Charlotte Douglas International Airport
Concourse E Expansion
Located at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Concourse E serves as a critical hub for regional operations, supporting a significant share of the airport’s daily connecting passengers through a flexible, long-term approach to growth and expansion.
LOCATION Charlotte, NC
COMPLETED 2021
SIZE 37,000 SF
PHOTOGRAPHER Clear Sky Images
DESIGN PARTNER The Wilson Group
AWARDS CSI Craftsman Award
Evolving to Meet Demand at CLT
Concourse E at CLT was originally conceived as a temporary 28-gate regional jet concourse intended to serve full carrier operations for 8 to 10 years until the 2010 masterplan introduced a permanent replacement. Over the following 15 years, sustained increases in passenger traffic led to four expansions, each adding between 4 and 10 gates and following a consistent, cost-effective design and construction approach.
Design Details
Concourse E uses economical materials while maintaining consistency with the passenger experience found in other concourses. Circulation areas and hold rooms are primarily carpeted, with terrazzo at key intersections to define movement and transitions. Ceilings are largely open, exposing MEP systems and the bow truss structure, while acoustic metal decking and HVAC components are painted white to reduce visual clutter. Exterior walls consist of foamed-in-place insulated metal panels that provide façade finish, thermal insulation, and vapor barrier within a single system, supporting efficient construction. Temporary multi-gate hold rooms, fabricated from mobile trailers, were incorporated during earlier phases of demolition and construction.
The completed expansion introduces a more open and refined environment, with 12-foot metal ceilings and integrated lighting, technology, and HVAC systems. A centrally located bar and restaurant anchor new retail and concession offerings, while two clerestory light wells bring natural daylight into circulation areas. The hold room includes integrated powered seating along with more casual seating areas designed to support a range of passenger needs, including charging, working, and relaxation.