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GUIDE: CLT / Charlotte Douglas Airport - MCT, Connection, etc.

Old Oct 10, 2013, 10:57 am
FlyerTalk Forums Expert How-Tos and Guides
Last edit by: KenTarmac
Please edit or add information to this wiki as necessary.

This is a quick and updated (periodically, by members) summary of post 1 that will be visible at the top of all pages of this thread.

Check-in times Link

In most locations, you must be checked in:

At least 45 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights within the United States

At least 60 minutes before scheduled departure, for flights to or from airports outside of the United States
CLT airport website: https://www.cltairport.com/

Link to older archived posts.

American operates flights out of concourses (sometimes) A and (always) B, C, D and E.

Ticket counters
Main Terminal - Daily: 3:30 a.m. - 10:30 p.m.


Concourses:
  • Concourse A is used by mostly other airlines (Air Canada, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, United, Via) but American uses Concourse A for some flights
  • Concourse B is usually used for flights to the West
  • Concourse C is usually used for East coast flights. Republic operated flights fly out of C as well.
  • Concourse D (The International Concourse) Most transatlantic flights out of CLT are at the far end of concourse D (Lufthansa and Volaris included)
  • D4 (A and B) are also express gates (Piedmont operated flights.)
  • Concourse E is the American Eagle concourse (Regional flights RJs)
Maps
From Airport Website


CLT / Charlotte Douglas International Airport map



CLT / Charlotte Douglas International Airport map

Getting from Concourse to Concourse

There is no need to leave the secure area to move from one concourse to another. *Exceptions are arriving international flights. In such case one has to clear immigration and customs, reclaim bags and proceed through security. [Obviously not applicable for those pre-cleared at selected overseas locations such as DUB] Keep in mind that if you purchased any liquids on the plane (duty free) you will have to follow the 3-1-1 rule and even check the bottles!

There are several moving walkways at the airport. At the least, there is a moving walkway at the beginning of each concourse, sometimes there are several (concourses A and E).

Other moving walkways include:
  • Across the atrium between concourses A, B and C.
  • Between the security checkpoint C exit and concourses D and E.
Note: One does have to take stairs/escalator or elevator to get to concourse E as it is on ground level.

Security at CLT
Security wait times can vary widely both by time/day. Monday mornings can have long lines. Checkpoints A and B are often the most crowded. When this is the case it's worth the walk to checkpoints C through E to avoid the long lines.
Since all the checkpoints share access to the secure area it really doesn't matter which one you use, they will all get you access to all gates.
Below is a break down of where the TSA precheck lanes are and where the checkpoints drop you off within the airport.
  • A Checkpoint: Standard 4 a.m. 8:15 p.m.
  • B Checkpoint: Standard, Main Pre✓ 4 a.m. 8:15 p.m.
  • C Checkpoint: Standard, Flex Lanes 5 a.m. 9:15 p.m.
  • C Checkpoint: Employee 4 a.m. - 10:15 p.m.
  • D Checkpoint: Main Pre✓ , Preferred 6 a.m. 10:15 p.m.
  • E Checkpoint: Standard 4:30 a.m. 10:45 p.m.
Reasonable and Minimum connection times in CLT
Most of the time CLT is really good in terms of on-time performance. However summer thunderstorms can drastically affect your travel experience.
  • Domestic Connections: MCT is 40 minutes. A minimum 1 hour scheduled connection time should be sufficient for domestic connections.
  • According to ExpertFlyer, the current MCT for American Airlines International-Domestic are:
AA-AA ID .50 AUA - ALL
AA-AA ID .50 BDA - ALL
AA-AA ID .50 COUNTRY BS - ALL
AA-AA ID 1.00 COUNTRY CA - ALL
AA-AA ID .50 COUNTRY IE - ALL
AA-AA ID 1.15 REGION EUR - ALL
AA-AA ID 1.00
  • MCT for anything involving international flights is 90 minutes; that will work for domestic to international, but:
  • I'm a non-US passport holder connecting in CLT from an international to a domestic flight. How long of a layover should I schedule?
    A: MCT is 90 minutes, but you should schedule a minimum of 2 hours to be safe to accommodate CBP, claiming your bags and then rechecking. (ie: LHR-CLT-PHX)
Parking at CLT
--Parking info can be found at this link.
*Security Note: If you park using curbside valet your car will be searched.

Cell Phone Lot: Park for free while waiting for arriving flights at CLTs Cell Phone Lot. All drivers are required to remain with their vehicles. Parking is provided on a first come, first served basis as space is available.

