American Airlines extends lease agreement with Charlotte Douglas

CHARLOTTE — American Airlines has agreed to extend its lease agreement with Charlotte Douglas International Airport for a year, the airport announced Friday.

The current agreement runs through June 30, but the airport and airline have agreed to extend negotiations for up to a year while they work out a long-term agreement.

American Airlines is the largest carrier at Charlotte Douglas. The airline operates roughly 90% of all of the airport’s flights.

SEIU Workers United released a statement regarding this decision, saying:

“We are glad to see the City of Charlotte and the airlines agree to extend the current lease-term agreement up to a year on a month-to-month basis to allow for continued negotiations. We have been calling for a closer look at the terms since last year.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport is one of Charlotte’s most important public assets, and a lease agreement of this magnitude will shape airport operations, passenger experience, safety, and workforce standards for the next decade.

Additional time is an important step forward, but transparency and meaningful public input must follow. Charlotte residents have made clear they want stronger pay and working conditions for the frontline workers who keep CLT running every day. Many of these workers are still earning poverty wages without basic benefits, despite serving as the backbone of one of American Airlines’ most important and profitable hubs.

We continue to call for a formal 45-day public review period once negotiations conclude so City Council and the public have an opportunity to fully review and weigh in on the final agreement before any long-term deal is approved."

Councilwoman Dimple Ajmera also released a statement, saying:

“CLT is one of Charlotte’s most important public assets, and before the City commits to another long-term lease agreement, the public deserves time to fully understand what is being negotiated and how it could impact airport operations, workers, travelers, and the future growth of our city.

This is about transparency, accountability, and making sure we get this right for Charlotte residents and the thousands of workers who help keep our airport running every day.

I support a reasonable public review period that allows Council and the community the opportunity to ask questions, review the details, and ensure this agreement reflects Charlotte’s long-term interests. Other airports across the country have successfully utilized temporary agreements during negotiations, and we should take the time necessary to make the best possible decision for our city."

©2026 Cox Media Group