Route Development
Charlotte Douglas Airport Completes 608 Million Terminal Lobby Expansion
Charlotte Douglas International Airport completes a $608M terminal lobby expansion to boost capacity and enhance passenger experience.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) has completed the largest infrastructure project in its history, the $608 million Terminal Lobby Expansion. This milestone marks a significant transformation for the airport, which has grown from a regional facility into one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs. The expansion, undertaken by the Holder-Edison Foard-Leeper joint venture, added 175,000 square feet of new space and renovated 191,000 square feet of the original terminal, first opened in 1982. The project’s completion in September 2024 is the culmination of nearly two decades of planning and six years of construction, involving over 200 companies and 5,000 workers contributing more than 5 million man-hours.
The expansion addresses severe capacity constraints that had emerged as passenger numbers soared, positioning CLT to meet growing demand while enhancing the traveler experience. As part of the broader $4 billion Destination CLT initiative, this project not only modernizes infrastructure but also reinforces the airport’s role as a critical economic driver for the Carolinas and an essential node in global aviation.
CLT’s transformation mirrors Charlotte’s evolution into a major metropolitan center. When the terminal opened in 1982, it was designed for approximately 2.7 million local passengers annually, a figure that seemed ambitious at the time. However, the subsequent decades saw exponential growth, driven largely by American Airlines’ decision to establish Charlotte as a major hub. This partnership shifted CLT’s focus from serving local travelers to becoming a key connector in global air travel.
By 2024, CLT served 58.8 million passengers annually, a more than 2,000% increase from its original design capacity. The airport’s role as American Airlines’ second-largest hub has been pivotal, with around 70% of passengers connecting through Charlotte rather than originating or terminating their journeys there. This surge in demand created operational challenges, including overcrowded security checkpoints, limited baggage claim space, and bottlenecks that sometimes required passengers to wait outside during peak periods.
Charlotte’s rapid population growth, averaging 157 new residents per day, further amplified these pressures. The mismatch between terminal capacity and passenger volume made expansion essential to maintain operational efficiency and passenger satisfaction. The Terminal Lobby Expansion was conceived as a solution not only to address immediate needs but also to future-proof the airport against continued growth.
CLT’s expansion occurs within a broader context of aging airport infrastructure across the United States. Many airports built between the 1960s and 1980s are now facing similar capacity challenges. CLT’s approach to terminal modernization, executed while maintaining continuous operations, has attracted attention from other airports seeking to balance growth with operational continuity.
According to Airports Council International, CLT ranks as the sixth busiest airport worldwide for operations and seventh in North America for total passenger volume. This status underscores the importance of maintaining and expanding infrastructure to support both regional and national aviation networks.
As a result, the Terminal Lobby Expansion is not just a local or regional project, it serves as a potential model for other airports grappling with similar modernization needs in a rapidly evolving travel landscape. “Charlotte Douglas International Airport contributed $40 billion to the economies of North and South Carolina in 2023, accounting for 5% of North Carolina’s gross domestic product.”
Planning for the Terminal Lobby Expansion began in 2008, with airport officials conducting extensive surveys of over 2,000 travelers to inform the project’s design. The expansion added 175,000 square feet of new space and renovated 191,000 square feet of the original terminal, fundamentally reshaping the passenger journey from curbside to gate.
At the heart of the new design is Queens Court, a central gathering space featuring the restored statue of Queen Charlotte. This area not only provides a sense of place and local identity but also serves as a decompression zone for travelers. The space is designed to accommodate large groups, offer flexible seating options, and create a welcoming atmosphere that contrasts with the often stressful environment of busy airports.
The project’s most visible architectural feature is the 63-truss canopy system, incorporating over 2,400 glass panes and covering 146,000 square feet of curbside area. This canopy provides weather protection, enhances natural lighting, and creates a seamless connection between the terminal and parking facilities.
The expansion consolidated five lettered security checkpoints into three numbered facilities, increasing the total number of lanes from 17 to 21. More than half of these lanes are equipped with Automated Screening Lanes, which can process approximately 600 additional passengers per hour compared to traditional systems. The new Checkpoint 1 alone features six Automated Screening Lanes and two standard lanes, with TSA officials estimating a 20-30% increase in throughput.
Baggage handling has also been upgraded, with eight high-capacity carousels replacing older systems. These improvements reduce congestion, improve sight lines, and streamline the baggage claim process. Additional escalators and elevators enhance vertical circulation, making the passenger journey more intuitive and efficient.
