Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)

International passengers disembark at Concourse D and proceed through US Federal Inspection Services before entering the main terminal arrivals hall.

• Follow signs for Passport Control upon exiting the aircraft at Concourse D.
• Present travel documents to US Customs and Border Protection officers at passport control.
• Collect checked luggage from the dedicated baggage reclaim carousels within the secure customs area.
• Clear customs inspection with your declared goods and baggage.
• Exit the secure area into the main terminal baggage claim level to access ground transport or connecting flights.

• Bus

  Public Bus

  The Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) Sprinter Bus (Route 5) operates between the lower level zone of the terminal and Charlotte Transportation Centre in Uptown.

  Time:

  roughly 25-35 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically 2.20 USD

• Ride-hailing

  Rideshare

  App-based rideshare services pick up passengers at designated zones outside the lower level arrivals curb.

  Time:

  roughly 15-25 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically 20-35 USD

• Taxi

  Taxi

  Taxis are available from the lower level curb outside baggage claim, with metered and flat-rate fares to central Charlotte.

  Time:

  roughly 15-25 minutes

  Typical cost:

  typically 25-35 USD

• Car rental

  Rental Car

  The Consolidated Rental Car Facility is directly across from the terminal building, accessible via covered walkways from baggage claim.

  Time:

  roughly 15-25 minutes (drive time)

  Typical cost:

  varies by rental company

Transferring between domestic flights takes place airside, whereas international arrivals must re-screen prior to connecting.

• Domestic-to-domestic connections do not require exiting the secure area; all concourses are linked airside.
• International arrivals clearing customs must hand off re-checked baggage at the transfer counter and pass through TSA security screening.
• Walking between concourses takes roughly 10-20 minutes depending on the gate location.
• Allow a minimum of 90 to 120 minutes for international-to-domestic transfers.

Free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the passenger terminal and all concourses.

• Select the official network named CLT Free WiFi on your device settings.
• Accept the standard terms of use on the pop-up portal page to connect.
• No user registration or payment is required.
• Power outlets and USB charging points are situated in seating areas across all concourses.

Cash machines and currency exchange facilities are located landside and airside.

• Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) operated by major domestic banks are situated across the terminal.
• Foreign currency exchange counters are positioned in the main terminal area and near Concourse D.
• Card payments (Visa, Mastercard, Express) are accepted at nearly all shops, dining venues, and transport points.
• Contact your issuing bank before travelling to ensure international card usage is enabled.

A broad range of local and national food outlets is distributed throughout the central Atrium and concourses.

• The central Atrium area features sit-down restaurants, national fast-food options, and coffee shops.
• Concourse corridors offer takeaway kiosks, express cafes, and bars.
• Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dietary choices are marked on menus across major dining spots.
• Most outlets open early morning to accommodate early departures and close after late evening flights.

Airline lounges and premium lounges are located in the secure airside areas.

• American Airlines Admirals Club lounges operate in Concourse B, Concourse C, and the Concourse D/E connector.
• The American Express Centurion Lounge is located on the Mezzanine level above the Plaza between Concourses D and E.
• Priority Pass holders may access eligible network locations subject to space availability.
• Single-day passes can be purchased at select lounge reception desks if capacity permits.

There are no hotels directly inside the terminal building, but numerous options exist within a short driving distance.

• Courtesy shuttles for nearby airport hotels pick up on the lower level outside baggage claim.
• Direct-dial hotel reservation boards are located in the baggage claim area for immediate bookings.
• Multiple major hotel chains operate properties within 2 to 5 miles of the airport site.
• Uptown Charlotte hotels can be reached within 15 to 25 minutes by taxi, rideshare, or bus.

Baggage reclaim carousels are located on the lower level of the main passenger terminal.

• Carousels are divided into Zone A (Concourses A/B) and Zone B (Concourses C/D/E) on the lower level.
• International arriving luggage is retrieved inside the secure FIS area prior to clearing customs.
• Luggage trolleys are available for rent near the carousels and main entrances.
• Airline baggage service desks are situated in the baggage claim area for reporting missing or damaged luggage.

Facilities for families with children are provided throughout the terminal building.

• Private Mother's Rooms equipped with seats, power outlets, and sinks are available in several concourses.
• Companion care and family restrooms are situated alongside main restroom groups.
• Baby-changing tables are standard in all public restrooms across the airport.
• Strollers can be used up to the aircraft boarding gate on outbound flights.

• Mother's Rooms
• Interfaith Chapel
• Service Animal Relief Areas
• Currency Exchange
• ATMs
• Charging Stations
• Accessible Restrooms

Local emergency number: 911

• Dial 911 from any mobile device or landline for immediate medical, fire, or police emergency response.
• Airport Police personnel are stationed throughout the terminal to assist with urgent safety issues.
• For lost passports or official document issues, contact US Customs and Border Protection officers or your home diplomatic mission.

• Check your passport validity and any visa, ETA or entry declaration required.
• Confirm your departure terminal on your boarding pass the day before.
• Activate a travel eSIM so you are online the moment you land.
• Download offline maps and screenshot your hotel address and booking reference.
• Tell your bank you are travelling and carry a backup payment card.
• Save the local emergency number and your embassy contact in your phone.
• Photograph your passport and store the copy somewhere you can reach offline.
• Check baggage allowance and any restricted items for your destination.

Airport operations change. Always confirm terminals, fares and timetables with the official sources below before you travel.

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport Official SiteOfficial airport source
• US Customs and Border ProtectionGovernment source
• City of Charlotte - CATS Transit InformationOfficial transit source
• Official Portal of the US Government - Emergency ServicesGovernment source