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and shuttle services.
Keep in mind that travel times to these airports may vary depending on traffic and other factors. It is always best to plan ahead and leave plenty of time to arrive at your destination.