Charlotte’s rapid growth has put increasing pressure on its air travel infrastructure. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), ranked among the top 20 busiest airports in the world, faces rising demand, frequent congestion, and the need for greater efficiency.

To address these challenges, the airport’s 2016 Master Plan Update prioritized the construction of a Fourth Parallel Runway. This transformative project will expand airfield capacity, reduce delays, and strengthen CLT’s role as a critical hub for millions of travelers each year. Once complete, Charlotte Douglas will join a select group of airports worldwide capable of supporting four simultaneous takeoffs and landings, ensuring the airport can continue to serve the community and economy for decades to come.

A Project in Motion: Updates to Charlotte Douglas International Airport

The Fourth Parallel Runway is one component of Charlotte’s ambitious $4 billion airport modernization program, which also includes upgrades to terminals, interior spaces, roadways, and airfield infrastructure.

As part of the $1.006 billion airfield expansion, the new runway will:

• Measure 10,000 feet long by 150 feet wide
• Accommodate Aircraft Approach Category D and Airplane Design Group V aircraft
• Be positioned 1,100 feet west of Runway 18C/36C to improve airfield capacity and efficiency

Additional program elements include:

• North and South End-Around Taxiways (NEAT and SEAT) to streamline aircraft movement and minimize runway crossings
• Relocation of one mile of West Boulevard to accommodate the expanded airfield layout
• A new Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) facility to maintain emergency response standards across the larger airfield

McAdams’ Expertise in Action

Since late 2022, McAdams has partnered with Hi-Way Paving and E.S. Wagner to bring precision, problem-solving, and partnership to this complex aviation infrastructure project. Our team is providing:

• Control network management
• Roadway improvements
• Layout for electrical infrastructure, RTR sites, stormwater features, and grading

These services have been essential to advancing major project phases such as the NEAT and the new de-icing pad, both critical for improving winter operations and airfield circulation.

Navigating the intricacies of this high-profile project has presented challenges, from maintaining control points every 300 feet across extensive paving operations, to coordinating security clearance, to performing night work to minimize disruption of airport operations. Through it all, our team’s dedication and expertise have ensured steady progress.

Building Strong Partnerships and Lasting Impact

Beyond technical expertise, the success of the Fourth Parallel Runway is built on strong collaboration. McAdams’ relationship with Hi-Way Paving, E.S. Wagner, and the broader project team has only strengthened as we have worked together to advance CLT’s vision.

With construction expected to finish in 2027, McAdams remains committed to delivering solutions that not only meet project goals but also enhance the daily travel experience for millions of passengers. By helping bring the Fourth Parallel Runway at Charlotte Douglas International Airport to life, we are proud to contribute to a lasting legacy of progress for the airport, the City of Charlotte, and the communities they serve.