Frequently Asked Questions at Charlotte-Douglas Airport (CLT)

The cheapest option is the public bus CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System). Route 5 (Sprinter) connects the airport with the Charlotte Transportation Center (Uptown) for a fare of just USD 2.20. Buses depart from outside baggage claim area D.

App-based ride services such as Uber and Lyft pick up passengers on the Departures Level (Ticketing), along the inner curb lanes (Zones 1–3).

Traditional taxis, on the other hand, are located curbside on the Arrivals Level (Baggage Claim), staffed by an attendant from 6:45 am to 12:15 am.

Taxi note: User experiences with taxis at CLT vary widely, with frequent reports of high fares, poorly maintained vehicles, and lack of professionalism. Consider comparing with ride-share apps. MORE DETAILS HERE.

Yes, the airport offers free and unlimited internet access via the “CLT Free WiFi” network. No password is required, although you must accept the terms and conditions on the landing page. If you have trouble connecting, try opening a new browser window and accessing a website, or refreshing your browser. Connection stability may vary in very crowded areas.

The main (and only) way to move between concourses and within the secure area (post-security) is on foot. The airport is fully connected once you pass through security. Distances can be significant, especially if you are traveling from one end to the other (e.g., Concourse A to E). Users report that walking between the farthest points can take 15 to 30 minutes or more, depending on your pace and crowd levels.

CLT does not have internal trains or moving walkways in all extended areas, which is a common complaint. If you need mobility assistance (wheelchair service), you must request it in advance directly from your airline. SEE MORE.

Lost Items at the Airport (common areas, security): CLT’s Lost & Found office is located at the Welcome Center (Level 1, Baggage Claim area, Zone 4). It operates from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. You can file an online Lost Item Report.

• On the Aircraft or Boarding Area: Contact your airline directly. They are responsible for items left on their aircraft or at their gates.
• Lost or Damaged Checked Baggage: Report it immediately to your airline at their baggage service counters in the arrivals area.
• In Restaurants or Food Courts: Contact HMSHost at [email protected].
• In Shops: Contact The Paradies Shops by emailing [email protected].

Currently, CLT Airport does not offer an on-site luggage storage or left-luggage service. However, private companies such as Bounce and Stasher provide storage services at locations near the airport or in the city, which can be booked online.

Yes, there are two main options:

• Cell Phone Lot: A free waiting area for drivers picking up passengers. You must remain with your vehicle. Once your passengers arrive and have their luggage, they can call you to proceed to the lower terminal level (Arrivals/Baggage Claim) to pick them up.
• Hourly Deck: The first 15 minutes of parking are free, which is ideal for quickly dropping off or picking up passengers if you do not need to wait long.

Yes, iStore shops inside the airport usually sell SIM cards for travelers. They are located on Level 2 (Departures), in the A Connector and Concourses C and D. It is recommended to check opening hours, which are typically from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, but may vary.

Yes, the main terminal and concourses at CLT Airport are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, it is important to note:

• TSA security checkpoints have specific operating hours that vary by day and scheduled flights. They generally open very early (around 3:30 am–4:00 am) and close late at night (around 9:00 pm–10:45 pm). Check the official CLT page for updated checkpoint hours.
• Most dining options and shops, as well as VIP lounges, do not operate 24 hours and have limited hours, especially overnight. There are only a few 24/7 food options available.

CLT offers several amenities:

• Dining and Shopping: Explore available options, keeping in mind that quality and service can be inconsistent and hours limited outside peak operating times.
• VIP Lounges: If you have access (via membership, credit card, or paid entry where available), lounges such as American Airlines Admirals Club or The Centurion Lounge offer a more comfortable space with food, drinks, and more reliable Wi-Fi.
• Minute Suites: Located in the main atrium and the D/E Connector, they offer private rooms for rest or work (for a fee). Some include showers. They are open 24 hours, and access may be available with Priority Pass (check conditions).
• Other Amenities: Rocking chairs, charging stations, nursing rooms, a children’s play area, and a chapel.
• Nearby Hotels: For very long or overnight layovers, there are many hotels with airport shuttle service. Some options include Home2Suites by Hilton, Hampton Inn & Suites, Courtyard Charlotte Airport North, etc. Search and book hotels near CLT here.

CLT offers a range of services, including:

• A variety of dining options (restaurants, fast food, cafés), though quality and service can be inconsistent.
• Multiple shops (duty-free, souvenirs, convenience).
• VIP lounges with different access levels and services.
• Nursing Rooms with privacy for breastfeeding and diaper changes.
• Charging stations for electronic devices.
• A children's play area.
• Free Wi-Fi.
• Assistance services for passengers with special needs (coordinate with your airline).
• Multiple parking options.

CLT is committed to accessibility. Key services include:

• Wheelchair Assistance: Must be requested directly from your airline at least 48 hours in advance.
• Accessible Facilities: Accessible restrooms, ramps, elevators, and parking are available.
• TSA Cares: For special assistance during security screening, you can contact TSA Cares in advance.
• Sunflower Program: For passengers with hidden disabilities.
• Aira: Visual assistance service for blind or low-vision passengers.

For more details, visit the Passengers with Special Needs section.

CLT offers several parking options: hourly (Hourly Deck with 15 free minutes), daily (Daily Decks, Daily North Lot), and long-term (Long Term Lots, Express Decks), as well as Valet. Shuttle services operate 24 hours between parking facilities and the terminal. Booking online is highly recommended. Check the CLT parking page for current rates and more information.

As in any busy place, stay aware of your surroundings and belongings. Use only authorized transportation services and taxis. Do not leave valuables unattended, and consider keeping them in your carry-on bag. Be cautious of unsolicited help from strangers that seems suspicious. For more tips, visit the airport’s theft and scam prevention page.

The car rental experience at CLT varies greatly by company.

• Generally Positive: National and Alamo (especially with loyalty programs or "skip the counter") often receive good reviews for efficiency and service. Enterprise also has many positive mentions for staff friendliness.
• Mostly Negative or Mixed: Avis, Budget, and Dollar accumulate numerous complaints for long waits, lack of vehicles, poor vehicle condition, unexpected charges, and aggressive sales tactics. Hertz has mixed experiences.

Recommendation: Book in advance, consider joining loyalty programs, read recent reviews for the specific company at CLT, and thoroughly document the vehicle's condition before and after rental.

Baggage handling is one of the most consistently criticized aspects of CLT, especially in relation to American Airlines. Frequent reports include:

• Significant delays in baggage delivery at the carousels.
• Bags damaged during transit.
• Cases of lost baggage or bags sent to the wrong destination.

Recommendation: Travel with carry-on luggage whenever possible for essential and valuable items. If you check bags, consider using luggage trackers (such as AirTags) and make sure your bags are clearly labeled. Report any issues immediately to your airline.

Perceptions of cleanliness at CLT are mixed. While the airport makes maintenance efforts, the high passenger volume can mean that some areas—especially restrooms and certain waiting areas or food courts—are not always in the best condition, particularly during peak hours. Some users have reported poorly maintained restrooms or common areas that could be improved.