Rental Cars
Rental cars are in the parking deck directly across from the terminal. Follow the signs to the deck and take the escalator or elevator to the second level where you'll find the rental car counters. You no longer have to take a shuttle to the rental cars.
--More info on Rental Cars

Public Transportation
CATS offers service from CLT:
  • Route 5 Sprinter Airport Express - To Center City (Uptown)

Visit the CATS Website for more details and schedules.

Where to eat in the airport
--Good map of CLT Dining

CLT Lounges
  • American Airlines has two Admirals Clubs in CLT: A larger one between concourses C and D and smaller newly renovated one in concourse B.
  • AMEX is adding a new Centurion lounge, at CLT. It will be located after security at the intersection of Concourses D and E, on the top floor of a new airport expansion. Opening Monday, February 24, 2020
  • The Club CLT. Priority Pass lounge located in the A gate connector.
Currency Exchange
There are two Currency Exchange locations in CLT, both operated by Travelex:
  • One location in the center court atrium inside the secured area (airside). This location is open from 7 AM to 10 PM seven days a week.
  • A second currency exchange location has been added at the entrance to the D concourse in front of gates D1 and D2. This location is open from 6:30 AM to 10 PM seven days a week.

How quick is baggage claim in CLT?
  • Baggage claim returns in CLT tend to run a little longer than most airports. Expect a wait time of 20 to 25 minutes on average after deplaning. Depending on workload baggage returns can run upwards of 30 to 45 minutes.
  • Baggage returns for flights arriving on the E concourse and the A Concourse extension can take up to 45 minutes.
Is there a Chapel/Prayer Space? Wireless in CLT
CLT offers free Wi-Fi around the airport. The Admirals Club provides free access for club members through AT&T.

Do I have time to go into Charlotte?
You could take a cab or the city bus (see post Public Transportation above for info). I would venture to town only if there is more than 3 hours to kill and there is nothing you can do at the airport.
Lyft and Uber can both pick up at the airport.

Where can I smoke at the airport?
  • Charlotte Douglas International is a smoke free facility. Smoking is prohibited in all public areas, which includes all restaurants and bars.
  • Smokers on the front curb of the terminal are encouraged to use courtesy areas on each end of Baggage Claim and Ticketing levels.
Are there pet relief areas airside?
There are three:
  • Concourse A Connector
  • Concourse A/B Connector
  • Concourse D
Print Wikipost

GUIDE: CLT / Charlotte Douglas Airport - MCT, Connection, etc.

Old Feb 6, 2014, 1:38 am
  #16  
 
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: High Point, NC
Programs: None
Posts: 9,171
Originally Posted by scottsam66
Sorry for the "poopy rant"!
Actually, since CLT put the full-time attendants in the concourse restrooms I find that they're normally clean and pleasant. Admittedly someone can have an unpleasant movement with plenty of obnoxious gas anywhere, any time and if you happen to enter the restroom during/immediately after that there's not much anyone can do. But I haven't had that experience yet.

Jim
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Old Feb 6, 2014, 7:33 am
  #17  
 
Join Date: Jul 2004
Location: Treasure Coast Florida
Programs: USA Dividend miles soon to be AAdvantage
Posts: 723
Originally Posted by scottsam66
Hello FT
Anyone else frequent US clubs in CLT Monday mornings?
I think it's insane that for a pretty big club between C and D there is one bathroom and 4 stalls for men!
It's comical to see men in suits and ties waiting in a stinky bathroom for the privilege to plop down on a still hot toilet seat-- (let alone the stench!)
I have given up, and find a more pleasant experience when the need arises using the public restrooms! Sacrilege, I know but in CLT C they are pretty much the same as the Clubs, and no waiting.
More stalls please US Club!

Sorry for the "poopy rant"!
I have never had an "odorous" experience in the ladies room at this Club. It is always clean and relatively pleasant (for a restroom).
Heidelberg Barbie is offline  
Old Feb 6, 2014, 12:21 pm
  #18  
 
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: High Point, NC
Programs: None
Posts: 9,171
Unfortunately, I think most ladies are more considerate than most men when it comes to public restrooms

Jim
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Old Feb 9, 2014, 7:10 am
  #19  
 
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: CLT
Programs: US CP, HH Diamond, SPG Platinum
Posts: 261
How is the pre-check line on Monday Mornings?

I try to avoid Monday morning flights whenever possible because of the long security lines. I've found that I can get through security in about 5 minutes any other time of the week, but I allow a half hour or more on Monday mornings.

It's been a while since I've flown Monday morning, but the last time I did, the pre-check line was huge, so I used the regular line instead, and it did take a while. They have opened a second pre-check line since then. Tomorrow morning I have a 7:30am flight, and am debating how early I need to arrive at the airport. Are the Monday morning lines still crazy, or has it balanced out?
Argonott is offline  
Old Feb 9, 2014, 9:34 am
  #20  
 
Join Date: Nov 2001
Location: Everywhere
Posts: 753
Originally Posted by Argonott
I try to avoid Monday morning flights whenever possible because of the long security lines. I've found that I can get through security in about 5 minutes any other time of the week, but I allow a half hour or more on Monday mornings.

