This Major U.S. Airport Just Opened a Plane-Spotting Area Complete with a Playground and Food Trucks — Airline Ticket Not Required
The 600,000-square-foot overlook area is free and open to the public.
There’s a new way to spot planes without having to go through security in North Carolina, thanks to a recently opened 600,000-square-foot overlook area. The lookout deck, located less than two miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), is free and open to the public. It offers stunning views over the airfield, skyline, and terminal, along with several exciting aircraft-themed amenities for the whole family.
“The Airport knows how important the Overlook is to the local community and we worked diligently to create a place that people of all ages will enjoy,” CLT Chief Infrastructure Officer Jack Christine said in a statement. “This space showcases many displays and features that will educate, inspire, and create lasting memories.”
Key Features of the Overlook Area:
- Plane Spotting: Visitors can enjoy unobstructed views of the airfield and watch planes take off and land.
- Playground: The airport-themed playground includes a mini air traffic control tower with a slide and a plane-shaped climbing structure.
- Military Jet Display: A retired U.S. military fighter jet is on display.
- Aviation Exhibits: Informative exhibits detail aviation history in the Carolinas, including the types of planes that use the airport, the science behind a Boeing 747, and the process of building and naming runways.
- Food Trucks and Picnic Tables: A food truck area and covered picnic tables are available for hungry plane spotters.
Additional Amenities:
- Accessible Facilities: The overlook features accessible parking, bicycle racks, restrooms with baby changing stations, and pet relief areas.
- Memorial: A memorial to USAir Flight 1016, which crashed in 1994, is also part of the site.
This permanent lookout replaces a temporary one that was put in place after the previous overlook closed in 2022 due to airport construction.
In addition to the new overlook, Charlotte Douglas International Airport will welcome its first Delta Sky Club lounge by the end of 2024, offering travelers even more amenities.
This new overlook area at CLT is designed to be a fun and educational spot for aviation enthusiasts and families, making it a unique addition to the airport’s facilities.
