Accessibility
Charlotte (CLT) Airport Accessibility & Wheelchair Services
Wheelchair assistance at Charlotte Douglas International Airport is provided free by your airline — request it at booking for best results. For security screening help, call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel to have a Passenger Support Specialist waiting at the checkpoint. Family lanes, service animal relief areas, and sensory rooms are covered below.
Airline-provided service
Wheelchair assistance
Request at booking or at American Airlines check-in (CLT is American's largest hub); curbside wheelchair assistants are available at all terminal entrances.
Tip: request at booking rather than at the airport — airline wheelchair assistants are in higher demand at peak times and early requests are filled first.
TSA Cares
Free security screening assistance
TSA Cares is a free helpline and on-site assistance program for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other circumstances that may affect the security screening process.
How to use: Call 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel. A Passenger Support Specialist will meet you at the CLT security checkpoint and guide you through screening at no charge.
A Passenger Support Specialist will meet you at the security checkpoint. Call 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel. CLT's single-terminal layout simplifies meeting-point coordination.
Security lanes
CLT does not have a permanently signed dedicated family lane at all checkpoints. Ask any TSA agent at the checkpoint for assistance — agents are trained to help travelers with special needs and can route you around standard queue lines.
Service animal relief areas
Before security at main terminal curbside areas; after security, a dedicated service animal relief area is in Concourse B (lower level near gate B1) and another near Concourse D — ask any CLT staff member.
Note: service animals are permitted throughout all airport areas without restriction. Emotional support animals follow individual airline policies — check with your carrier before travel.
Quiet and sensory room
CLT does not currently have a confirmed public sensory room. Contact CLT Guest Services (704-359-4013) for quiet space availability. Interfaith prayer rooms are available in the terminal.
Wheelchair and mobility device rentals
Available from Guest Services at baggage claim and at the main terminal information desk.
Motorized scooters and power wheelchairs are generally available from airlines for gate-to-gate use; contact your carrier directly if you need a motorized device beyond a standard transport chair.
Pro Tip
CLT is American Airlines' largest hub, making it one of the busiest airports for wheelchair demand during morning connection banks and afternoon peaks. Request wheelchair assistance at booking AND reconfirm with your airline 48 hours before travel to ensure an assistant is reserved for your flight.
Frequently asked questions
Is wheelchair assistance free at CLT airport?
Yes — wheelchair assistance at CLT is provided free of charge by your airline or their contracted ground handler. Request it at booking or check-in. The airline arranges and covers the cost; no tipping is required, though it is appreciated.
How do I contact TSA Cares before my flight from CLT?
Call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight. The helpline is open weekdays 8 a.m.–11 p.m. ET and weekends/holidays 9 a.m.–8 p.m. ET. You can also submit a request online at tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares. A Passenger Support Specialist will meet you at the CLT security checkpoint at no cost.
Does CLT airport have a family security lane?
Charlotte Douglas International Airport does not have a permanently signed dedicated family lane at all checkpoints, but TSA officers are trained to accommodate travelers who need extra time. Ask any TSA officer at the checkpoint for assistance; CLT's A-through-E concourses share a single main security screening area where agents can quickly accommodate special needs.
Where is the service animal relief area at CLT airport?
Before security at main terminal curbside areas; after security, a dedicated service animal relief area is in Concourse B (lower level near gate B1) and another near Concourse D — ask any CLT staff member. Service animals are permitted throughout all airport areas without restriction. Emotional support animals follow your individual airline's policies.
See also: CLT TSA PreCheck lanes · Flying with disabilities guide · CLT security tips
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