How to Navigate Charlotte Douglas International Airport Inside & Out
CLT Airport Guide
The Charlotte Douglas International Airport may not get as much attention as other major travel hubs, but it serves over 50 million passengers each year.
If you have questions about how to navigate the Charlotte airport—perhaps anticipating a short layover or your first trip through the airport—this guide covers how to get around inside and outside at CLT.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport Quick Facts
Official name: Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Official website: https://www.cltairport.com
Airport code: CLT, an abbreviation for the city of Charlotte
Airport history: It opened in 1936 as Charlotte Municipal Airport and was later renamed Douglas Municipal Airport in 1954. It wouldn’t get its current name until 1982, when it expanded to a new airline model to accommodate more passengers.
Number of terminals: One terminal with five concourses
Tricks to Navigating CLT
- This airport is a smoke-free facility, so passengers who smoke will need to head outside to find designated smoking areas.
- While the Charlotte Douglas International Airport is busy, there are no trams or shuttles connecting concourses. Bring your best walking shoes!
- Download the official airport app to help you stay on top of real-time updates or general information, like flight delays and nearby road closures.
Outside the Terminal
The Charlotte Douglas International Airport is located on the west side of the Charlotte metro area, just south of I-85 and inside the I-485 loop. Driving on these major thoroughfares is the easiest way to reach CLT.
Departure drop-offs occur on the upper floor, with arrivals on the ground floor; signs will point you in the right direction as you approach the airport.
You’ll find a number of gas stations, fast food restaurants, and convenience stores in the general vicinity. If you need to grab a quick bite or fill up your tank before or after leaving the airport, there are ample opportunities to do so.
Car rentals are all handled at the airport’s Rental Car Facility. Follow signs from the baggage claim area through the Lower Level Walkway and take an elevator to the Level 2 Lobby, where you’ll find rental car counters and agents to assist you. Cars are kept just outside this lobby.
Outside the Terminal
The Charlotte airport layout is extremely easy to navigate, especially compared to other international airports. Each of its five concourses is within walking distance of the others.
CLT airport has three security checkpoints to accommodate travelers. Feel free to use any of them—you’ll be able to walk to your gate no matter which checkpoint you choose.
How to Change Terminals at CLT
You won’t need to walk between terminals at Charlotte Douglas Airport because the airport has just one terminal, which serves five different concourses. These concourses are designed for pedestrian travel and are easy to walk between.
No, the Charlotte Douglas International Airport doesn’t have trains or shuttles to move passengers. The concourses are connected to each other, so there’s no need for additional transportation methods.
Hidden Gems at Charlotte Douglas International Airport
- One of the best things to do at the Charlotte airport is to get a little artistic inspiration for your travel album. Each concourse is brimming with original murals and installations.
- The Charlotte Douglas International Airport has plenty of places to eat once you land. You can go for American fare or enjoy a number of international cuisines at various restaurants, bakeries, and markets.
- Keep an eye out for the airport’s signature rocking chairs, scattered throughout the concourses, offering a uniquely Southern way to relax while you wait for your flight.
Beyond the Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Super long layover? Grab a Charlotte rental car from Avis and do a little exploring! Our Leisure Traveler Guide and Business Trip Guide both have suggestions for what to do in the area, but if you’re looking for something close to the airport, the Sullenberger Aviation Museum is actually right next door.
It features over 40 aircraft for guests to explore. Don’t miss the exhibit about the Miracle on the Hudson. The museum was actually renamed to honor Captain “Sully” Sullenberger, who piloted that flight to safety. The museum is an engaging nearby diversion—and it’s on brand for your day of flying.
Rent a Car at CLT from Avis
Want to move around Charlotte or its surrounding area more easily? Rent a car with Avis to enjoy ongoing discounts, fast booking, and a wide selection of modern vehicles.
Book a CLT Car Rental