Oct 10, 2013, 10:57 am
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.
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:
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:
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.
Most of the time CLT is really good in terms of on-time performance. However summer thunderstorms can drastically affect your travel experience.
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
--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 CLT’s 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:
Visit the CATS Website for more details and schedules.
Where to eat in the airport
--Good map of CLT Dining
CLT Lounges
There are two Currency Exchange locations in CLT, both operated by Travelex:
How quick is baggage claim 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?
There are three:
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
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
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)
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.
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.
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 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 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 CLT’s 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.
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.
- There is one the 2nd floor of the Atrium. More info available here: www.cltairportchapel.org
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.
There are three:
- Concourse A Connector
- Concourse A/B Connector
- Concourse D
GUIDE: CLT / Charlotte Douglas Airport - MCT, Connection, etc.
Dec 3, 2019, 12:33 pm
#856
Suspended
Join Date: Sep 2006
Programs: AAdvantage PP
Posts: 13,913
The only concern I would have is that the flight to BHM is likely the last for the night. If the OP misses it he won't fly until the next day and depending upon the reason for the delay responsible for his own lodging. I'd personally try to reshuffle my schedule and take an earlier flight to CLT.
Dec 3, 2019, 1:05 pm
#857
Join Date: Feb 2017
Location: Austin, TX
Programs: BAEC Gold, HHonors Diamond, Marriott Titanium, UA Gold (*G), DL Silver, Makers Mark Ambassador
Posts: 4,643
It's very nice. There's a Potbelly, Bojangles, Shake Shack, Auntie Anne's Pretzels and a few other things. I will say the Potbelly was really overwhelmed. I was in line 25 minutes and was still six people from the cash register when I was worried I would miss my flight and I just handed over a $20 and left. I imagine things will settle down soon though.
Wicked Weed will let you order from Shake Shack at the bar and they will deliver to you once it's ready, which seems like a good way to relax and bypass the line.
Dec 3, 2019, 5:07 pm
#858
Join Date: Sep 2000
Location: DCA/IAD
Programs: AA EXP; 1W Emerald; HHonors Diamond; Marriott Gold; UA dirt
Posts: 7,816
The only concern I would have is that the flight to BHM is likely the last for the night. If the OP misses it he won't fly until the next day and depending upon the reason for the delay responsible for his own lodging. I'd personally try to reshuffle my schedule and take an earlier flight to CLT.
Dec 3, 2019, 9:41 pm
#859
Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: TPA
Programs: BA Silver; Hilton Gold; IHG Diamond Ambassador; Marriott Gold
Posts: 2,811
I arrived CLT Concourse B on Wed Nov 27 and was impressed with the new look, especially the white-on-blue signs. Departing Sun Dec 1 was of course very busy;.Bojangles and Shake Shack at D/E both had long lines but the latter at least had it moving efficiently.
Dec 6, 2019, 4:43 am
#860
Join Date: Apr 2008
Posts: 615
I arrive to concourse E(15) today. I would like to dip into the admiral lounge for a bite/drink but my connection time is only 45 mins. Not checking bags and I’m flying solo. Is this enough time to get into the club and grab a quick bite to eat before heading off to E5?
if not admiral club, any decent lounges in concourse?
TIA
if not admiral club, any decent lounges in concourse?
TIA
Last edited by gumercindo; Dec 6, 2019 at 4:49 am
Dec 6, 2019, 5:29 am
#861
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,483
I arrive to concourse E(15) today. I would like to dip into the admiral lounge for a bite/drink but my connection time is only 45 mins. Not checking bags and I’m flying solo. Is this enough time to get into the club and grab a quick bite to eat before heading off to E5?
if not admiral club, any decent lounges in concourse?
TIA
if not admiral club, any decent lounges in concourse?
TIA
Theoretically, if you're amongst the first off the plane and walk fast, then you might be able to make it to the AC to have 5 to at most 10 mins of time there before having to head to the next gate, and you'd most likely make it back as boarding was wrapping up on your next flight.
Basically tons of rush and effort to get some free snack mix or yogurt, etc. If you're talking about ordering food off the menu then I'd forget it, just stop somewhere in E. There are no other lounges.
Also, you say no checked bags, however everything in E is American Eagle on CRJ's mostly, will you have a gate check carry-on? If yes then you can also forget going to the AC as this will add another 5-10 mins waiting to get your bag from the first flight.
Dec 6, 2019, 7:04 am
#862
Join Date: Nov 2017
Location: CLT
Programs: AA EXP, 2 Million Miler
Posts: 821
Realistically no.
