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Nearly 40 million travelers came through Charlotte Douglas International Airport last year, setting a new record and marking a second consecutive year of passenger growth.
The amount is a 2 percent increase from 2010.
Charlotte Aviation Director Jerry Orr said the figure is especially noteworthy because one of the airport's runways was closed for more than two months in the fall. "It was a carefully planned project - we got everything ready to go so the minute we closed the runway the contractor worked round-the-clock straight through," Orr said.
The airport accelerated the runway project at the request of US Airways, which operates its largest hub in Charlotte. Orr notes that US Airways helped boost the passenger numbers last year by directing more routes through the city. Other airlines added flights, too.
Of the nearly 40 million travelers who came through the Charlotte airport, about 25 percent started or ended their trip in Charlotte.
But more passengers mean more pressure on the airport's facilities. A five-year, $500 million airport improvement plan is underway. Improvements include a new entrance road, hourly parking deck, baggage-claim renovations and concourse expansions. All should be finished in 2015.
"... We really have to get a running start in order to have the facility here when the people get here," says Orr.
Passengers also spent 5.5 percent more on concessions last year. New shops added included Brooks Brothers, Lacoste, Pinkberry and Big Daddy's Burger Bar. Staff Writer Steve Harrison contributed.
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