Discover the unexpected between takeoff and touchdown.
Next stop in the Tarmac Talk series? One of my most frequent flight paths—Charlotte Douglas International Airport, aka CLT. If you fly American Airlines regularly, chances are you’ve passed through here more than a few times. And if you haven’t yet—trust me, you will.
I flew into Charlotte from Cincinnati, and as usual, I found myself slipping into that all-too-familiar rhythm that CLT brings. This airport may not always be the flashiest, but it’s efficient, has a ton of personality, and feels a little like a hometown hub—just with a lot more gates and way more passengers.
Fast-paced but familiar
Charlotte Douglas is a major connector for American Airlines, so it’s no surprise that it’s constantly buzzing with travelers making tight layovers and quick dashes between gates. There’s a certain pulse to CLT—you feel it the moment you land. But the good news? The airport’s layout is fairly straightforward, and even with the hustle, it’s not hard to navigate once you’ve done it a few times.
Bonus: It’s one of the rare big airports where you can still see the runways and planes from giant terminal windows, which makes waiting at your gate feel a bit more inspiring.
The rocking chairs are iconic
Let’s talk about the rocking chairs. If you know, you know. Scattered throughout the terminals (especially in the Atrium), these white rocking chairs are a CLT signature. There’s something incredibly calming about sipping your coffee and watching planes roll in while you gently rock in a chair like you’re on a Southern porch. It’s a quirky little feature that gives this airport charm and a sense of place.
Dining on the go
Like most high-traffic airports, CLT offers a decent variety of food options. Bad Daddy’s Burger Bar is a solid pick if you’re hungry for something substantial, while Bojangles’ brings that Southern flavor (hello, biscuits). If you just need a snack or drink before dashing to your next flight, there are Starbucks locations practically around every corner, and Red Star Lounge offers a cozy spot for a bite and a sip.
If you’re looking for something healthier, Farmer’s Market has great fresh options and quick service. And for those with a sweet tooth—don’t skip Auntie Anne’s, because yes, a soft pretzel is a valid pre-boarding snack.
Layover logistics
If you’ve got a tight connection, keep your walking shoes on. CLT has five concourses (A–E), and Concourse E is notorious for feeling a bit farther than it looks on the map. There are moving walkways in some areas, but depending on your gate, you might still be in for a brisk walk. Give yourself time, especially during peak hours.
One thing I always appreciate? CLT has plenty of charging stations, especially in newer gate areas. And Wi-Fi is solid—uploading photos or videos during a layover is quick and easy.
Art, light, and local flair
CLT isn’t overloaded with art, but what it does have is thoughtfully placed. There are rotating art displays, local artist spotlights, and large sculptures—many of which reflect Charlotte’s mix of Southern roots and modern growth. Natural light floods many parts of the airport, especially the Atrium, giving it a bright, open-air feel even on busy travel days.
Final thoughts
Charlotte Douglas is one of those airports that becomes a part of your travel routine. It’s not flashy, but it gets the job done—and it does it well. If you’re connecting through, odds are high you’ll have everything you need: food, a little local flavor, easy connections (most days), and enough rocking chairs to relax in while planes glide past the windows.
Would I recommend CLT? Absolutely—especially if you’re flying American or doing a multi-leg domestic trip. It’s reliable, full of character, and, if you know where to look, actually kind of charming. So next time you’re passing through Charlotte, grab a biscuit, find a rocking chair, and soak up the layover for what it is: another step in the journey.
Until next time,
Angela ✈️
Lenses and Latitudes
