Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) will renumber its three existing runways between May and September 2026 to prepare for a new 10,000-foot Fourth Parallel Runway opening in fall 2027. The changes are required to meet FAA safety standards and to avoid confusion as CLT becomes one of the few airports with more than three same-direction runways.
Currently, CLT uses Runways 18R-36L, 18C-36C, and 18L-36R. With the addition of the new runway, renumbering will adjust magnetic headings and designations. The updated layout will include:
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18R-36L → 1L-19R
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18C-36C → 1R-19L
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18L-36R → 18-36
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New Runway → 1C-19C
Crews will repaint massive runway numbers and replace over 120 markings and signs. The updates must align with aviation charts, which are revised every 56 days.
Runway numbers reflect compass headings and are essential for pilot navigation, especially during low visibility. “It is a requirement for precision runways at commercial airports like CLT and assists pilots during poor weather and limited visibility,” said Airport Planning Project Coordinator Trent Sellers in a press release.
A 5th runway is currently drawn on the current Airport Layout Plan, to be constructed on land east of the Sullenberger Aviation Museum, but it’s unclear when construction might start on it, according to airport officials.
