Nearly 1.2 million people expected to travel through CLT airport for Independence Day

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – Long lines have stayed just that over the past week at Charlotte Douglas International Airport as hundreds of thousands are traveling for the Independence Day holiday.

Many who have not already left will brave the crowds and leave for the long holiday weekend Wednesday.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Charlotte Douglas officials and American Airlines all warned of this being the busiest summer on record.

At times in recent days, lines have stretched the length of the terminal with waits to get through security upward of an hour.

The TSA said to expect wait times of 30 minutes or less in standard screening lines, and those with Pre-Check should be able to get through in under 10 minutes.

Airport officials said they expect nearly 1.2 million passengers this week alone – 12% more than the same week last year.

With all those extra travelers, it crucial that flyers arrive in the terminal two hours before their flight. Officials said that does not include getting to the airport or time spent looking for parking.

As for parking, travelers can check lot and parking deck availability, as well as book and pay for parking online before arriving. That can be done by clicking here, or by downloading the CLT Airport app.

Related: Old air traffic control tower at Charlotte airport catches fire during demolition

Copyright 2024 WBTV. All rights reserved.