Aviation enthusiasts and fans of airport observation decks now have a reason to visit Charlotte.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) has officially unveiled its new permanent Airport Overlook. The 600,000-square-foot observation area boasts a wide range of amenities that are as impressive as the views.
Approximately 3 miles from the main terminal, the overlook provides an excellent vantage point for planespotters to observe the airfield, skyline, and terminal. Naturally, this is the purpose of an airport observation area. Similarly, this has been the case with CLT’s four previous overlooks, which date back to 1937.
Nonetheless, the recently developed Airport Overlook features numerous contemporary and highly appreciated amenities.
To begin with, it includes LED lighting, ample paved and accessible parking for both cars and buses, as well as an expanded staging area for food trucks. Additionally, Airport Overlook offers pet relief zones, restrooms equipped with baby changing stations, bicycle racks, picnic tables, and shaded spots to provide respite from the sun.
The site also features two aviation-themed playgrounds designed for different age groups. These playgrounds include a play-safe runway and climbable structures, like a small air traffic control tower with a slide, a miniature fuel truck, and a baggage cart.
Children and adults interested in the history of aviation and the functioning of airplanes and airports can read the informational panels. These panels provide details on the various types of aircraft operating at the airport and offer explanations on topics ranging from the principles of flight to the construction and naming of runways. Additionally, a brief history of CLT is featured.
Visitors to the overlook can also view a decommissioned U.S. military fighter jet, an F-4 Phantom II, which saw action during the Vietnam War and the Cold War. In addition, they can visit a memorial for US Airways Flight 1016, which crashed near CLT on July 2, 1994, while en route from Columbia, South Carolina, to Charlotte. The crash resulted in the deaths of 37 individuals and left at least 20 others injured.
“The importance of the Overlook to the local community is well-understood by the Airport, and we have put in significant effort to design a space that people of all ages can enjoy,” stated CLT Chief Infrastructure Officer Jack Christine. “This area includes numerous displays and features meant to educate, inspire, and create lasting memories.”
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This is the fifth observation area established by CLT. The original site dates back to 1937. The most recent site, which opened in 1989, was closed in October 2022 to pave the way for the airport’s North End-Around Taxiway and a future Fourth Parallel Runway. During construction, a temporary observation area was available.
How to locate the new Airport Overlook at CLT
The Airport Overlook at Charlotte Douglas International Airport is located approximately 3 miles west of the terminal, off Old Dowd Road, at 5130 Airport Overlook Drive. Keep an eye out for the blue and white tail sign.
At present, there is no bus service operating between the airport and Airport Overlook. However, if you wish to explore the area during a long layover or before or after your flight, taking an Uber or Lyft should be a relatively affordable option.
Charlotte’s Airport Overlook operates daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. There is no charge for admission.