CLT Named Most Financially Efficient Airport for Third Consecutive Year

CHARLOTTE, NC – Charlotte Douglas International Airport has been named the most financially efficient airport in North America for the third year in a row, based on 2023 data and airports serving more than 40 million passengers, according to the Air Transport Research Society (ATRS), a leading academic research organization in the air transportation industry.

“To be recognized again by ATRS affirms the core of what we strive for every day: to connect the world by valuing people, partnerships and productivity and to be the hub of choice with innovative experiences and superior facilities,” said CLT Chief Financial Officer Mike Hill. “We are honored to accept this award and grateful for the continued recognition of our financial model, one that has proven resilient through economic cycles and the evolving aviation landscape.”

The award, announced July 3 in Hong Kong, is the result of the ATRS Global Airport Performance Benchmarking Task Force’s year-long research into several important aspects of operations, including productivity, efficiency, cost competitiveness and financial results. The group studies 205 airports and 24 airport groups of various sizes and ownership forms in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America.

CLT’s reputation for sound financial management is also reflected in its consistently strong bond ratings, which helps the airport secure favorable financing for infrastructure projects that support its rapid growth and operational efficiency. CLT is nearing completion of Destination CLT, a multi-billion-dollar expansion program intended to support increased passenger traffic, modernize the airport's facilities and enhance passenger experience.

Charlotte Douglas ranks the sixth busiest airport worldwide for arrivals and departures and seventh in North America for passengers according to the Airports Council International (ACI) 2024 preliminary rankings. Globally, passenger traffic ranks 23rd. CLT’s sixth place position for takeoffs and landings reflects an 11% increase in aircraft operations, rising from 539,066 in 2023 to 596,583 in 2024.

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