PBS Spotlights CLT Aviation Academy

CLT’s popular Aviation Academy graduated its ninth class earlier this month. The eight-week session began on January 17 and ended on March 4, 2026.

PBS Charlotte will showcase the Academy on its “Carolina Impact” segment, airing on Tuesday, March 31, at 8 p.m.

"We chose to highlight the Aviation Academy because Charlotte Douglas International isn’t just an airport—it’s one of the largest employers and revenue generators in the region,” said PBS reporter and producer Chris Clark. “With so many moving parts, it’s important to our economy. We’re lucky to have this in our backyard, and this program gives a rare glimpse behind the curtain of something that impacts all of us."

Selection Process

The 27 Aviation Academy participants were chosen through a competitive admissions process, attended classes and received certificates of completion.

The Academy offers a unique chance to learn about how CLT operates and its effect on the regional economy, transportation system and community.

While a few other Airports offer an Aviation Academy, Community Engagement Manager Melissa Treadaway said she believes CLT’s is the most in-depth and experiential.

Agenda & Highlights

This year’s program featured tours of the airfield, terminal, CLT Fire Station #41, the American Airlines maintenance facility and flight simulators. New additions included a tour of CLT’s baggage handling operation and a visit to the Sullenberger Aviation Museum.

“We were so excited to have PBS Charlotte not just do a story about Aviation Academy but allow a reporter to immerse himself in the program,” added Treadaway. “By fully experiencing Aviation Academy, Chris learned about the many people and systems that must work together perfectly to keep CLT running smoothly. And he got to see the participants—who all joined the academy for different reasons—find what they were looking to gain from the program.”

Since 2017, 235 participants have completed the Aviation Academy.