TSA wait times are now longer at CLT. Here’s what to do before going to the airport
Travelers at airports across the U.S. may be seeing longer lines at security checkpoints as the partial government shutdown stretches on.
The Transportation Security Administration says the shutdown can slow operations because many federal employees, including TSA officers, are required to work without pay until funding is restored. In some cases, increased absences and staffing shortages can lead to longer wait times at airport security.
Here’s what you need to know about checking wait times at CLT amid the shutdown.
Wait times at CLT Airport
Check real-time standard security and TSA PreCheck wait times at cltairport.com/airport-info/security.
You can also find real-time bus wait times at cltairport.com/airport-info/bus-wait-times.
How to check the status of your CLT flight
You can easily keep up with your flight by downloading the free Charlotte Airport app from the Apple App Store or Google Play, or by visiting cltairport.com/flights.
Just tap “Flights” at the bottom, search by city or airport, and use the filters to check departures or arrivals.
If you want to double-check with your airline, here are some helpful websites and phone numbers you can use to look up your flight status:
- Delta Airlines: 1-800-221-1212
- American Airlines: 800-433-7300
- Southwest Airlines: 1-800-435-9792
- United Airlines: 1-800-864-8331
- JetBlue: 1-800-538-2583
- Spirit Airlines: 1-855-728-3555
- Allegiant Air: 1-702-505-8888
You can also check the status of your flight on FlightAware by searching by flight number, origin or destination.
What to do if your flight is delayed, cancelled
If your flight gets delayed, the U.S. Department of Transportation says you can usually try switching to another flight on your airline through its website or app.
You can also ask to be moved to a different airline, but they don’t have to honor that request or reimburse you if you buy a new ticket elsewhere.
When a flight is canceled, most airlines will rebook you on the next available option for free. And if you decide not to travel because of the cancellation, you’re entitled to a full refund, even on non-refundable tickets.
CLT Airport parking
Travelers are encouraged to check out the airport’s “Don’t Wing It, Prepare to Fly!” guide for tips on parking, the Royalty Program, REAL ID rules and dining or shopping options.
Airport staff strongly recommend booking parking ahead of time at parkCLT.com or through the CLT Airport app, and try to get to your reserved spot at least 30 minutes before you head into the terminal.
Once inside, plan to arrive at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international one.
Portions of this story were previously published in The Charlotte Observer.
This story was originally published March 12, 2026 at 11:08 AM.
