East Terminal Expansion is now open

November 15, 2019

After multiple years of construction, Charlotte Airport opened the east terminal expansion today. The area, called “The Plaza” offers a variety of dining options. From larger franchise chains like Aunt Anne’s, Bojangles or Potbelly Sandwich Shop and Shake Shack, to North Carolina favourites like the Asheville based Wicked Weed Brewing. There is also an Apple authorized retailer (iStore), The Body Shop and a second Minutes Suites location.

With American Airlines carving out a 93% market share in 2018, Charlotte lacks airline lounges and really only offers American Airlines Admirals Club locations up until today. This is about to change in early 2020, when American Express will open a Centurion Lounge in the second floor of the Plaza. It is going to be one of the largest lounges in American Express’ network.

Prominently featured in the middle of the plaza is an artwork called “Loops” from German-born artist Christan Moeller.

The 59,000 sqft expansion cost 39 million USD to complete, and despite the Plaza also offers better access to the regional jet E concourse, one of the busiest areas of the airport.