CHARLOTTE, NC – The winter holiday travel season is set to take off at Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Friday, Dec. 20, running through Sunday, Jan. 5. Surge in winter travel expected at CLT. Picture courtesy Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Passenger numbers are anticipated to surpass last year’s levels, with approximately 2.75 million arriving and departing passengers during the 17-day period. This represents a 6% increase from the same period last year. The peak local departure days are expected to be Friday, Dec. 20, Thursday, Dec. 26, and Friday, Dec. 27. The total number of flights is projected to reach 25,000, reflecting an 8% increase from 2023. Analysts predict unprecedented passenger numbers and a surge in flight demand. To ensure smooth operations, CLT will deploy additional staff wearing bright yellow vests to assist and guide passengers. Thanksgiving was the largest holiday crowd in CLT’s history. Approximately 990,000 passengers departed CLT Thursday, Nov. 21 – Monday, Dec. 2, a 4% increase from last year. “We knew Thanksgiving was going to be busy and we were ready,” said CLT Chief Operating Officer Jerome Woodard. “Of all the improvements put into play for this year, the opening of the three inner roadway lanes at the departures level and the two pedestrian bridges significantly reduced roadway congestion during high-peak times. A special thank you to the passengers who followed our social media for real-time updates, and our airport stakeholder partners who worked to ensure a smooth travel experience for all.” Like Thanksgiving, during peak traffic periods the inner three lanes of the departures level roadway will open to all vehicles and Airport shuttle buses will pick up and drop off passengers on the Lower/Arrivals level. Passengers can be picked up on either the upper or lower level. CLT will closely monitor the situation and adjust as needed. The Airport recommends that travelers consult CLT’s Don’t Wing It, Prepare to Fly! guide for tips on a seamless experience. Airport parking is in high demand during the holidays. Passengers should reserve a parking spot via parkCLT.com or the CLT Airport app in advance, arrive inside the Airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight, and check security and shuttle bus wait times at cltairport.com.