When it comes to air travel (and all the potential problems that come with it), having a short layover in Charlotte is not something to get stressed about.
- Connecting from one domestic flight to another in Charlotte can be done in as little as 35 minutes (I’ve done it).
- Connecting to an international flight from a domestic flight can be done in as little as 45 minutes.
- Connecting from an international flight to a domestic flight can easily be done with a layover time of just a one hour. That’s pushing it, but it’s definitely possible.
Of all the major hub airports in the United States, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is one of the most compact and efficient. As a matter of fact, it’s the airport I often fantasize about what I’m sprinting through ATL at top speed jumping over families with small children (O.J. Simpson style) in a desperate attempt to catch my next flight.
Table of Contents
The reason why short layovers are ok in Charlotte
The reason why Charlotte is one of the most efficient airports for making short connections in is because of its size. It wasn’t designed to be a major hub airport, therefore, there’s a limit to how many flights it can handle on a daily basis.
This greatly reduces congestion, which makes transiting through the airport much calmer process compared to others.
Also, Compared to other major hub airports (such as Atlanta and Chicago), the terminals at CLT are relatively small. Walking from one end of the terminal to the next can be done in as little as 15 minutes. If you run, it’ll only take 5.
What is the minimum layover for domestic flights in Charlotte?
The minimum layover that I would recommend in Charlotte from one domestic flight to another is 35 minutes. Honestly, you could probably do it in as little as 25, but I wouldn’t recommend it. Only those with nerves of steel should voluntarily attempt something like this.
Just know that if your inbound flight is late, and time is running short, the chances of making your connection are far greater in Charlotte than they are at other hub airports.
What is the minimum layover for international flights in Charlotte?
If I lived in the southeast, I would fly in and out of the Charlotte airport as much as I could for international flights. It’s just so darn easy (and fast) to move through when it comes to international departures and arrivals.
One of the primary reasons for this is that there is no dedicated international terminal at CLT. International flights can (and do) depart from any terminal.
Connecting TO an international flight
Connecting to an international flight from a domestic flight in Charlotte will require a minimum layover of 45 minutes. The only reason why it requires more time than a domestic to domestic connection is due to the fact that (per FAA regulations), you need to be onboard an international flight a little earlier.
Note that you will not have to go through any additional security checks when connecting to an international flight in Charlotte. Just walk to your gate and board the plane.
Connecting FROM an international flight
Connecting from an international flight to a domestic flight in Charlotte will require minimum layover of one hour. The reason why it can be done so quickly is because of the fact that the Charlotte Airport doesn’t process many international flights on any given day. It’s a relatively quick and efficient process to get through passport control and customs.
That being said, I would highly recommend a longer layover if you have the option. I’d want at least two hours to make a no-stress international to domestic connection in Charlotte, but I’ll talk more about that in a moment…
A brief overview of the terminal layout at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport
I really like the Charlotte Airport. It’s large enough to feel like a big international hub, but small enough to walk through relatively quickly.
There are five main terminals at CLT (A, B, C, D, and E). Terminal A is the only one that is broken up into two separate concourses.
All terminals and concourses are connected airside past the security checkpoints. This means that you can walk between all terminals at CLT without having to go through any additional security checks.
Pro tip: since all terminals are accessible from any security checkpoint, you can save a lot of time by choosing the security checkpoint with the shortest line and still access any gate in the airport.
Travel time between all terminals at CLT
The nice thing about the Charlotte Airport is that it’s one of the most walkable in the entire US.
I’ve walked from one end of Terminal A all the way to the tippy-top end of Terminal E in about 10 minutes. Of course, I walk at a very brisk pace, so add a few minutes if your stride (or swagger) is a bit more casual.
For reference, here’s how long it should take the average person to walk between all terminals at the Charlotte airport:
Terminal A (gates A21-29) to:
- Terminal A (gates A1-13): 3 minutes
- Terminal B: 5 minutes
- Terminal C: 7 minutes
- Terminal D: 9 minutes
- Terminal E: 11 minutes
Terminal A (gates A1-13) to:
- Terminal A (gates A21-29): 3 minutes
- Terminal B: 2 minutes
- Terminal C: 4 minutes
- Terminal D: 6 minutes
- Terminal E: 8 minutes
Terminal B to:
- Terminal A (gates A1-13): 2 minutes
- Terminal A (gates A21-29): 5 minutes
- Terminal C: 2 minutes
- Terminal D: 4 minutes
- Terminal E: 6 minutes
Terminal C to:
- Terminal A (gates A1-13): 4 minutes
- Terminal A (gates A21-29): 7 minutes
- Terminal B: 2 minutes
- Terminal D: 2 minutes
- Terminal E: 4 minutes
Terminal D to:
- Terminal A (gates A1-13): 6 minutes
- Terminal A (gates A21-29): 9 minutes
- Terminal B: 4 minutes
- Terminal C: 2 minutes
- Terminal E: 2 minutes
Terminal E to:
- Terminal A (gates A1-13): 8 minutes
- Terminal A (gates A21-29): 11 minutes
- Terminal B: 6 minutes
- Terminal C: 4 minutes
- Terminal D: 2 minutes
How long of a layover do you need in Charlotte for a no-stress connection?
Note: all the connection times that I’ve mentioned so far are a bit on the aggressive side. They are the absolute minimum layover times that I would recommend. That being said, you’re likely to feel a bit stressed trying to achieve those kinds of connection times, so here’s what I recommend for a no-stress layover at CLT:
Domestic to domestic connections
For a completely no-stress domestic to domestic layover, an hour and a half is sufficient at the Charlotte Airport. That’ll easily give you enough time to hit the food court in the central terminal, or to hang out in a lounge if you have access to one.
FYI, an hour and a half is a lot shorter than what I’ve recommended for other airports. For example:
- My ideal amount of time for a short layover in Honolulu is two hours.
- I’d also want two hours for a short layover in Orlando (which is notable since it’s a slightly smaller airport than CLT).
- Depending on which airline I’m flying, 3 hours is my minimum for a no-stress short layover in Detroit.
