Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is getting ready for 2.75 million passengers between December 20 and January 5. This number is up 6% from last year’s holiday season. The airport will handle 25,000 takeoffs and landings during this time — 8% more than 2023. American Airlines will run most of these flights, with 13,000 planes carrying 1.3 million passengers through their hub. This comes after a busy Thanksgiving when 990,000 people came through the airport. The busiest days will be December 20, 26, and 27.

“I’m on my way to Sacramento, California, to visit my brother and his family,” said Demetri Pharr, who was caught off guard by the early holiday rush.

New improvements should help with traffic. The airport opened three inner lanes upstairs last November, and new walkways are helping reduce ground traffic.

To avoid headaches, come early. Workers recommend getting there two hours before domestic flights and three hours for international trips. Book your parking ahead — spots fill up quickly. AAA says Christmas Eve and Day should be quieter, but December 22 and the days after Christmas will be packed. American Airlines runs most flights here, handling 90% of traffic with 700 daily flights to 170 destinations. Many travelers choose late-night flights to avoid the biggest crowds.

Security lines cause the biggest delays. Checkpoint 1 is already getting backed up as holiday travel begins. More staff and better equipment are helping move people through faster. Check out the airport’s “Don’t Wing It” guide for tips on getting through security and check-in smoothly.