Airport Tours
Tours
Airport tours offer groups a behind-the-scenes experience and an insider’s view of one of the world’s busies airports, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). Groups will learn what it takes to operate an international airport, get the latest information on CLT’s construction and expansion plans, find out what it means to be a hub airport and learn about CLT’s impact on the Charlotte region.
Groups are subject to a security check, which includes screening against the Department of Homeland Security’s No-Fly List. Based on the security check, some people could be excluded from participating.
Tour Availability
The Community Engagement team offers a limited number of airport tours each month and all requests may not be accommodated. Tours can be reserved up to three months in advance. Tours are not offered on weekends or holidays.
Due to operational and FAA restrictions, tours are only allowed on certain dates and times and are set by CLT staff. The Community Engagement team does not coordinate or provide tours of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Air Traffic Control Tower at CLT.
Tour Groups
Tours are provided to groups or individuals 14 years or older. For individuals 13 years or younger, we recommend a trip to the Airport Overlook. Groups are welcome to visit the Overlook on their own during operating hours. Chaperones also can request an airport official to meet groups at the Airport Overlook for a presentation or to answer questions.
Tour Requests
Please email the Community Engagement team at communityengagement@cltairport.com and provide an overview of individuals in your group, any organization affiliation, number of guests expected and areas of interest in CLT airport.
Accessibility
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), which is operated by the city of Charlotte’s Aviation Department, does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We will provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats, and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to persons with disabilities upon request. To make a request, please contact communityengagement@cltairport.com.
Is there a charge?
No, airport tours are free.
What happens on a tour?
Not all tours are the same, and vary based on a groups’ interest, staff availability, projects, and activities at the airport.
What is the minimum and maximum number of people allowed on a tour?
The minimum is 15 people, and the maximum is 40 people. Requests under 15 people may be accommodated but will have to be added to an already scheduled tour.
What is the minimum age for tour groups?
Fourteen years old. The Airport Overlook is recommended for younger children.
What are the security requirements?
All guest names will be run against the No-Fly list, and then IDs will be checked before we board the bus. All participants are subject to a security check, which includes screening against the Department of Homeland Security’s No-Fly List. Based on the security check, some people could be excluded from participating.
What is an acceptable ID?
An unexpired valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license, passport or military identification.
What can I bring with me?
Photography will be allowed, so groups can bring cameras and phones.
What can’t I bring with me?
Groups cannot bring large bags or purses.
Do airport tours include the Federal Aviation Administration’s Air Traffic Control Tower at CLT?
No, we do not provide tours of the tower.
If a tour is not available, what other options are?
The CLT Airport YouTube page offers virtual tours and informational videos. The Airport Overlook is another great way to see the airfield and learn about the airport.
What if my group is interested in learning more about airport careers, apprenticeship and internship programs?
Visit CLT Careers or Aviation Department Apprenticeship and Internship Programs.