About | charlotte-airport

In 1935, Mayor Ben Douglas persuaded the Commerce Department to build what would become Charlotte Douglas International Airport to bring airmail service to Charlotte and to provide for what he foresaw as an emerging need for air transportation. From its modest beginnings, the airport has grown significantly. The Army Air Corps signed approximately $5 million in airfield improvements over to the City of Charlotte for $17,500 following World War II. In 1953, the second passenger terminal was constructed at a cost of $2,000,000. Even after significant expansion it became obsolete by the late 1970's. It was replaced in 1982 at a cost of $64,354,860. It also underwent significant improvement projects, including the addition of 3 concourses between 1982 and 2004. The airport continues to expand accommodating the growing demand for air travel in the region and the nation.

This site explores four specific aspects of Charlotte Douglas. The pictorial history encompasses the physical development of the airport. It highlights the planning and physical landscape to illustrate the dimensions of the facility. The History of Ticket Prices examines the benefits to the average Charlotte passenger. Through the development of air infrastructure and deregulation of the commercial air industry in 1978, accessibility to air travel has increased dramatically for the average American. Charlotte versus Atlanta illustrates the meteoric growth of the airport by comparing it to its much larger regional rival in Atlanta. When examined in relation to city population, Charlotte was in a class of its own. With the exception of the early operation of Dallas, Charlotte lead the nation in passengers per 1000 population. Finally, Charlotte Douglas Today examines recent developments at the airport. Enjoy!