CLT expects a 14% bump in summer travel — but you can still fly smoothly

As summer travel heats up, the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) expects a 14% increase in travel compared to 2023, and a 24% increase from pre-pandemic travel records set in 2019.

In other words: If you're flying out of Charlotte this summer, take time to prepare before you leave to ensure smooth travels.

Here's the deal: The Airport estimates about 8.1 million local and connecting passengers will fly through Charlotte this June, July and August — one million more people than last summer.

The background: Ranked among the world's busiest airports, according to Airports Council International, 118,000 people travel to, from and through CLT each day.

• CLT offers nonstop air service to 186 nonstop destinations, including 39 international, and is home to eight major air carriers, 15 regional carriers and three foreign flag carriers.

Plus, plus, plus: CLT is wrapping up a $4 billion multi-year renovation throughout the Airport, including the expansion of the terminal lobby to support passenger growth and enhance customer experience.

• The record-breaking summer travel season coupled with construction will impact all aspects of air travel, including the roads that lead to CLT, parking availability, curbside traffic, security wait times and lines for concessions.

The impact: "Air travel is different than it was before the pandemic. Crowds are bigger. Even frequent flyers will notice just about every step of the process takes a little longer," said CLT's Chief Operations Officer Jerome Woodard. "We don't want travelers to get caught off guard; that's why we are urging them to prepare in advance for their trips, utilize the travel tools the Airport provides and arrive at CLT with plenty of time to spare."

What you need to know: The busiest days for local passengers will be Thursdays, Fridays and Mondays.

• In addition, there's more than one way to get to the airport. CLT's front door is off Wilkinson Boulevard and Josh Birmingham Parkway. If that area is congested, you can access the Airport from Billy Graham Parkway.

Here's what else: Download the CLT Airport app to make traveling out of Charlotte stress-free this summer.

The free app allows you to:

• Book parking ahead of your trip, including the best available pricing.
• Check security and shuttle bus wait times.
• Look up flight tracking with real-time flight status updates.
• Explore airport amenities, including restaurants, shops and relaxation areas.
• Conveniently order and pay for food and beverages from many airport locations.
• Utilize indoor navigation, including turn-by-turn directions and accessibility options.

Download the CLT Airport ahead of summer travel.