Domestic to international connections
For me, two hours would be an ideal layover when connecting to an international flight from a domestic flight. There aren’t any additional steps required to make a domestic to international connection in Charlotte, but you will need a little extra time to board the plane a bit early (per FAA regulations).
International to domestic connections
Call me paranoid, but to make a no-stress international to domestic connection at Charlotte, I would want three hours. I know for a fact that I wouldn’t need all of it, but then again, that’s what makes it no-stress. A three hour layover would easily be able to absorb any delays going through customs.
Tips for making really short layovers at Charlotte
The most important thing you didn’t need to know about having a short layover at CLT is that it’s going to be OK. I promise you that.
Honestly, of all the hub airports in the US to have a short connection at, Charlotte just might be at the top of my list for being the easiest and fastest to navigate through. If you’re still feeling a little stressed, here are a few tips based on my own experiences:
- Take advantage of the moving walkways! Walking at a brisk pace on the moving walkways (which are located throughout the entire airport) will easily cut down on the time estimates I’ve given above.
- Don’t waste your time trying to find something to eat in the individual terminals. Your best bet for getting quick and decent food will be in the central terminal.
- It’s always a good idea to study the terminal map of the airport before you arrive. This way, you’ll have a very good sense of where you need to go once you arrive (so you can hit the ground running).
And finally, if you’re flying American Airlines, you have even less to worry about. Since the Charlotte Airport is an American Airlines hub, missing your connecting flight is hardly ever a big deal.
They’ll automatically put you on the next one, and given the high frequency of flights in and out of CLT on a daily basis, chances are pretty good you won’t have to wait long.
AVLspotter
The best food I’ve found at CLT is the Panera in Terminal A. It’s a farther walk but Terminal A is usually deserted and seems to have been renovated more recently. Terminal E, where the American Eagle flights operate out of, is considerably less nice.
Scott (SANspotter)
I agree about that Panera! It’s definitely worth the walk if your layover is long enough.
Kelly
I used to live in the CLT region, and I can tell you from experience that the single terminal and liberal use of moving walkways makes getting anywhere at CLT a breeze. The central terminal does get a bit hectic since security dumps you right into the middle of it, but once you’re in the concourses it’s simple.
Quick tip for any other CLT travelers: security checkpoint E is often the least busy one, people think that they MUST use the checkpoint that correlates to their concourse, but in reality they all take you to the same central concourse.
Scott (SANspotter)
Thanks for that extra tip Kelly! Just another reason why CLT is so easy to fly in and out of (and make connections at).
CJ Apple
Want to fly from Munich to Orlando via Charlotte in November and have 3 options for layover time:
1. 1 h 30 min.
2. 2h 30 min.
3. 3 h 30 min.
Which is the best option, because I will stay at Walt Disney World, but won´t be able to get into the parks on day one, because I will arrive in the evening at Orlando Airport and than have to get to my hotel, too, which would take another 1 hour or more.
Good thing is that you make immigration at Charlotte Airport and can pick up your baggage in Orlando and go straight to the bus to the former Disney Magical Express area. Have to book that beforehand, but they need the flight number and arrival time first.
So I want to ask which option you would choose for a relaxed layover.
Scott (SANspotter)
Personally, I would go for the 2h and 30 minute layover. However – if you don’t mind the possibility of having to wait around for a while, the 3 hour and 30 minute layover will make it completely stress free. Have a good trip!
Rem
Is an hour connection in CLT to an international flight still doable?
Scott (SANspotter)
Should be pretty easy. All gates are connected behind security at CLT, and you won’t have to go through any additional security checks. It’s just a matter of walking from one flight to the next.
Rebecca
So I have a flight booked in January, it’s to St Lucia and our connecting airport in CLT. The layover was originally 45 minutes but of course they changed our flight info so now it’s only 35 minutes, and I’m not sure if St Lucia is considered international or not. Is that cutting it too close?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Rebecca – yes, a 35 minute connection at CLT is doable (even to St Lucia) but everything has to go right in order to pull it off. Personally, I’d suggest going back to American Airlines to see if you can change your flights around so that you’ll have a longer connection. They might not allow it since it was only a 10 minute difference, but it’s was still a dirty thing for them to do.
If you can’t get it changed, just plan for the worst and hope for the best. Good luck!
Tracy
Hello, Scott, we are looking at booking a flight next year from Charlottesville, Virginia to the Cayman Islands with a connection in Charlotte. We would have 7 am flight out of Charlottesville and there is only a 35 minute layover in Charlotte . Is that enough time for us to make our connection to the Cayman flight? Also, we would be flying back through Charlotte on the return flight? There is 55 minute layover in Charlotte before our flight back to Charlottesville. Is that enough time to get through customs or are we pushing our luck?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Tracy – I would avoid a 35 minute layover if I could. Yes, 35 minute layovers are possible at CLT, but everything is going to have to go perfectly smooth in order for you to make it. One little hang up could ruin your entire vacation!
That said, a short layover on the way home wouldn’t bother me (since the vacation is basically over at that point).
55 minutes to get through customs and immigration is going to be tight. Take it if it’s your only option, but I’d probably want something a little longer than that. Have a great trip!
Dee
Rebecca I too have a flight to St Lucia with a 35 minute layover in CLT. How did it go in your experience? I am worried about how this may go! I have heard you have to be super early to international flights which makes this way more stressful!
Matt
Howdy. I am in kind of the reverse scenario as a prior posters question…traveling from west palm beach to Munich next July. Choices for layover from Pbi to Clt are 40 minutes or 2 hours and 20 minutes. I will be traveling with another adult along with a 7 and 12 year old. Seats in row 2 on the flight to charlotte if it matters. Surprised they offer the 40 minute layover but it shows up first on the search engine (and is actually a little less expensive though price is not a big issue)
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Matt – 40 minutes will be stressful! Even if your flight from PBI is on time, the Munich flight will be boarding by the the time you arrive (you’ll barely have enough time to use the bathroom as you walk from gate to gate). If your PBI flight arrives even just a little bit behind schedule, you are going to have to hit the ground running to make the connection.
I would definitely choose the longer layover.
