Hello, 2026! Here’s What’s On The Horizon at CLT

CLT soared in the new year with new routes, plans for new art and ongoing construction of a new runway – the only one currently under construction in the U.S.

The $608 million Terminal Lobby Expansion was completed in September 2025, and the fourth parallel runway is approaching its halfway point, with a scheduled opening in fall 2027. Runway redesignation will begin in May 2026.

Concourse D-E Renovations Progressing

CLT’s busiest concourse—Concourse E—is currently undergoing exciting renovations. Expect new Terrazzo flooring, gate renumbering, updated wayfinding signage, improved flight information displays, and new moving walkways to enhance passenger flow and shorten walking distances (scheduled for completion in March 2027).

On Concourse D, restroom renovations are underway, along with electrical upgrades, ticket-level renovations, and new carpeting (scheduled for completion in late 2026).

Oh, the Places You’ll Go

Thinking about new adventures in 2026? Consider exploring the Big Easy during Mardi Gras, visiting bourbon distilleries in the Bluegrass State, or booking a ticket on CLT’s longest nonstop flight yet—to Abu Dhabi.

Here are some of our carriers adding new routes this year:

Frontier Airlines

• Feb. 12-22 – Service to New Orleans (MSY)
• March 6 – Service to Cancun (CUN)

American Airlines

• Feb. 3 - Weyers Cave, VA (SHD)
• Feb. 10 – Lewisburg, WV (LWB)
• February 12 – Service to Vero Beach (VRB)
• June 4 - Columbia, MO (COU)

Contour Airlines

• Feb. 26 – Owensboro, KY (OWB)

Etihad Airways

• March 20 – Service to Abu Dhabi (AUH) rescheduled from May 4

Parking Rate Increase

Passengers parking at CLT Airport will see added amenities in the new year, including expanded services and facility upgrades, along with a slight rate increase – the first since November 2023.

The new rates will take effect on March 1, 2026.

Dynamic pricing applies to all reservation-enabled lots and decks and will vary based on demand and the time of year. Currently, approximately 17,000—or about 65%—of CLT’s 25,000 parking spots are available for online pre-booking only.

Customers are encouraged to book early at parkclt.com and save more!

Royalty Program Grows

Those enrolled in the Airport’s Royalty Program will continue to earn points and enjoy rewards like exclusive discounts. As of November 2025, more than a quarter of a million loyal customers are already Royalty members.

Drivers parking at CLT will enjoy improved technology, new buses, and expanded, upgraded valet services, providing easy, stress-free travel.

New Artwork & Relocations

The iconic “First in Flight” aviation mobile will make its “re-debut” on Concourse D before the end of 2026.

The kinetic mobile, created by the late sculptor George Greenamyer (1939-2023), hung in the Atrium from 1997 until it was removed in 2025 for cleaning and relocation. The move will improve sightlines, offer a view of uptown Charlotte and maintain public access.

Additionally, eight to ten new murals will be installed in the terminal throughout the year, along with a new metal wall sculpture at two locations on Concourse D as part of the ongoing renovation. The rotating murals will feature new art and artists at various stages of their career development.

Visitors can also look for a new installation of artwork on glass at specific locations on Concourse E and additional sites in the terminal.

Expanded Holiday Decor

CLT’s new holiday décor was a hit in 2025 (featured in The Washington Post and on the Today Show) and will expand in 2026.

The popular blue, gold, and silver garland baubles displayed on the flight information screens and baggage carousels delighted travelers, along with the always-popular reindeer – Wilbur and Orville in the Atrium, and the Peace Doves located on the D/E Connector and in the Ticket Lobby at Checkpoint 3.

Concessions Opening in 2026

Whether you are looking for a quick beverage, a light snack to take on the plane, or a sit-down meal, CLT continues to expand its offerings in 2026:

• Explorer Bar - Concourse E (remodel)
• Sugar Creek Brewing Company – Concourse A Connector (New Space)
• Grounded In CLT - A/B Connector (Old Be Relax and Red Mango)
• Einstein Bros. Bagels - Concourse E (remodel)
• Sambazon – Concourse A (remodel)