Wayfinding enhancements, informed by passenger research, include clearer signage, open checkpoint environments, and improved sight lines. These changes address common pain points and help reduce stress and confusion for travelers navigating the terminal.
The Terminal Lobby Expansion incorporates advanced design and sustainability features. The canopy’s dynamic electrochromic glass adjusts tinting based on sunlight, optimizing comfort while reducing energy consumption. The expansion achieved Two Green Globes certification, with interior lighting systems reducing energy use by 39% compared to conventional designs.
The construction process diverted 95% of waste from landfills and reused significant portions of the existing structure. These practices demonstrate a commitment to minimizing environmental impact while delivering a modern, efficient facility. Technology integration extends to Automated Screening Lanes, which use RFID tags to track bins and streamline security processes. Baggage systems also feature enhanced tracking and visibility, contributing to overall operational efficiency.
“The Terminal Lobby Expansion’s $608 million investment is the largest single construction contract in CLT’s history, engaging over 200 companies and creating substantial employment opportunities.”
Executing the Terminal Lobby Expansion within an active airport environment required exceptional coordination. The Holder-Edison Foard-Leeper joint venture brought together national expertise, local knowledge, and a commitment to diversity and community engagement.
Holder Construction contributed experience managing large-scale projects, Edison Foard provided deep familiarity with CLT’s operational environment, and R.J. Leeper Construction ensured robust participation by minority and women-owned businesses. This partnership model supported workforce development and community benefits throughout the construction process.
The project was divided into six phases to minimize passenger disruption. Key milestones included the opening of an underground walkway in July 2022, new ticket counters in March 2023, the restored Queen Charlotte statue in October 2023, and the east-side lobby and Checkpoint 1 in November 2023. The final phases, including the completion of the canopy and last checkpoint, are scheduled for early 2025.
The joint venture maintained strong safety records, coordinating over 6,000 workers and 200 companies across multiple work areas. The emphasis on safety and operational continuity ensured that airport services were not significantly disrupted during construction.
Community impact extended beyond job creation, with targeted efforts to engage local businesses and support workforce development. The project’s inclusive approach reflects CLT’s broader commitment to economic development and community engagement.
The construction process also set benchmarks for sustainability, diverting most construction waste from landfills and reusing significant portions of the existing terminal structure.
CLT’s economic impact is substantial. In 2023, the airport contributed $40 billion to the economies of North and South Carolina, supporting 5% of North Carolina’s GDP. American Airlines’ hub operations alone account for $30 billion in economic activity and 150,000 jobs statewide. The Terminal Lobby Expansion enhances CLT’s ability to accommodate continued passenger growth, which increased from 53.4 million in 2023 to 58.8 million in 2024. International travel also surged by 13% year-over-year, reflecting CLT’s expanding role in global networks.
The project is part of the larger $4 billion Destination CLT program, which includes ongoing concourse expansions, a new fourth parallel runway, and other infrastructure improvements. The runway project, supported by a $290 million FAA commitment, is the only new runway construction currently underway in the United States and is expected to further boost capacity and efficiency upon completion in 2027.
Destination CLT demonstrates a coordinated, demand-driven approach to infrastructure investment. Projects are sequenced to maximize operational benefits while minimizing disruption, ensuring that CLT remains financially self-sustaining without requiring taxpayer support.
Recent and upcoming projects include the 200,000-square-foot Concourse A Expansion Phase II, a new Delta Sky Club, and The Plaza concessions hub. These enhancements improve passenger amenities and generate revenue to fund further development.
Ground transportation improvements, led by local developer Crosland Southeast, will further enhance access and support continued growth. The airport’s integrated approach ensures that terminal, airfield, and access improvements work together to support CLT’s long-term vision.
“The Destination CLT program’s demand-driven philosophy ensures infrastructure investments align with real growth, maintaining fiscal responsibility and operational excellence.”
The completion of the $608 million Terminal Lobby Expansion marks a transformative moment for Charlotte Douglas International Airport. The project addresses long-standing capacity constraints, enhances the passenger experience, and positions CLT for continued growth as one of the world’s busiest hubs. Its success reflects effective collaboration, innovative design, and a commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
As the centerpiece of the broader Destination CLT initiative, the expansion sets a new standard for airport modernization. Its integration of technology, sustainability, and passenger-focused amenities provides a model for other airports facing similar challenges. With continued investments in infrastructure and a strategic, demand-driven approach, CLT is well-positioned to support regional economic growth and maintain its status as a leading global aviation hub.