It's been a while since I've flown Monday morning, but the last time I did, the pre-check line was huge, so I used the regular line instead, and it did take a while. They have opened a second pre-check line since then. Tomorrow morning I have a 7:30am flight, and am debating how early I need to arrive at the airport. Are the Monday morning lines still crazy, or has it balanced out?
With the pre-check line at D now the waits for pre-check have been 5-10 minutes. They were trying some Randomizer thing a few weeks ago which overwhelmed the system and backed it up to 20 minutes. I haven't seen it in a couple of weeks.

Parking is getting worse not better. Last Monday it was 20 minutes from pulling into business valet to getting off the bus at the terminal. Not sure if it was a bad day for them or if that is the norm now, but be warned about parking.
gottigotti is offline  
Old Feb 9, 2014, 10:37 am
  #21  
 
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: CLT
Programs: US CP, HH Diamond, SPG Platinum
Posts: 261
Originally Posted by gottigotti
With the pre-check line at D now the waits for pre-check have been 5-10 minutes. They were trying some Randomizer thing a few weeks ago which overwhelmed the system and backed it up to 20 minutes. I haven't seen it in a couple of weeks.

Parking is getting worse not better. Last Monday it was 20 minutes from pulling into business valet to getting off the bus at the terminal. Not sure if it was a bad day for them or if that is the norm now, but be warned about parking.
Thanks for the feedback on the queue.

I've started just taking a cab to the airport. I've had trouble with all the parking options.
Argonott is offline  
Old Feb 11, 2014, 5:28 am
  #22  
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Programs: American Airlines Platinum, National Executive
Posts: 3,790
There is frequent public transportation between the airport and uptown Charlotte

Despite what post 1 says, there is frequent bus service between the airport and uptown (center city) Charlotte. A Charlotte Transit "Sprinter" bus leaves every 20-30 minutes from a bus stop located outside the lower level of the airport; if you're leaving baggage claim, exit and go to the right. The fare is around $2-ish and the bus will take dollar bills and coins. Schedules are available by looking for Route 5 below:

http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/c...s/default.aspx
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Old Feb 11, 2014, 6:30 am
  #23  
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Originally Posted by NYCommuter
There is frequent public transportation between the airport and uptown Charlotte

Despite what post 1 says, there is frequent bus service between the airport and uptown (center city) Charlotte. A Charlotte Transit "Sprinter" bus leaves every 20-30 minutes from a bus stop located outside the lower level of the airport; if you're leaving baggage claim, exit and go to the right. The fare is around $2-ish and the bus will take dollar bills and coins. Schedules are available by looking for Route 5 below:

http://charmeck.org/city/charlotte/c...s/default.aspx
The post at the top of the thread is a Wikipost, which means anyone can make edits or corrections. I've gone ahead and linked to your post with the correction.

I took the bus to downtown myself around Thanksgiving. It was a 20+ minute freezing cold wait for the bus to come, but once it did, it was a clean and quick ride downtown.
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Old Feb 13, 2014, 5:23 pm
  #24  
 
Join Date: Dec 2012
Location: Charlotte
Programs: Hilton Diamond, Marriott Platinum Elite, AA Platinum Pro, Hertz Presidents
Posts: 1,214
Can anyone provide any details on the state or the long term lots with all the snow?
I'm thinking I may need to pick up a retractable scraper/brush to get my car out. Those lanes are so freaking tight to drive thru-no way they plow between the aisles.
Only hope is tomorrow supposed to be warmer. Maybe some melts.
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Old Feb 24, 2014, 7:24 am
  #25  
 
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: CLT
Posts: 7,249
Lyft recently expanded their coverage area to use 485 as the basic perimeter so they can pick up at the airport now.

UberBlack has been able to do airport pickups for a while ($45 flat rate to uptown which is more than the $25 flat rate yellow cab), but now UberX can do airport pickups as well. I assume it's metered but I haven't tried yet. From my house in SouthPark to the airport on UberX it is $26 without traffic. It would be over $30 in a cab.

The links are normal (as in not affiliate) links. I do have promo codes for Lyft and Uber if you don't have a code from anyone else and you can PM me.

