American Airlines is the largest carrier in North Carolina, operating the most flights and more than 70% of all available seats in our state. The airline operates approximately 90% of departures at Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), home of American’s second-largest hub.

According to a recent economic impact study conducted by North Carolina State University’s Institute for Transportation Research and Education (ITRE), American’s hub operation at CLT independently contributes more than $30 billion to North Carolina’s economy and supports nearly 150,000 jobs statewide.

Leaders Express Appreciation

The report was met with appreciation from state leaders, including Governor Josh Stein who said, “American’s Charlotte hub connects North Carolinians to the rest of the country and the world, contributing more than $30 billion to North Carolina’s economy and supporting nearly 150,000 jobs. North Carolina’s strong business climate and workforce continue to draw companies here, and we are grateful for the role that American plays in our success and proud that so many of their employees call North Carolina home.”

North Carolina Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger said, “The continued growth of American’s Charlotte hub underscores our commitment to fostering a robust aviation infrastructure and tax climate that not only connects North Carolina to the world but also drives substantial economic benefits across the state.”

The NC Chamber shares those sentiments and appreciates our longstanding relationship with American, a Cornerstone member. “American Airlines has continued to invest in North Carolina through capital improvements in Charlotte, relocating the PSA headquarters, and hosting a major customer service operation here,” said Gary Salamido, president and CEO of the NC Chamber. “Their investments in our state strengthen North Carolina’s infrastructure network, which bolsters our state’s economy as moving people and products safely and efficiently continues to be a critical piece of competing for jobs and investment.”

Sharing in the appreciation, North Carolina’s Speaker of the House Destin Hall said, “While Charlotte is home to the hub, every North Carolinian benefits from the connectivity and commerce it brings. This kind of infrastructure is what keeps North Carolina at the top of national rankings for business and tourism.”

American’s Investments Continue

According to the announcement, American has invested $3 billion in infrastructure projects at CLT currently underway to enhance the customer experience. This includes a modernized ticket lobby, expanded passenger security screening checkpoints, and new induction locations for checked baggage. Part of the Terminal Lobby Expansion, that work is set to be completed by the end of the year. The fourth parallel runway is expected to be commissioned in 2027 and will allow American to increase capacity to meet future demand and better serve customers.

Click here to review the full economic impact report from ITRE.