Dee
Hi, Scott:
You’ve covered domestic-domestic, domestic-international, international-domestic flights & connections. I was wondering if you have any tips on international-international flts & connections through CLT and the minimum layover times for a stress-free connection?
We’re going from Toronto, Ontario, Canada to St. Kitts, Caribbean, on American Airlines, through Charlotte, NC (CLT) with a 1 hr. 25 min. layover. We’ll go through USA security at the Toronto airport, but will we need to go through USA customs & security again in CLT to board the 2nd AA plane? Thus, will 1 hr. 25 mins. be enough (assuming that the 1st plane is not delayed)?
Your advice & comments have been greatly entertaining & useful.
Hoping you can help us!
Dee & Jay
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Dee! 1 hour and 25 minutes will be more than enough time for your connection at CLT (you’ll even have enough time to eat and do some shopping). As you said, you’ll go through US customs and immigration prior to leaving Toronto. At that point, your flight will arrive into CLT as any other US domestic flight would. You won’t have to go through customs and immigration again – it’ll just be a matter of walking from one plane to the next. Enjoy St Kitts! Can’t say that I’m not jealous lol…
Dee
Thank you for your speedy (!) reply, Scott!! That takes a lot of stress away for us.
LOL, gotcha ya.
Take care, be safe,
Dee & Jay
Dee
Hi, Scott: We just wanted to say that you were bang on accurate in your information above! Wow, we are impressed. This is the first blog we’ve ever made inquires on and we’re certainly glad you were able to help, considering the leap of faith that we took in you.
Thank you so much! Keep up the good work. Stay safe & happy trails.
Dee & Jay (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
Scott (SANspotter)
That’s great to hear! I’m glad everything worked out for you – and please don’t hesitate to ask if you have any questions in the future! I’d be very happy to help.
Rejean Turcotte
Hello, I will be returning from Mexico to Montreal with American Airlines on February 9, 2023. I have a transfer to Montreal at Charlotte airport. We will land at 7:20 pm and I have about 1 hour 15 minutes to get to my flight to Montreal. We will only have carry on luggage. Will I have enough time, because I think I will have to go through US customs and maybe still security with our luggage. Thank you Rejean
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Rejean – 1 hour and 15 minutes will be tight, but you shouldn’t have any issues (especially since you don’t have any checked bags). Yes, you will have to go through US customs and immigration upon arrival in Charlotte.
It shouldn’t take all that long though, as CLT usually doesn’t have many international flights that arrive at the same time. Make your way to the passport queue as fast as you can!
Rejean
Thank you very much Scott for your quick response, we will do as quickly as possible to go to immigration. Have a good day.
Bernard
Hi,
I have a flight from Montreal to Springfield, MO and will have a layover at Charlotte for 1hr. Will I need to go through customs and Immigration again in Charlotte considering that MTL airport has US customs preboarding? I will have 2 check in bags for that and do want to miss my flight. Flying with american airlines btw.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Bernard – nope, you will not need to go through customs and immigration upon arrival in Charlotte (you’ll do that before you leave Montreal). One hour will be plenty of time since the only thing you’ll have to do is walk from one plane to the next (with no security checks). Your bags will transfer automatically. Have a great trip!
Camila
Hello, I’m travelling to Mexico (Cabo) through American Airlines in July. Departing from PHL to CLT at 6:41 AM with a 40 minute layover – will that be enough? I will not have any checked bags.
I’ve also been looking at connecting through ORD (1 hr 6 min layover) and PHX (48 min layover) – all flights through American.
Any suggestion welcome! Thank you! Camila
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Camila – yes, that should be enough time since all you’ll have to do is walk from one plane to the next (there will be no additional security checkpoints to go through). You’ll be fine, but I’d personally choose the longer layover at ORD just for the added buffer.
Alli
Hi Scott. I’m really looking for some reassurance, as I’m flying alone for the first time. I’m flying from Frankfurt to Tampa, with my layover in Charlotte. My layover is exactly 4 hours. Just wanting to be sure I’ll be okay with getting my bag, customs, dropping off my bag, and then going through security again to get to my connecting flight.
I really appreciate the information from this blog post. Especially the map of the terminals!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Alli – you’ll have nothing to worry about with a 4 hour layover (other than trying to figure out what to do with all the extra time you’ll have haha). It’s likely to take no more than an hour to get through customs/immigration/check in, so just follow the signs and take it slow. Have a good trip!
Kenzie
Thank you so much for all the helpful information! We are flying from St. Lucia (UVF) to Charlotte and then on to DFW from there. We originally picked a flight with a 2-3 hour layover, but I just saw AA changed it to be an hour and 10 minute layover….
We will arrive to Charlotte at 7:15 PM and our flight to DFW leaves at 8:25 PM. We will have checked bags – so is there a chance we can make that layover or should I call AA and see what we can do about changing it?
There is another flight to DFW that leaves out at 10:49 PM so I wasn’t sure if we should try our luck with the earlier flight or just try to change it now? Thank you!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Kenzie – yeah, if AA will allow you to make the change, definitely take advantage of it! An hour and 10 minutes to make an international to domestic connection at CLT is doable, but it’s going to be tight (and stressful). It’s worth making the call IMHO.
Yanice
Hi, I will be travelling from BWI airport to Mexico City, deciding which airport should I layover at.
The CLT option has a 57mins layover (with American Airline), MSP option has a 1hr 10mins layover and ALT option has a 2hrs layover (the last 2 options are with Delta). Which one would be the best option? I personally prefer the transiting at CLT, just not sure if I can make it. Thank you very much.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Yanice – if it was me, I’d choose the 2 hour layover at ATL (simply because I don’t like having the dark cloud of a tight connection hanging over my head).
You can easily make the 57 minute connection at CLT though. Even if your inbound flight is a little late, it doesn’t take all that long to change planes in Charlotte. If that is the most convenient option for you, book it without worry. Have a good trip!
