CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Paying for parking at Charlotte Douglas International Airport is about to get more expensive. Airport officials announced the rate changes go into effect on Nov. 6.
For some travelers catching flights, taking advantage of the on-site airport parking is the way to go.
“For ease and convenience,” Tierra Parsons, a traveler, said. “Peace of mind. I can just park and my car is okay. I can do what I have to do, come back, and head home.”
Starting Monday, prices for all drive-up parking lots and decks are going up. The hourly deck will go from $6 per hour to $8 per hour. Daily rates will increase anywhere from $2 to $10 per day depending on the lot you use.
Michael Coffey, who was heading out on a flight Saturday, said he can get on board with the prices.
“Charlotte is becoming a big city. They are investing in the city and the airport, and it is still a value compared to other cities,” Coffey said. “Parking here is reasonable and there are a lot of options.”
Airport officials said the prices are going up because of more people traveling, along with more investments in parking programs and parking facilities. Those investments include things like the airport's parking revenue control system, which allows drivers to get real-time parking availability, and license plate recognition so those with reservations can get contactless service. It also offers more payment options, including Google Pay and Apple Pay.
Sabre Wood, who said she travels a lot for work, isn't looking forward to shelling out more cash.
“I appreciate the airport trying to make it a better space for everyone, but it also comes with chaos and rising prices,” Wood said.
She adds her biggest issue is finding an actual spot because parking lots are usually full.
“If we had better facilities where they had the light showing you where to go to or where there are openings, that might be something to add to the building,” Wood said.
For those who prefer to park their car, hop on a shuttle, and then fly, making a reservation first is strongly recommended.
“You got to travel, you want your car to be protected, and you want to be able to get in and get out," another traveler said, "so you have to pay, that’s just the way it is."
Contact Jesse Pierre at jpierrepet@wcnc.com or follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.