Update on Airline Use and Lease Agreement

CHARLOTTE, NC – Four months after announcing an extension, negotiations between Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and its signatory airlines — American, Delta, Frontier, Southwest and United — on a new Airline Use and Lease Agreement (AULA) continue to progress. A public presentation is planned for the Oct. 12 Charlotte City Council meeting, followed by a review period before the Council considers approval of the agreement at a subsequent meeting.

The framework of the agreement is structured around four key pillars: capital development, enhancing financial position, operational flexibility and asset preservation.

Pending approval by Charlotte City Council, the AULA launches CLT Beyond, encompassing nearly a dozen projects spanning the terminal, airfield and airport campus. It represents CLT’s continued evolution through strategic investments that advance innovation, enhance the passenger experience and strengthen critical infrastructure.

CLT Beyond Program Highlights:

• Concourse C Expansion: A new concourse with additional gates.

• Passenger Tunnel: A passenger tunnel connecting the main terminal to the expanded Concourse C.

• International Arrivals Renovations: Updates to the areas used by international passengers.

• Airfield Improvements: Updates to the airfield needed to support the opening and operation of the Fourth Parallel Runway.

• Critical Infrastructure Upgrades: Replacement and modernization of essential systems that keep the Airport running, including electrical systems.

• International Concourse Expansion: Planning and design for future expansion of international gate facilities.

• Atrium Expansion: Planning and design for a future expansion of the terminal atrium.

The current AULA between CLT and the signatory airlines took effect July 1, 2016, and was set to expire June 30, 2026. The parties agreed to extend the agreement to allow additional time to make progress toward a long-term agreement that supports continued growth and success.

AULA Background:

• The AULA governs the business relationships between the Airport and its partner airlines including the assignment of property rights, airport/airline operations, maintenance and repair obligations, and the financial commitments between the parties.

• The AULA negotiations are protected under North Carolina General Statute 132-6(d) (“Economic Development Records”) until negotiations are complete.

As a powerful economic engine for the Carolinas, CLT generates nearly $40 billion in annual economic impact and supports approximately 184,400 jobs across North and South Carolina. CLT and its airline partners remain committed to fostering a safe, strong and thriving airport environment for employees, passengers and the community. In connection with the proposed AULA, CLT maintains its commitment to ongoing and expanded workforce programs and partnerships, while strengthening the region’s connections to the world.

The Oct. 12 presentation to City Council will take place during the Council Action Review portion at 5 p.m. in Room 267 of the Government Center. The presentation will be streamed live by the City of Charlotte.

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