Special Needs at CLT Airport

Coordination with Your Airline

It is crucial to contact your airline in advance (ideally 48 hours before your flight) to request services such as wheelchair assistance, escort for connections, or other accommodations. Airlines are responsible for these services.

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): When coordination is successful, airline assistance is crucial and well-received.
• 💡 Traveler Tip: Many recommend arriving well in advance (3 hours for domestic flights, 3.5 for international) to manage these services without rush, especially during peak hours, as waits or the need to remind staff of the request have been reported.

Assistance at Security Checkpoints (TSA Cares)

Inform security agents about any disability, medical condition, or special equipment that cannot go through X-ray scanners. TSA Cares offers a helpline to request special assistance.

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): Many users report that TSA staff at CLT are usually patient and understanding of special needs.
• ❌ User Perspective (Challenges): During high traffic periods, delays at checkpoints can occur even with scheduled assistance. Clear communication and patience are key.

Information and Emergency Points at the Airport

CLT has bright blue call stations in the Hourly, Daily, and Express Decks parking areas for emergencies (red button) or non-urgent assistance (black button). TTY/TDD services are available by calling Tel +1 704 359 4030 or by visiting the Airport Services desk and the Visitor Information Center.

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): These stations are valued for their ease of use and for providing a quick point of contact for assistance.

Accessible and Family Restrooms

All restrooms at CLT are fully accessible. Family restrooms are conveniently located at multiple points (near gates A6, A24, A32, B4, C7, D5, E5, E15, E34; Concourse A connector; The Plaza; United ticket counter; Arrivals/Baggage Claim areas B and E).

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): The availability and location of these restrooms are highly appreciated, especially by families and individuals requiring more space or privacy.
• ❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Given the high demand, some suggest there could be more units or more frequent maintenance during peak hours.

Service Animal Relief Areas

CLT provides service animal relief areas both post-security (Concourse A connector; D/E concourse corridor; near gate E36) and pre-security (level 1, baggage claim, by door 4 and behind carousel 3).

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): The existence of these areas is fundamental and highly valued by service animal owners.
• ❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Some users suggest that cleaning could be more frequent, especially in busier areas and during peak hours.

Parking for Passengers with Disabilities

Accessible parking is available in all CLT decks and lots, with accessible shuttles operating continuously. For assistance, call Tel +1 704 359 4038.

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): The overall efficiency of the service is praised. The 15 minutes of free parking in the Hourly Deck is particularly useful for assisting passengers with disabilities into the terminal.
• ❌ User Perspective (Challenges): Although spaces exist, signage to find them could be clearer in some areas, according to some comments.

Aira On-Demand Visual Assistance

Aira is a free service at CLT that provides real-time visual interpretation for blind or low-vision passengers through trained agents using the user's phone camera.

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): This service is highly valued for the independence and safety it provides to users, facilitating navigation through the airport.

Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program

Since June 2021, CLT has participated in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program. Passengers can request free Sunflower-branded items (like a lanyard) to discreetly indicate they may need additional assistance, more time, or understanding due to a non-visible disability.

• ✅ User Perspective (Positive): Passengers with conditions such as autism, chronic pain, or anxiety find that this initiative fosters greater understanding from staff and other travelers, allowing them to travel with more confidence and less stress.

For more information, visit the Sunflower Program page.