Yanice
Thank you, Scott. Another question, so 2hrs layover would be sufficient if I’m flying from BWI to ATL, then ATL to Mexico City right? How about if y return flight, from Mexico City to ATL, also a 2hrs layover, then back to BWI. Those work just fine right? Or do I need more time on my return journey since I end to go through immigration? Much appreciated for your help!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Yanice – yeah, a 2 hour layover going to Mexico from ATL will be super easy. 2 hours on the way back will be a bit more challenging – but totally doable as long as you move through the customs/immigration process as fast as you can. Having a seat near the front of the plane for the arrival into ATL from Mexico will save you lots of time – so it may behoove you to pay a little extra for a better seat.
If it makes you feel any better, I’d do a 2 hour international to domestic connection at ATL without worry. Have fun!
Yanice
Thanks so much!
Kim
Thank you so much Scott for sharing all this insider information 🙂 – it’s so helpful.
Just booked American Airlines flight from Syracuse to London UK – a connection at Charlotte with layover of 1 hr 35 m. Mostly because this was the least bad option.Feeling a bit nervous about this short window after a panic-driven sprint at JFK last year!
Do you think the 1 hr 35 m will be OK and is it worth paying extra for seats nearer the front of the Syracuse plane?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Kim – yeah, an hour and a half to make a domestic to international connection in Charlotte will be a piece of cake! You won’t have to go through security to get from one plane to the next, so it’ll be a fast and easy transfer (CLT is a lot less gnarly than JFK is). And yes, sitting near the front of the plane for your arrival into CLT will help, but honestly, it isn’t necessary for your situation. Have a good trip!
Kim
Wonderful – thank you Scott – that’s made me feel a whole lot more optimistic 🙂 [thumbs up].
Majedeh
Hello There,
My husband and I are traveling through Charlotte with a 35 minutes layover, the problem is we have two kids of 6 and 2 years old with us. Can we make it?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Majedeh – that is a very tight connection to make, but the airlines wouldn’t allow you to book it if it wasn’t possible. Having two small children with you will make it especially challenging, so in your case, I would recommend sitting near as far forward as you can on the inbound flight to Charlotte (so that you’ll be one of the first off).
If that isn’t possible, it’s worth letting the flight attendants of that flight know about your situation. Depending on how helpful they are feeling, they may be willing to ask other passengers to let you go ahead of them. Good luck!
Bobbi
Hi! We have a flight coming back from Nassau, Bahamas connecting in CLT. American Airlines said we will do customs in Nassau so we won’t need to do that in CLT and also go back through security as we recently had to coming back from Grand Cayman. Our layover is 1 hr 30 minutes. Not sure if I should believe we don’t have any of all that extra international connection stuff i mentioned. Any experience Nassau to CLT as a connection?
Thank you!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Bobbi – what they said is correct. You will go through US Pre-clearance before leaving Nassau, which means that you’ll arrive in Charlotte just the same as any other US domestic flight. It’ll simply be a matter of walking from one plane to the next – no additional security checks needed (and yes, 1:30 will be more than enough time). Have a good trip!
Heather
I’m looking at booking an AA flight from providence to CLT then onto Asheville regional to save driving time and it has a 36 min layover. I’ll be carryon only but a bit nervous never been to this airport before so hoping that would be enough to get there. I walk with purpose.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Heather – walking with purpose is what makes those 36 minute layovers possible at CLT. 🙂 While you won’t have to go through any additional checkpoints to reach your connecting gate, getting off your inbound flight in a timely manner could be a challenge. I’d recommend sitting as far forward on that flight as you can.
If it was me, I’d choose a different itinerary with a longer connection. But it’s certainly doable if it’s your only option. Wear running shoes!
Crystal
I am planning to fly from Memphis to Roanoke with a 45 minute layover in Charlotte. It seems like with no dilly dallying I will be able to make to the next flight on time (provided it is on time). My question is, what about my bag? I am going to have to check a bag, will it make it on the plane and to Roanoke when I do?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Crystal! You’re exactly right – as long as there’s no dillydallying, 45 minutes will be more than enough time.
And yes, assuming that your entire itinerary was booked all at once (and both segments are on the same airline), your bags will transfer automatically. Have a good trip!
Julie
THANK YOU!!! This was so helpful and has totally relieved my anxiety about missing my connection tomorrow. I am supposed to arrive at 2:25 pm and my departure is at 3:11 pm. I am coming from a small airport so we should be departing on time. I have to go from the far end of E to B7. I should be able to make it in 10 minutes according to your information. I walk pretty fast. The airport information said 19 minutes which had me worried. Thanks so much for this website and information.
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome Julie! Yup, you’ve got nothing to worry about if you’re a fast walker. Heck, you’d still be fine at a more leisurely pace as well (I’m sure). Have good flight!
Belle
Hello ! Is a 54 minute layover in Charlotte doable coming from Toronto Canada with connecting flight to Houston?
Scott (SANspotter)
That’ll be easy Belle! You’ll go through US customs and immigration prior to departing Toronto, so you won’t have to do anything once you arrive in Charlotte except walk to your connecting gate. No additional security checks required!
Julie
Hey Scott, I love all of this info! So I’m flying from Augusta and getting a connecting flight in Charlotte, meeting up with my sister for a trip. I will have a 50 minute layover. I’m not sure if I’ll be coming into Concourse C or E, but I will probably be leaving out of Concourse C. Assuming the first flight will be on time, can you think of any reason why I can’t do this? From what I’ve read, it shouldn’t be but a 5 to 10 minute walk if I do land in E.. Thanks in advance!
Scott (SANspotter)
50 minutes will be easy Julie! The Charlotte airport isn’t as large as some of the other major airline hubs in the US (such as ORD and ATL), so getting from one end of it to the other is fast and easy. Have a great trip!
S
Hey Scott, Thank you for all the info! I found it so helpful, really appreciate your time and effort.
Looking for any advise or tips from you. I was wondering if a 1 hr 50 min lay over is doable for an international-international flight with checked in baggage.
I am going from Toronto, Ontario, Canada to London, UK, on American Airlines, through Charlotte, NC (CLT) with a 1 hr. 50 min. layover. Would I need to collect my baggage and check it in again at CLT. If yes, what would be the minimum amount of time required to make it to my connecting flight. I am worried about any possible delays in the first flight, as it shows in my booking that its ‘Often delayed by 30+ min’.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi S – you’re very welcome! An hour and 50 minutes is plenty of time for that connection (you’ll make it easily without any issues).
