Five years later, it's time to update my CLT review. Between 4/4/2009 and today, I've departed from or arrived at this airport over 100 times. I've also gotten a couple of gate passes to escort my daughter through security.
CLT is still a good airport for layovers. Lots of restaurant options from a fancy wine bar to a sit down burger joint, plus a full spectrum of fast food. The main atrium even has a pretty good barbecue spot if you're looking for Carolina 'cue and can't leave the secure zone.
For those departing from CLT, you can use *any* of the security checkpoints. Unlike some airports (Newark), once you're inside Charlotte you can go to any gate. The line at A is usually pretty long, so feel free to wander up to B or C if they look shorter.
Southwest, United and Delta are in the A concourse. American is also there but might be moving as a result of the merger. JetBlue and Lufthansa are in D, I believe.
Tips:
- Rental car franchises are not located in the terminal - you do have to catch your company's shuttle bus.
- There's not a smoking lounge inside the secure area. You have to go outside and follow the signs.
- B and E checkpoints have TSA Precheck lines. Other checkpoints have "elite" security queues which are not specific to just US Airways. Any elite passenger is allowed to use it!
- There are TWO US Airways Clubs. With US moving to the OneWorld alliance, American Airlines folks who have Admiral's Club access can use these clubs.
Consider trying Park 'N Go instead of Business Valet. I find their service is better and cheaper than the airport's service.