Charlotte Airport Expects 2.7 Million Passengers During Holiday Season

Charlotte Douglas International Airport will see around 2.7 million passengers arrive and depart during the winter holiday travel season, a 13% decrease from 2024. The 20-day period started Dec. 16 and runs through Jan. 4.

Flight volume is projected at 27,600, marking a 6% year-over-year decrease. Around 630,000 travelers will start their trips in Charlotte, down 5% from last year.

The busiest local departure days are expected to be Dec. 19 and Dec. 26-27. Overall travel will peak between Dec. 26 and 28.

AAA reports flights cost around 7% more than last year. Brooke Murrin and her family were heading home after vacationing in the mountains.

"It seems like you pay extra for everything now," Murrin said, according to Queen City News. "Even if you have to talk to someone while checking in, they charge you."

Bill Slusky, a traveler from Connecticut, was visiting grandchildren in different locations. "We're from Connecticut, and we were visiting grandchildren here, and now we're going to visit grandchildren there," Slusky said.

The Transportation Security Administration expects consistent crowds rather than spikes. "We don't expect to see those significant spikes in volume, but it's just busier over the period," said TSA spokesperson Carter Langston.

TSA unveiled a new Touchless ID option on Monday for eligible travelers. Passengers enrolled in American Airlines' frequent flier program and TSA PreCheck can opt in through the airline's app if their passport information is also uploaded.

At the checkpoint, travelers stand on marked spots while an officer takes a photo to verify identity and travel details. "It just takes a few seconds, and then the passenger is on their way," Langston said.

Langston said Touchless ID is available across 15 airports and offered by five different airlines. American Airlines is the only carrier offering this feature at CLT right now.

Officials have deployed extra staff in bright yellow vests to help and assist travelers. They recommend giving yourself extra time to avoid rushing.