What is the significance of the Terminal Lobby Expansion at CLT? How was the expansion funded? What are some key features of the new terminal lobby? How does the expansion impact the local economy? What’s next for CLT’s infrastructure development? Sources:
Charlotte Douglas International Airport Completes Landmark $608 Million Terminal Lobby Expansion
Historical Context and the Imperative for Expansion
Industry Context and Airport Rankings
The Terminal Lobby Expansion Project Overview
Operational Improvements and Passenger Experience
Design Innovation and Sustainability
Construction Partnership and Execution
Safety and Community Impact
Economic Impact and Broader Infrastructure Context
Integration and Future Developments
Conclusion
FAQ
The expansion is the largest infrastructure project in the airport’s history, addressing severe capacity constraints and modernizing the passenger experience while supporting future growth.
The project is part of the $4 billion Destination CLT program, funded through airport revenues, airline partnerships, and federal grants; it does not rely on local taxpayer support.
Highlights include the Queens Court gathering space, a 63-truss glass canopy, consolidated security checkpoints with Automated Screening Lanes, upgraded baggage claim, and advanced sustainability features.
CLT contributes $40 billion annually to the regional economy, with the expansion supporting job creation, economic development, and increased passenger capacity.
Ongoing projects include the new fourth parallel runway, further concourse expansions, and ground transportation improvements as part of the Destination CLT program.
Construction Dive,
CLT Airport News
Photo Credit: Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Route Development
Heathrow Ends 100ml Liquid Limit with £1 Billion Security Upgrade
Heathrow Airport completes £1 billion upgrade with CT scanners, allowing liquids up to 2L and laptops in bags for departures.
Heathrow Airport has officially announced the completion of a massive security upgrade across all four of its terminals, marking the end of the restrictive 100ml liquid limit for departing passengers. According to an official press release issued on January 23, 2026, the airport has finalized a £1 billion investment to install next-generation Computed Tomography (CT) scanners, positioning itself as the largest airport in the world to fully deploy this technology across its entire operation.
The upgrade fundamentally changes the pre-flight experience for millions of travelers. Under the new regulations, passengers departing from Heathrow can now carry liquids in containers of up to 2 liters in their hand luggage. Additionally, large electronic devices such as laptops and tablets no longer need to be removed from bags during screening. The airport states that this move will not only streamline the security process but also significantly reduce single-use plastic waste.
The core of this upgrade involves the installation of advanced CT scanners, similar to technology used in medical environments. These machines generate detailed 3D images of cabin baggage, allowing security officers to rotate and analyze the contents on-screen without requiring passengers to physically separate items.
In its announcement, Heathrow confirmed that the requirement to place liquids in clear plastic bags has been eliminated. This operational shift is expected to have a substantial environmental impact. The airport estimates that removing the plastic bag mandate will save approximately 16 million single-use plastic bags annually.
Data released by the airport suggests the new technology is already delivering performance improvements. Heathrow reported that in 2025, it was named “Europe’s most punctual hub airport.” During that period, more than 97% of passengers waited less than five minutes for security screening. Furthermore, the airport noted that its baggage load rate improved to over 98% in 2025, indicating a reduction in missed bags.
Thomas Woldbye, CEO of Heathrow, highlighted the significance of the milestone in a statement included in the press release:
“Every Heathrow passenger can now leave their liquids and laptops in their bags at security as we become the largest airport in the world to roll out the latest security scanning technology. That means less time preparing for security and more time enjoying their journey, and millions fewer single-use plastic bags. This billion pound investment means our customers can be confident they will continue to have a great experience at Heathrow.”
While the completion of this project is a major achievement for UK aviation infrastructure, it comes after significant industry-wide delays. The UK government originally set a deadline of June 2024 for major airports to install this technology. Like Gatwick, Manchester, and Stansted, Heathrow faced logistical hurdles, including supply chain issues and the need to reinforce floors to support the heavy scanners, that pushed the completion date to January 2026.