You’re actually going to go through US customs and immigration prior to leaving Toronto, so you’ll arrive in Charlotte as if it’s a domestic US flight. The only thing you’ll have to do is walk from one plane to the next. There will be no security checkpoints to go through and your bags will transfer automatically.
Have a great trip!
Fray
Hi, thank you so much for all this information! I have an international flight with a 51 min layover in clt. Will that be enough time to make it to my next flight to DR? I’m traveling with my 1 year old
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Fray – you’re very welcome! If you’re coming in on a domestic flight, then yes, you’ll have plenty of time. If you’re arriving on an international flight, I don’t think 51 minutes is going to be enough time unfortunately.
I assume that you meant that you’re arriving on a domestic flight and connecting to the Dominican Republic, so in that case, you’ve got noting to worry about. Have a good trip!
Nick watts
Hi Scott
We’re travelling to tampa from lhr and we have connections both ways in ctl on the way in we have a layover of 3:30hrs with checked baggage so we’ll have to clear customs and recheck in to the domestic flight is that correct and on the way back to lhr we have a layover of 1 hour in Carl from tpa to get our international flight to lhr. Would I be correct that our bags would be checked through from tampa to lhr so it’s just a case of walking from our domestic flight through the terminal to our international flight with AA.
Do we Have we enough time both ways
Thanks
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Nick! Yes, you’ll have more than enough time to make your connections in both directions.
Upon arrival from LHR, you will first go through passport control. Then you will need to retrieve your luggage before going through customs. Once finished with that, you will have to recheck your luggage before going through the security checkpoint to get back into the terminal. 3 hours and 30 minutes is a good amount of time to have.
On the way back, you won’t have to do anything upon arrival in Charlotte. Your luggage will transfer automatically, and you can walk directly to your connecting gate (no security checks required).
Have a great trip!
nicholas watts
Thanks Scott valuable advice
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome!
Sara King
Hi there! Thanks for being so helpful!
We have a 40 min connection time at Charlotte coming from BHM and going to LHR. No checked luggage. Think we could make it or should I try to get our flights changed?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Sara! 40 minutes is going to require you to move quickly – so be prepared to hit the ground running (or at least walking fast) upon arrival in CLT. It’s a completely doable connection though thanks to how compact and easy to navigate the airport is.
I’d highly recommended sitting as far forward as you can on your inbound flight. Being one of the first off is going to save you a lot of valuable time.
Good luck!
Sally
My situation is similar to the previous one from Sara. Flying in August from Tri-Cities through Charlotte to London with only a 35-minute layover. Small plane from TRI (American Eagle) probably arriving in Terminal E, so I can get off quickly and move fast to whatever terminal (don’t know yet which — will it likely be A or could it be any one of the others?). Seems the only concern is incoming flight leaving on-time and not held up on tarmac at CLT waiting for a gate. I always thought that if the airline gave you a short layover as an option that it was certainly do-able, but I get the stress factor too! When do they typically close the boarding on international flights?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Sally – yeah, that is going to be a doozie of a connection unfortunately. It’s technically possible, but everything is going to have to go right in order to make it. Even a 10 minute delay on your inbound flight might be enough to cause you to miss the connection to London.
They typically close boarding for international flights about 15-20 minutes prior to departure, but more often than not I’ve seen them keep it open longer if they know that there are connecting passengers that are on their way.
The gate agents will know that you’re coming. You’ll make it if you hustle!
Beth G
Scott – thank you for all the great detailed guidance. I am coordinating a trip next year for 5 of us. Mostly in our 50s, no kids, but includes my 85 year old mother. We are scheduled to arrive on American from Dublin and disburse to HSV, BWI and SAN. We are scheduled for about 1 hr 40 min layover.
My concern is retrieving the checked bags and getting them checked back in again. To me that is biggest unknown – we have missed connections in LA due to being stuck at baggage claim before even getting to customs and check in again. How efficient is CLT with the baggage claim? Where exactly do we check them in again? Where exactly do we check in again for security (do we have to go back to the main ticket counter)?
The next available flight for my mom would have a 5.5 hour layover and the rest of us would have already departed leaving her on her own so my concern is high (this article has helped a lot though!)
Thank you!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Beth – you’re very welcome! From what I’ve seen, CLT is far more efficient for processing inbound international travelers compared to other large airports (such as LAX).
I think you’re going to be perfectly fine with one hour and 40 minutes. It’s been a while since I’ve experienced the international transfer process at CLT, but there should be a baggage recheck area immediately after you exit customs.
If not, you’re going to have to take your luggage to the airline ticket counter (which will be all that long of a walk). From there, you can go through any security checkpoint. All terminals and CLT are connected airside, so it doesn’t matter which security entrance you go through.
Have a good trip!
Angela James
We are flying Augusta, GA to Charlotte to Provincials, TCI. We have 1.5 hours between arrival and departure. Should we be ok? I’m booked with American so I’m hoping the arrival and departure terminals are close.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Angela – yes, an hour and a half will be perfectly fine. It’ll be quick and easy even if you have to change terminals, since there are no security checks required to move between them.
Have a great trip!
Stephanie
Hello we are traveling to Turks and Caicos in October from Omaha and the only option is a 40 min layover in clt. We have a 17 year old and an 8 and 3 year old do you think we will be okay? American said that if the connection is short the connection is usually in the same terminal?!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Stephanie – yes, that is going to be a tight connection, but getting around CLT is extremely easy compared to other large airports. Chances are good that you won’t have to walk very far to reach your connecting flight, but it’s impossible to know this far out.
Either way, I think you’ll be fine as long as you hit the ground running (or at least walking with purpose) as soon as you land.
Sharon
Hi Scott,
We are 4 adults and a 8 year old travelling from Omaha, NE to Sarasota,FL via Charlotte,NC.
We have booked our seats i don’t think its in the middle..OMG!!
