Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) just released a construction update for their Terminal Lobby Expansion (TLE), a $608 million project that began in 2019. The expansion will add 175,000 square feet to the terminal lobby and renovate another 191,000 square feet, enhancing passenger flow and modernizing key areas.
According to airport officials, Checkpoint 2 is now on track to open in time for Spring Break, with the entire expansion now ready for completion by fall 2025.
The terminal, originally built in 1982, was designed to handle 2.8 million passengers annually but served over 43 million travelers in 2021. The TLE aims to accommodate growing demand and improve the airport experience with larger security checkpoints, more baggage claim carousels, additional concessions, and new seating areas.
A 146,000-square-foot canopy will protect passengers outside the terminal, and two pedestrian walkways will connect the mezzanine level to the Hourly Deck, allowing visitors to bypass heavy traffic.
The Arts & Science Council partnered with CLT to feature eight commissioned artists, adding public artwork to the expansion. Notable installations include the Queens Charlotte statue by Raymond Kaskey, suspended sculptures by Danielle Roney, and a subterranean walkway mural by Catherine Widgery.
The TLE is funded through Passenger Facility Charges (PFC), Customer Facility Charges (CFC), General Airport Revenue Bonds (GARBs), and airport cash. The project is managed by Holder-Edison Foard-Leeper, a Joint Venture.