Travelers must remain vigilant regarding the limitations of this new rule. The ability to carry liquids up to 2 liters applies only to passengers departing from Heathrow. Many international destinations, as well as other airports within the UK and EU, may not have completed their upgrades. Passengers transferring through other hubs or returning to Heathrow from airports without CT scanners will still be subject to the traditional 100ml liquid limit. Consequently, purchasing large liquids duty-free or packing full-sized toiletries in carry-on luggage could result in confiscation at the return airport or a connecting security checkpoint. We recommend checking the specific security regulations of all airports on your itinerary before packing.
Do I still need to put liquids in a plastic bag at Heathrow? What is the new liquid limit? Do I need to take my laptop out of my bag? Does this apply to my return flight?
Heathrow Scraps 100ml Liquid Limit Following £1 Billion Security Overhaul
Next-Generation Security Technology
Operational Efficiency Gains
AirPro News Analysis: Context and Traveler Advisory
The “One-Way” Rule Caveat
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The requirement to use clear plastic bags for liquids has been eliminated for departures from Heathrow.
Passengers can now carry liquids in containers of up to 2 liters in their hand luggage.
No. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics can remain inside your cabin baggage during the screening process.
Not necessarily. These rules apply to departures from Heathrow. You must check the rules of the airport you are flying back from, as many still enforce the 100ml limit.
Sources
Photo Credit: Heathrow Airport
Route Development
San Francisco International Airport Opens New Operations Center with Digital Twin
SFO unveils a $250M Airport Integrated Operations Center featuring digital twin technology to centralize and enhance airport management.
This article is based on an official press release from San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has officially opened its new Airport Integrated Operations Center (AIOC), a centralized hub designed to unify critical airport functions under one roof. According to an official announcement from the airport, the facility began full operations with a celebration on January 22, 2026. The 22,000-square-foot center represents a significant shift in how the airport manages its daily logistics, moving from decentralized departments to a collaborative, technology-driven model.
Located within the newly constructed Courtyard 3 Connector (C3C), a secure building linking Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, the AIOC serves as the operational “brain” of the airport. SFO officials state that the facility brings together security, dispatch, facilities, and airline coordinators into a single workspace, enabling faster response times and better coordination during both routine operations and emergencies.
The AIOC is a primary component of the Courtyard 3 Connector project, which SFO reports has an estimated value of $250 million. The project was delivered by a design-build team led by general contractor Hensel Phelps, with architectural design by HOK and MEI Architects. The facility features 67 workstations designed to foster cross-functional collaboration, breaking down the traditional silos that often exist between different airport departments.
Beyond housing the operations center, the C3C building provides a secure post-security walkway for passengers moving between terminals. This dual-purpose design improves passenger flow while simultaneously upgrading the airport’s operational infrastructure. In line with SFO’s sustainability goals, the building is “Net Zero Energy ready” and is targeting LEED Gold certification.
A key feature of the new center is its integration of “digital twin” technology. Developed in partnership with Esri, this system creates a real-time 3D digital replica of the entire airport complex. According to the project details, this system allows staff to monitor a wide array of operational metrics, including:
The system utilizes color-coded alerts to notify staff of potential issues before they escalate. For example, the system can flag delays or early arrivals, allowing the integrated teams to reallocate resources proactively. In the event of a crisis, such as a security breach or natural disaster, the AIOC converts into a command post to coordinate a unified response among all agencies.
Mike Nakornkhet, the Airport Director at SFO, emphasized the strategic importance of the new facility in the official release:
“The AIOC is all about running the very best airport operation to deliver a consistent and seamless airport experience for our guests. Utilising a wealth of emerging technologies and historical data, the AIOC’s primary purpose is to ensure teams have the capacity to proactively monitor conditions, activate contingency plans and deploy resources.”
The opening of SFO’s AIOC highlights a broader trend in the aviation industry toward “predictive operations.” Historically, airports have operated in a reactive mode, addressing bottlenecks at security or baggage claim only after they occur. By co-locating key decision-makers and equipping them with a digital twin, SFO is attempting to transition to a model where operational disruptions are identified and mitigated before they impact the passenger. This consolidation of command and control is particularly critical for airports with constrained footprints like SFO. With limited physical space to expand, efficiency gains must come from better management of existing assets. The “digital twin” concept, while common in manufacturing and urban planning, is rapidly becoming the standard for major international hubs seeking to optimize gate utilization and turnaround times without pouring new concrete.
What is the Airport Integrated Operations Center (AIOC)? Where is the new facility located? What is a “Digital Twin”? When did the AIOC open?