We arrive at 1030am in CLT and our connecting flight is at 11am!!
Both are American Airlines…
We are so stressed :((
Any advice is appreciated..
Thank you kindly
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Sharon – yes, 30 minutes is going to be tight, but you’ll be fine as long as your inbound flight is on time. They wouldn’t have allowed you to book that short of a layover if it wasn’t possible.
You will have to hustle once you arrive at the gate though!
Honestly though, missing your connecting flight won’t to be the end of the world. CLT It’s a fairly large hub for American Airlines, and they’ll have no issues finding a way to get you to Sarasota ASAP. Good luck!
Matthew
Hello. I will be traveling with the itinerary: Frankfurt, Germany (FRA) –> Charlotte, NC (CLT) –> Rochester, NY (ROC) via American Airlines on both flights. I understand that since this is an international to domestic connection, once I arrive in CLT, I will have to go through the following process: go through passport control –> collect checked baggage –> customs –> re-check baggage –> go through security –> get to departure gate. My biggest worry here is time.
Specifically, my layover at CLT is only 1 hr 56 min. I am aware that I need to be at the gate for my CLT –> ROC flight no less than 15 minutes prior to departure. Furthermore, if my 9 hr 40 min FRA –> CLT flight is late by let’s say 30 minutes, then I’m possibly in big trouble since both of these factors combined reduce the layover time to only 1 hr 11 min. Note that I can’t re-book since FRA –> CLT –> ROC is the only itinerary that uses a single connection and this itinerary has short connection times every day of the week *sigh*.
In such a case, do you know how long it would take to get to the point of re-checking my bag? How about getting through security? Also, in your honest opinion, do you think I would be able to make this flight? It’s my first time flying with a connection, so I would really appreciate your input. Thanks!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Matthew – I honestly think you’re going to be OK. Unless you’re inbound flight is massively late, it shouldn’t take all that long to get through customs and immigration.
That said, it’s impossible to predict the time this will take. I haven’t heard any horror stories about how slow CLT has been for processing international passengers recently, so I think you have a pretty good shot at making it.
I also wouldn’t worry so much about missing your connection. People mis-connect all the time – and if that happens, American Airlines will automatically rebook you on an alternate routing. You’ll be able to see that new routing (sometimes with multiple choices) on the American Airlines app.
You’ll be fine no matter what!
Nik
I will have a 50 min connection in CLT between my flights from ORD to CUR. The flight from ORD is very early and usually has no delay. I hope everything should be OK. Otherwise, AA will need to move me to CUR via MIA.
Anyway, many thanks to Scott for valuable info. Now I know where and how to run. 🙂
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome Nik! Yeah, you’ll be fine. Even if your inbound flight is a little late, transfers at CLT are usually quick and easy. It’s why it remains at the top of my list of favorite “big” airports to make connections at.
And as you said, they won’t have any problems getting you to CUR if you misconnect. There will be lots of options (most likely through MIA).
Richard Carter
Scott: American Airlines changed my non-stop from Milwaukee to DFW and it is now a one-stop with connection from Charlotte at 10:30p.m. The layover is only 45 minutes. I am 80 years old and am not sure if I can make the connecting flight if my incoming flight is delayed in the slightest bit. Although I’ve heard AA will put you on the next flight out if you miss yours, that would be the next day! I am a heart patient and don’t need the stress. Should I scrap this trip? Thank you VERY much.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Richard – One of the benefits of being booked on one of the last flights of the day is that the gate agents will be more likely to hold the flight for you if they know you’re coming.
They will be able to see that you are coming from a connecting flight. If they know that flight is on the ground, they will give you sufficient time to arrive to the gate before closing the door. After all, they’d prefer not to put you up in a hotel either.
Yes, there is always a chance of missing your flight and having to spend the night in a hotel (at their expense). I would take the chance if I were you. After all, both Charlotte and Dallas are hubs for American Airlines, and I would be shocked if they didn’t have a way to get you to Dallas that same evening somehow.
Jolie
I have a 37 minute layover coming in from Nashville into CLT. In your opinion, is that doable? I am a fairly fast walker; I would just like some peace of mind. Thanks so much!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hey Jolie! Yeah, that’s going to be a bit of a spicy connection. It’s perfectly doable though, and there’s no other major airport in the US that I’d rather attempt it at than CLT. It’s a really easy airport to move through quickly.
You’ll make it as long as your inbound flight isn’t horribly delayed!
Daniela
Hello,
I have a 1 hr and 2 min layover coming from LaGuardia stopping in CLT and then to AUA (Aruba) flying AA both legs of the trip. Do you think this is enough time? The flight from LGA to CLT seems to run on time with rarely any delays. When does American Airlines close the gate for an international flight? Their website says to be at the gate at 30 mins for international flights but then it says boarding closes at 15 mins. I’d appreciate your input. Thanks!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Daniela – 1 hour and 2 minutes is going to be plenty of time IMHO. Domestic to international connections at CLT are really easy with American Airlines, as there is nothing extra that you’ll have to do. Simply walk from one gate to the next.
Most airlines tend to overexaggerate their boarding cut off time for international flights in my experience. Especially if they know that they have a lot of passengers coming from connecting flights. You’ll make it as long as your inbound flight isn’t horribly delayed!
Sam
Have a flight JFK->CLT 6:30-8:33, CLT-RAP 9:10-10:47. That is 37 minutes between flights. There is not another closely scheduled flight from CLT-RAP. Should I be concerned and book a 6am flight instead to get into CLT 30 min earlier?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Sam – it all depends on how much risk you’re willing to take. I’d personally choose the 6 AM flight, as it provides a little extra assurance in the case of an inbound delayed flight.
37 minute connections at CLT are definitely possible though.
Andrea
Looking at flights from BUF (Buffalo, NY) to GCM (Grand Cayman) in March my choices on outbound are a 35 min layover or a 2.5 hour layover. 3 adults, no checked bags. Leaning toward the 2.5 hour layover even though the faster I get to the island the sooner I get to hit the beach 🙂 The return is more challenging. 1 hour layover. Last flight of the day to BUF. Still no checked bags. Do have Global Entry cards though. Will they make it more doable?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Andrea – definitely take the 2.5 hour layover. The chances of mis-connecting are much higher with the 35 minute option, which could potentially screw up your entire trip.
