Master Plan Update 2050

Over the past decade, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) has seen a significant surge in activity, with annual passenger numbers surpassing 50 million. Recent developments, including the Concourse A Expansion and Terminal Lobby Expansion, represent the implementation of prior master plan recommendations, completed to accommodate the continued growth in demand at CLT. The City of Charlotte’s Aviation Department has initiated a comprehensive planning effort to define the long-range future of CLT, referred to as CLT Master Plan 2050. The plan will provide an organized framework for phased improvements over the next two decades and will serve as a foundation to support growth in activity through 2050 and beyond.

The CLT Master Plan 2050 will include analysis of existing Airport facilities, the preparation of forecasts of aviation activity, identification of gaps or deficiencies, and the evaluation of potential development and operational strategies to meet the Airport's needs for the near-, mid-, and long-term planning horizons.

This information will be updated periodically as the CLT Master Plan 2050 progresses, sharing interim findings and milestone activities. The Aviation Department is engaging with our tenants, businesses, and community stakeholders throughout the master planning process as we position to realize our vision and achieve our goals.

What is an Airport Master Plan?

An Airport Master Plan is a comprehensive study of an airport that defines the short-, medium-, and long-term development needed to support aviation growth over a 25-year planning horizon. It serves as a holistic guide for facility development, providing a framework for how the Airport can efficiently meet existing and future demand while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to changing industry conditions.

The Master Plan process evaluates existing facilities, forecasts future aviation activity, and identifies the infrastructure required to safely and efficiently accommodate growth. A key component of this effort is the preparation of aviation activity forecasts, which project future passenger volumes, aircraft operations and cargo activity. These forecasts are formally reviewed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure they are reasonable and aligned with national aviation trends, providing a foundation for determining future facility needs.

Another important outcome of the Master Plan is the Airport Layout Plan (ALP), which illustrates the long-term development vision for the Airport, including runways, taxiways, terminals and support facilities. The ALP is subject to FAA review and approval to confirm that proposed improvements meet federal safety and airport design standards. Once approved, the ALP serves as a key implementation tool and supports the Airport’s eligibility for federal funding.

Through this process, the Airport Master Plan establishes a clear long-term roadmap that guides decision-making, aligns infrastructure investments with projected demand, and ensures the Airport continues to operate safely, efficiently and effectively into the future.

Why is CLT Conducting an Airport Master Plan Update?

Charlotte Douglas International Airport’s (CLT) Master Plan was last comprehensively updated in 1988, with the most recent Airport Capacity Enhancement Study completed in 2016. Since that time, passenger volumes have grown significantly, reinforcing CLT’s role as a major hub within the national aviation system and increasing demand on its facilities and infrastructure.

Building on prior planning efforts, the previous Master Plan established a long-term vision for airfield and terminal development through 2035. As that horizon approaches, CLT is advancing key improvements identified in that plan, including the Fourth Parallel Runway (Runway 1-19, with End-Around Taxiways) and associated ramp enhancements, both expected to be completed by 2028.

These projects will increase airfield capacity and improve operational efficiency. In addition, the Terminal Lobby Expansion (TLE), completed in 2025, has significantly enhanced passenger processing capabilities through a modernized and expanded terminal, along with improved roadway and curbside access.

With these major investments nearing completion, the Airport has a timely opportunity to evaluate future needs. This Master Plan Update will validate previously identified projects, assess new facility and operational requirements, and refine a development strategy to meet anticipated demand through 2050. The updated plan will provide a roadmap to ensure CLT continues to operate efficiently, enhance the passenger experience, and support the region’s economic vitality in a safe, sustainable and cost-effective manner.