SFO Unveils High-Tech “Nerve Center” to Centralize Airport Operations
A $250 Million Infrastructure Investment
Digital Twin Technology and Real-Time Monitoring
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The AIOC is a centralized facility at SFO where security, dispatch, maintenance, and airline operations teams work together in a shared space to manage airport logistics 24/7.
It is located in the Courtyard 3 Connector (C3C), a new building that connects Terminal 2 and Terminal 3.
A Digital Twin is a virtual 3D replica of the airport that uses real-time data to simulate and monitor operations, helping staff predict and prevent delays.
While the unit began initial operations earlier, the official opening celebration took place on January 22, 2026.
Sources
Photo Credit: San Francisco Airport
Route Development
United Airlines CEO Defends Gate Control at Chicago O’Hare in 2026
United Airlines commits to defending gate allocation at Chicago O’Hare amid competition with American Airlines using flight volume strategies in 2026.
This article summarizes reporting by Reuters and Rajesh Singh.
The ongoing struggle for control over Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) intensified sharply on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. During United Airlines’ fourth-quarter earnings call, CEO Scott Kirby issued a stark warning to rival American Airlines, signaling that United is prepared to aggressively defend its market share and gate allocation at one of the world’s busiest aviation hubs.
According to reporting by Reuters, Kirby explicitly stated that United is “drawing a line in the sand” regarding gate competition in 2026. The conflict centers on the airport’s “use-it-or-lose-it” leasing agreement, which reallocates gates based on flight departure volumes. With American Airlines attempting to regain ground lost in 2025, United has pledged to match any capacity increases necessary to prevent its rival from acquiring additional infrastructure.
The core of this dispute is not just about rhetoric; it is a structural battle over real estate governed by the 2018 Airline Use and Lease Agreement (AULA). As reported by Reuters, Kirby emphasized that United would add “as many flights as are required” to maintain its current gate count.
During the earnings call, United leadership highlighted a significant financial divergence between the two carriers at their shared hub. Kirby claimed that while United’s O’Hare operations generated approximately $500 million in profit in 2025, American Airlines suffered a loss of roughly the same amount at the hub. United argues that this disparity makes American’s aggressive expansion unsustainable.
The tension follows a decisive shift in airport real estate that occurred in late 2025. Due to United’s faster post-pandemic recovery and higher schedule density, the carrier triggered a lease clause allowing it to acquire five additional gates in October 2025. Conversely, American Airlines was forced to surrender four gates due to lower utilization metrics.
Current airport data indicates the following gate distribution:
“We’re not going to allow them to win a single gate at our expense.”
, Scott Kirby, United Airlines CEO (via Reuters)
Despite the financial figures presented by United, American Airlines has launched a “scorched earth” scheduling strategy to reclaim its footing. Industry reports indicate that American has added approximately 100 daily departures to its Spring 2026 schedule. The goal of this volume increase is to improve utilization metrics enough to trigger a “claw back” of gates in the next annual allocation cycle.
In addition to schedule padding, American Airlines executed a strategic real estate acquisition in late 2025. Following Spirit Airlines’ bankruptcy proceedings, American purchased two gates for $30 million, securing access outside of the city’s standard allocation formula.
The competition has spilled over into regional route networks, creating a “tit-for-tat” scenario. When American announced new service to regional markets such as Erie, Pennsylvania, and the Tri-Cities in Tennessee in early January, United responded within 24 hours by announcing identical routes. This strategy effectively floods smaller markets with capacity, preventing either carrier from establishing a monopoly.
While passengers may benefit temporarily from the lower fares resulting from this capacity dumping, the long-term implications for O’Hare are complex. The aggressive “use-it-or-lose-it” rules were designed to ensure efficient use of public infrastructure, but they currently appear to be incentivizing airlines to fly potentially unprofitable schedules solely to hoard real estate.
Furthermore, this squabble is the prelude to the massive “O’Hare 21” expansion. The carrier that commands the most market share today will likely wield the most influence over the design and allocation of the upcoming Satellite 1 and Global Terminal projects. United’s “line in the sand” suggests they view 2026 not just as a battle for current gates, but as the deciding year for the airport’s future configuration.
Sources: Reuters
United Airlines CEO Draws “Line in the Sand” in Battle for O’Hare Dominance
The “Line in the Sand”: Financials and Gate Control
The 2025 Reallocation
American Airlines’ Counter-Offensive
The Route War
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Photo Credit: Hyoung Chang – The Denver Post
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