Lyft in Charlotte is currently in "Pioneer" which means if you are brand new to Lyft, your first 2 weeks of rides will be free up to $25/ride...no code needed. This is city specific so your rides won't carry over when you go home if you live in another Lyft market.
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Old Feb 24, 2014, 7:31 am
  #26  
 
Join Date: Aug 2006
Location: CLT
Posts: 7,249
And parking rates just went up ... (all rates per day)
Daily went from $7 to $10.
Business Valet from $10 to $14
Daily North is still $7 (when open)
Long Term is $5 (I think that is up from $4, but I haven't parked there since it was $3 years ago).

And Curbside Valet is $28. I think that was $28, but then after Hourly closed it seemed to match that rate at $18.
Hourly is still under construction and if you park in curbside valet your car will be searched.
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Old Mar 30, 2014, 3:22 pm
  #27  
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Programs: American Airlines Platinum, National Executive
Posts: 3,790
Looks like the Preferred lane before security is now basically gone, at least on weekends.

There used to be a Preferred lane at the entrance to the C concourse, then it moved over to the A/B entrance, and now it's back at the C concourse; if you're facing the US Airways first class/Preferred ticket counters, it's to the left.

However, the only lane at the C concourse, at least on the past few Sundays when I've flown, is for Preferreds (and first class); there is no "regular" lane. (There are two lanes, but one, which is the old Preferred lane, is closed, and the old "regular" lane, is marked "Preferred" but is open to anyone.)

I've noticed a huge line in that lane- just as long as the regular line at the entrance to the A/B concourses. When I've started to enter, I've noticed the sign saying "Preferred/First Class", and a security person asks, "Are you Preferred or first class?" when I start to enter.

However, the sole lane at the entrance to the C concourse, despite being marked "Preferred", is clearly used by just anyone who wants to use it, since the line is very, very long-much longer than it used to be- and is full of people who don't look like frequent flyers, and since the security person doesn't check boarding passes.

So I have used the D or E security lanes, which are much faster, even though there is no Preferred lane.

So...any way to contact the US station manager and get this situation fixed? The closed lane at the C concourse security entrance should be reopened and made a Preferred lane, as it used to be, or the Preferred lane should be enforced as just for Preferreds.

Thanks.
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Old Mar 30, 2014, 3:37 pm
  #28  
 
Join Date: Feb 2008
Location: NYC/CLT/LHR
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Originally Posted by NYCommuter
Looks like the Preferred lane before security is now basically gone, at least on weekends.

There used to be a Preferred lane at the entrance to the C concourse, then it moved over to the A/B entrance, and now it's back at the C concourse; if you're facing the US Airways first class/Preferred ticket counters, it's to the left.

However, the only lane at the C concourse, at least on the past few Sundays when I've flown, is for Preferreds (and first class); there is no "regular" lane. (There are two lanes, but one, which is the old Preferred lane, is closed, and the old "regular" lane, is marked "Preferred" but is open to anyone.)

I've noticed a huge line in that lane- just as long as the regular line at the entrance to the A/B concourses. When I've started to enter, I've noticed the sign saying "Preferred/First Class", and a security person asks, "Are you Preferred or first class?" when I start to enter.

However, the sole lane at the entrance to the C concourse, despite being marked "Preferred", is clearly used by just anyone who wants to use it, since the line is very, very long-much longer than it used to be- and is full of people who don't look like frequent flyers, and since the security person doesn't check boarding passes.

So I have used the D or E security lanes, which are much faster, even though there is no Preferred lane.

So...any way to contact the US station manager and get this situation fixed? The closed lane at the C concourse security entrance should be reopened and made a Preferred lane, as it used to be, or the Preferred lane should be enforced as just for Preferreds.

Thanks.

What time were you flying? I asked the TSA once, and they said they shut all the preferred (and PreCheck) lanes at 8pm on weekends. (and I've noticed sometimes as early as 7:30)

Last edited by plon; Mar 30, 2014 at 3:37 pm Reason: typo
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Old Mar 30, 2014, 3:41 pm
  #29  
 
Join Date: Jan 2003
Programs: American Airlines Platinum, National Executive
Posts: 3,790
Early afternoon on Sundays, both today and a few weeks ago (12:15pm today and about 2pm earlier).

The D concourse security lane was totally closed today.

What's irksome is that there are 2 lanes at the C concourse, but the old Preferred lane is closed, leaving one lane that's "Preferred" in name only (but for everyone). All that needs to be done to restore the old Preferred lane is to just remove the rope that shuts off the lane. There has always been just 1 TSA ID-checker there, so that doesn't need to change.
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Old Apr 10, 2014, 12:17 pm
  #30  
 
Join Date: Jun 2006
Location: STL
Posts: 1,546
What's a good minimum connection time for international to domestic at CLT for US passport holders with checked bags, arriving from Cancun? Seems like a lot of connections US is offering are around the 90 minute mark, would that be sufficient?
t325 is offline  

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