Theoretically, if you're amongst the first off the plane and walk fast, then you might be able to make it to the AC to have 5 to at most 10 mins of time there before having to head to the next gate, and you'd most likely make it back as boarding was wrapping up on your next flight.
Basically tons of rush and effort to get some free snack mix or yogurt, etc. If you're talking about ordering food off the menu then I'd forget it, just stop somewhere in E. There are no other lounges.
Also, you say no checked bags, however everything in E is American Eagle on CRJ's mostly, will you have a gate check carry-on? If yes then you can also forget going to the AC as this will add another 5-10 mins waiting to get your bag from the first flight.
Theoretically, if you're amongst the first off the plane and walk fast, then you might be able to make it to the AC to have 5 to at most 10 mins of time there before having to head to the next gate, and you'd most likely make it back as boarding was wrapping up on your next flight.
Basically tons of rush and effort to get some free snack mix or yogurt, etc. If you're talking about ordering food off the menu then I'd forget it, just stop somewhere in E. There are no other lounges.
Also, you say no checked bags, however everything in E is American Eagle on CRJ's mostly, will you have a gate check carry-on? If yes then you can also forget going to the AC as this will add another 5-10 mins waiting to get your bag from the first flight.
Jan 7, 2020, 7:38 pm
#864
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: NOVA
Programs: IHG Rewards Platinum, Marriott Gold, Hilton Diamond, UA/DL/AA Back of the plane...
Posts: 4,612
We had a schedule change that reduced our connection time in CLT from international to domestic from 110 minutes to 85 minutes. I am concerned about customs/immigration and making the connection. AA says it is a valid connection - but I thought MCT was ID connection time was 90 minutes?
We will have checked bags so will need to wait for bags....
We will have checked bags so will need to wait for bags....
Jan 7, 2020, 7:46 pm
#865
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,483
We had a schedule change that reduced our connection time in CLT from international to domestic from 110 minutes to 85 minutes. I am concerned about customs/immigration and making the connection. AA says it is a valid connection - but I thought MCT was ID connection time was 90 minutes?
We will have checked bags so will need to wait for bags....
We will have checked bags so will need to wait for bags....
Jan 7, 2020, 8:30 pm
#866
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: NOVA
Programs: IHG Rewards Platinum, Marriott Gold, Hilton Diamond, UA/DL/AA Back of the plane...
Posts: 4,612
50-60 minutes to claim bags, clear customs/immigration re-check bags and make the connection seems low... I have not come into the US through CLT so maybe it is doable, but I still am not comfortable with 85 minutes....
Jan 8, 2020, 5:51 am
#867
FlyerTalk Evangelist
Join Date: Feb 2001
Location: RDU <|> MMX
Programs: AA EXP 2MM, SK EBS
Posts: 12,483
But 85 mins is completely ok, really nothing to worry about. CLT is a crowded dump of an airport, you really dont want to spend any more time there than you have to.
Jan 8, 2020, 9:34 am
#868
Join Date: Sep 2002
Location: NOVA
Programs: IHG Rewards Platinum, Marriott Gold, Hilton Diamond, UA/DL/AA Back of the plane...
Posts: 4,612
Thanks for the feedback...
As this was an award ticket, I actually used it to my advantage (pun intended!).... Net saver awards opened up (I originally booked before they were available) and I cancelled / reinstated miles at no cost due to the schedule change after I held a better (for me) trip and saved a lot of miles...
Jan 23, 2020, 5:02 pm
#869
Join Date: Jan 2020
Posts: 2
Flying Madrid -> Charlotte -> Atlanta with an 85 minute connection in Charlotte 4/12/2019. The ATL flight is a 737 so not sure which terminal that will go to. Does this seem like a reasonable amount of time to clear customs, get bags, recheck, and go through security again (have TSA precheck). I'll be in business class so should be able to deplane quickly and my luggage should come out early. Thank you!
Jan 23, 2020, 5:20 pm
#870
Join Date: Nov 2017
Location: CLT
Programs: AA EXP, 2 Million Miler
Posts: 821
Flying Madrid -> Charlotte -> Atlanta with an 85 minute connection in Charlotte 4/12/2019. The ATL flight is a 737 so not sure which terminal that will go to. Does this seem like a reasonable amount of time to clear customs, get bags, recheck, and go through security again (have TSA precheck). I'll be in business class so should be able to deplane quickly and my luggage should come out early. Thank you!