The return sounds spicy! You likely wouldn’t even have a chance of making a one hour connection without Global Entry, but it’s still going to be really tight. But I guess who cares at that point, right? (lol). Missing a flight on the way home is a lot less stressful than missing a flight on the way to an amazing vacation IMHO.
Cheryl Patrick
We have a 42 minute layover in CLT flying domestic to international (London Heathrow). We originally had a bit longer but they changed the flight. I called American Airways when the they changed it but they won’t make a change for you unless it’s at least an hour change. We are getting married in Scotland so really need our luggage to also arrive. Leaving in a couple weeks. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Cheryl! Yeah, 42 minutes is a little spicy. You’ll make it no problem as long as your inbound flight isn’t massively delayed, but I understand your anxiety.
Anyway, my first suggestion would’ve been to call American Airlines and ask for a different flight. Since that isn’t an option, my next suggestion would be to ship your luggage ahead of time if it’s really that important (and it sounds like it is).
If not, you can always buy what you need in Scotland.
Most likely you’ll be fine though. Congrats on the marriage, and have a great trip!
Antarah
Hi there! This post has been so helpful, however, I still have some concerns about an upcoming flight. A couple days before Christmas, I will land in CLT from an international flight at 7:10pm. My connecting domestic flight takes off at 8:10pm. Do you think I will have enough time to go through customs, security, and transfer terminals? Any advice is appreciated. Thank you so much.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Antarah – one hour might not be enough time if I’m being honest. Not only is it going to take a bit of time to get off the airplane, getting through customs and immigration (and then back through security again) quickly might be difficult. You might make it, but I promise it’ll be a slightly stressful experience. I’d recommend changing your flight if you can!
carol
Hi Scott; I am planning flying from Philadelphia to Charlotte and then onto Tri-Cities, TN, by American. I cannot tell yet which gates I will be boarding and departing from, but the time between arrival in Charlotte to departure to Tri cities is only 40 minutes. I am assuming I will be changing planes once I arrived in Charlotte so my question is, 1, do you have any idea how fare the departing gate would be from American’s terminal A? and 2. I guess checking my luggage would not be a good idea, only do carry-on? Thanks
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Carol! There’s no good way of knowing in advance what gates your flights will be arriving and departing from unfortunately. However, CLT is a very efficient airport, and you can walk from one end to the other in less than 15 minutes at a fairly normal pace. All terminals and gates are connected behind the security checkpoint, so you won’t have to deal with that (which will save you a lot of time).
I wouldn’t worry about checking luggage either. 40 minutes is more than enough time for them to get your luggage from one flight to the other. This is something they do all day / every day, and it won’t be an issue. Have a great trip!
Gabriella Waller
Hello there ,
I’ve just found your website and I found it really useful.
I’m flying from Heathrow to Chattanooga on the 20th this month and have to change planes at Charlotte.
It’s my first ever flight where I have to change planes and I feel a bit worried. But after reading your post , it made me feel easier.
When I was booking my flights I had options to go via Atlanta , Dallas and Chicago.
But all those only given me a 2hr connection. And I really wasn’t sure how long it’ll take me to go through customers and collect and drop of my luggage’s ? Not even sure if I have to do that.
I’ll be travelling with my bike and some luggage’s.
So anyway , I found AA and it given me a great connection time.
I’ll be landing at Charlotte at 13.23 and the plane to Chattanooga doesn’t leave till 17.10.
And on the way back I’m landing at Charlotte at 19.32 and leaving to Heathrow at 23.29.
So both of them are longer connections , but since it’ll be my first one like this I wanted to make it safe.
Reading your post about it , it’s makes things easier for me.
Thank you so much
Gabi
Scott (SANspotter)
You are very welcome Gabi! You made the right decision by choosing to connect in Charlotte. It’s a much smaller airport than the other ones you listed, and getting through passport control and customs will be much easier. Your connection times look good too! You won’t have any issues. Have a great trip!
JT
I am flying into CLT and connecting to punta cana. American airlines only offers a connecting flight 35 minutes apart even though there are later flights I can connect with…. Is this bc they typically make the connection? I am supposed to land at 10:30am and connect at 11:05 to punta cana. But there is a 1:05 flight as well that the website doesn’t offer as an option to connect with. Advice? I’d love to stay on the flight im booked on if I knew that typically this is a makeable connection.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi JT – yes, 35 minutes is a valid connection at CLT. I understand your concern though. I wouldn’t take it if I didn’t have to! That said, it won’t be the end of the world if you miss your connection since they’ll just put you on standby for the next flight. They’ll do this automatically – you won’t have to ask them to do it for you.
Something else you could do is book two separate tickets – I do this often to get the exact flight times that I want, but it’s sometimes more expensive doing it this way. The other downside is that they won’t be sympathetic to your situation if you miss your connection. If you miss it you miss it – there’s no way of getting a refund (or being put on a later flight automatically).
Courtney
Sitting in the airport for an international flight that keeps getting delayed. I was stressing badly until I came across this article. I’ll probably still stress until I’m home, but this article has eased some of that stress. Thanks for the informative article.
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome Courtney! Hopefully you made it home unscathed.
Marc
Hello, this will be my first visit to CLT, any thoughts would be welcome…
I am flying from LHR to GRR and have been given 1 hour and 20 mins for a connection time at CLT. Do you think I’ll have enough time to pass immigration, grab a bite to each and make it to the gate or am I pushing my luck a bit? It’s just me and a carry on.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Marc – 1 hour and 20 minutes should be enough, but I wouldn’t plan on having enough time to get something to eat. Chances are pretty good that you’re going to use up most of the time getting through customs and immigration (and then security to get back into the terminal), so I highly advise bringing extra snacks just in case.
Jennifer Templeton
Hi Scott,
American Airlines first changed my flight departure from PIA to CLT (connecting to MIA) by 4 minutes later and they switched me to an earlier connecting flight with a 1 hour connection time. I accepted the change. Now they have changed the departure from PIA to CLT by 10 minutes later, but they won’t allow me to change the connecting flight to the later one, so now I have a 50 min connection time. If there is any delay from PIA to CLT (avg delay according to FlightAware is 40 min to 1 hr), I’ll have a problem. Also the CLT interactive map says time from Gate E14A to B8 (as an example) is 19 minutes. Should I insist AA give me my original later connecting flight to MIA? Thanks!
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Jennifer! I think you’ll be OK with the 50 minute connection time. I’ve been through the Charlotte Airport a bunch, and getting from concourse E to B takes a lot less than 19 minutes at a fairly brisk walking pace.
Also, keep in mind that CLT and MIA are major hubs for American Airlines. Missing your flight isn’t going to be that big of a deal IMHO – they’ll have a *lot* of options to get you to Miami if you end up misconnecting.
I highly recommend downloading (and actively monitoring) your flights via the American Airlines mobile app during your trip. If you misconnect, they will automatically put you on a different flight (you won’t have to do anything). You’ll see this information update in real via the mobile app.
Marcia
Hi Scott, am booking flight from Curacao to Denver via CLT. I have a 65 min connection time. Is this doable?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Marcia – 65 minutes is going to be really tight. I wouldn’t consider it to be impossible considering how much easier it is to go through customs and immigration at CLT (compared to other major airports), but you’re not going to have a lot of time to spare.
Eric
Hi Scott, we’re so fortunate to have you here to help with questions about CLT. You’re the best!
We booked flights from Madrid to PDX via CLT with 3.5 hours layover in January. However, AA just changed the departure time of MAD/CLT flight that leaves only 90 minutes layover at CLT. Is it too tight to go through customs and to catch the flight to PDX? Do we have to go through security check again before boarding the 2nd flight? Thank you so much for your help.
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Eric – glad to help! 90 minutes is going to be a little tight since you will have to go through the full customs and immigration process (as well as security to get back into the terminal).
I would want more time for this. If it were me, I’d probably reach out to American Airlines and ask for a longer layover. It won’t hurt to ask! Keep in mind that they will most likely tell you that 90 minutes will be enough time (and they won’t be wrong), so be prepared to be stuck with 90 minutes.
It’ll be stressful, but you’ll most likely make it. Making a 90 minute international to domestic connection at CLT will be a lot easier (and faster) than doing it at JFK, ORD, or MIA.
Good luck!
Mingu Cho
Hey Scott! Thank you for such an amazing article. Traveling with AA for the first time from LAX to JFK, and of course with a layover in CLT. Connection time only 30 mins…but based on your article, this is something to not really panic about in advance yes? Also curious in the chance of my missing the flight, DESPITE THE PATENT ATTEMPT TO RUN, will the AA put me in the next flight for free or are they going to charge me? Asking because I’m a traveler with depleting budgets oops…Hope to hear back from you soon!
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome! 30 minutes won’t be much to panic about unless your flight from LAX arrives late. You’ll make it no problem as long as your inbound flight is on time.
Actually, missing the flight won’t be a reason to panic either. Both CLT and JFK are hubs for American Airlines, with many flights daily between them. If you don’t make it (no matter how fast you try to run lol), you will automatically be put on the next flight (at no cost to you). You’ll be able to see that information via the American Airlines mobile app. They might even give you options to choose from too…
You got this!
Rocco
A 35 minute layover in CLT is fine if everything goes smoothly: your gates are close together, you don’t need to use the bathroom, your inbound flight is on-time, and the jetway operator is actually ready for your arrival. Does that sound like your typical travel experience? I have a bunch of AA miles to burn, and AA has great availability at low mileage, but I keep passing because I will not accept unreasonably short layovers. I would much rather allow 60-90 minutes, but AA rarely offers flight pairs with a longer layover, at least not on their website.
Chaz
There is a flight AA from Las Vegas ( 321-Airbus A321) CONNECTING IN CLT (320-Airbus A320) with 35 min layover to ATL flight on post thanksgiving Sunday late evening. What are my chances of making the 35 minute connection ? I’m flying solo and in good health… if I need to run fast or move rapidly or jump over furniture or children to get to my gate… O’Jay style… your article inspired me.
Scott (SANspotter)
You can do it Chaz! If your flight arrives in to CLT on time, it won’t even require any OJ-style furniture/children jumping. That said, you’re pretty much going to be screwed if it doesn’t arrive on time. Yes, American Airlines will get you to ATL on another flight – but you’ll need to be prepared to spend the night in Charlotte (at AA’s expense).
I personally wouldn’t book a connection that tight, but it’s technically possible if everything goes right. Good luck!
Macey
I’m flying AA from EWR to LAS with a 36 min connection in CLT. According to current arrival/departure gates, it’s showing arrive B7, depart D5. I will have carryover. Is this doable?
Scott (SANspotter)
Hi Macey – getting from Concourse B to D for a 36 minute connection at CLT is going to require some very brisk walking. You’ll make it without any issues if your flight from EWR arrives on time though.
If not, just be thankful that you’re in an American Airlines hub with many fights a day to Las Vegas. They’ll automatically put you on the next flight if for whatever reason you don’t make it.
Vanessa
Thanks for sharing the knowledge Scott! I am arriving at CLT next week from Central America, I have a checked bag; I’m taking back food goodies. I have a 1 hr 18 min layover at CLT. Im traveling solo, I’ve read all the comments above but still nervous. What are my chances to making it to my connecting flight on time from CLT to ORD?
Scott (SANspotter)
You’re very welcome Vanessa! I hate to say it, but the chances of making that connection probably aren’t as good as you would like it to be. One hour and 18 minutes is not a lot of time to get through passport control, customs, and then the security checkpoint to get back into the terminal.
If it makes you feel any better, I don’t think you have any chance of making it if it were Chicago, Dallas, or Miami. International to domestic connections are usually a little faster in Charlotte, so there’s a chance you’ll make it as long as your inbound flight is on time (and everything goes smoothly).
If it were me, I would be trying to find a different flight to ORD. Good luck!