Charleston International Airport (CHS), located in North Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the main travel hubs for people visiting the city and nearby areas. The airport is operated by the Charleston County Aviation Authority and also shares its space with Joint Base Charleston under a joint-use agreement. Even with its military connection, the airport is easy to navigate and offers a comfortable experience for travelers.
Flying can already feel stressful enough, and nobody wants to deal with the last-minute confusion at the airport. But a little guidance can make the whole journey much easier. This guide covers everything you may need before arriving at Charleston International Airport to help your trip go smoothly.
Charleston International Airport (CHS) is a joint civil-military airport serving Charleston and the surrounding areas in South Carolina. The table below includes the basic details of the airport along with the relevant contact information for travelers.
| Airport Name | Charleston International Airport |
| IATA Code | CHS |
| CHS Airport Address | 5500 International Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29418, United States |
| Serves | Charleston |
| Hub For | Breeze Airways |
| CONTACT INFORMATION | |
| Charleston Airport Contact Number | +1 843-767-7000 |
| Official Website | https://iflychs.com/ |
| https://www.facebook.com/iflyCHS | |
| Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvyOKx123nki_Jx_VWBcZ9g |
| https://x.com/iflyCHS | |
| https://www.instagram.com/iflychs/ | |
| TikTok | https://www.tiktok.com/@iflychs |
| Check CHS Airport Arrivals and Departures | https://iflychs.com/passengers/flight-status/ |
Charleston Airport has one main terminal building, which makes getting around the airport simple and convenient for travelers. After passing through security, the terminal is divided into two concourses: Concourse A and Concourse B.
The central terminal area handles most passenger services and is split across two levels:
It is mainly used by Delta Air Lines and Breeze Airways, along with a few seasonal and additional flights operated by other airlines.
It serves airlines such as American Airlines, United Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue, and Frontier. It is also where all international arrivals are processed.
Since both concourses are connected inside the secure area, passengers can easily walk between Concourse A and Concourse B in around 5 to 10 minutes without needing to go through security again.
The airlines operating to and from Charleston Airport are:-
| Airline | Customer Support Number | Website |
| Air Canada | +1 (888) 247-2262 | www.aircanada.com |
| Alaska Airlines | +1 (800) 252-7522 | www.alaskaair.com |
| Allegiant Air | +1 (702) 505-8888 | www.allegiantair.com |
| American Airlines | +1 (800) 433-7300 | www.aa.com |
| Avelo Airlines | +1 (346) 616-9500 | www.aveloair.com |
| Breeze Airways | Not Available | www.flybreeze.com |
| Delta Air Lines | +1 (800) 221-1212 | www.delta.com |
| JetBlue Airways | +1 (800) 538-2583 | www.jetblue.com |
| Southwest Airlines | +1 (800) 435-9792 | www.southwest.com |
| Sun Country Airlines | +1 (651) 905-2737 | www.suncountry.com |
| United Airlines | +1 (800) 241-6522 | www.united.com |
Security at Charleston International Airport is usually pretty quick and manageable. The TSA checkpoint opens early at 3:30 a.m. and runs until about 9:30 p.m., depending on flight schedules.
On most days, passengers can expect short waits, typically around 5 to 15 minutes at the main checkpoint, and even faster if you’re using TSA PreCheck. Morning hours (around 4-9 a.m.) tend to be a bit busier, while midday and late evening are usually quicker.
To keep things stress-free, it’s best to reach the airport about 90 minutes to 2 hours before your flight, so you have enough time for check-in, security, and getting to your gate without rushing.
For live updates, you can check https://iflychs.com/.
Checking in at CHS is fairly simple and designed to save time. If you’re traveling with airlines like Alaska, American, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, or United, you may be able to check your bags even before entering the terminal.
There are curbside baggage check-in options available, including the CHS Check n’ Go service. This lets you drop off your luggage right at the curb, so you can skip the inside ticket counter lines and head straight toward security.
At Charleston International Airport, the baggage claim area is located on the ground floor in the Central Hall, right across from the passenger check-in and ticketing counters on the opposite side of the terminal. Once you come out of the arrival area, it’s well signposted, so you can easily walk straight to the right carousel and pick up your bags without any confusion.
The airport offers a number of services and facilities for the convenience of arriving and departing passengers.
Need help finding your gate, checking flight information, or just have a quick question while at the airport? The Guest Services Desk at Charleston International Airport is there to assist travelers with directions, airport information, and general support to help make your journey smoother and less stressful.
Travelers who are looking for a faster and easier airport security experience can use TSA Pre✓™ at Charleston International Airport. This expedited screening program allows eligible passengers to keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on while also leaving laptops and approved liquids inside their carry-on bags during screening.
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can apply for TSA Pre✓™ through an online pre-enrollment process followed by an in-person appointment for identity verification and fingerprinting. The program costs $85 and provides five years of membership benefits.
Travelers at Charleston International Airport have a couple of convenient mailing options. A FedEx drop-off box is located right next to the Guest Services Desk for quick package sending, while a U.S. Postal Service mail slot is also available for sending stamped letters and postcards directly from the airport.
To make traveling easier for passengers with service animals, Charleston International Airport has set up three relief areas around the terminal. Two are located outside at opposite ends of the airport, while the indoor relief area is conveniently placed after security in Concourse A near Gate A2, so travelers can access it without stepping out of the secure zone.
If you’re carrying cash but need a card for purchases, the airport has ReadySTATION cash-to-card kiosks in the ticketing area near the Frontier and American Airlines counters. These kiosks instantly load your cash onto a ReadyCard Visa, which can be used anywhere Visa cards are accepted. A $5 service fee applies for conversions up to $1,000.
For passengers managing extra bags or heavy luggage, self-service luggage carts are available near Carousel 1 in baggage claim and on the ground level of the parking garage beside the Surface Lot. Each cart rental costs $4, and returning the cart gives you back a 25-cent refund. Payments are accepted through cash and major cards, including Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
One of the most comforting features at Charleston International Airport is the Paws for Takeoff program, where trained therapy dogs and their handlers spend time walking through the terminal. These friendly dogs are there to interact with passengers and staff, helping create a calmer and more relaxed airport atmosphere while you wait for your flight.
For traveling mothers, the airport provides two private nursing suites for comfort and privacy. One is located before security in the baggage claim area between carousels 2 and 3, and the other is available after security in Concourse B.
Staying connected at CHS is easy with free airport WiFi. Passengers can simply connect using the network name CHSFREEWIFI to browse, stream, or stay in touch while at the airport.
To keep your devices powered up, the airport offers around 2,000 charging points throughout the terminal. These include both electrical outlets and USB ports, making it convenient to charge phones, tablets, and laptops anywhere you are.
If you need to reach a passenger or make an announcement, paging services are handled at the Guest Services Desk in the Central Hall. Simply request assistance from a Guest Services staff member, and they will help you with the paging process.
Travelers looking for a quieter and more comfortable airport experience can visit The Club CHS, a premium shared-use lounge located in the main concourse at Charleston International Airport. The spacious 4,400-square-foot lounge can accommodate up to 100 guests and includes six different seating zones for relaxing, working, dining, or freshening up before a flight.
The lounge is open daily from 4:10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and is available to outbound passengers with a valid boarding pass. Access is included for Priority Pass members through eligible cards like Chase Sapphire, American Express, and Diners Club International. Travelers without membership can also purchase a day pass, while AAA members receive discounted pricing. Children under 24 months can accompany a member free of charge.
| Lounge Details | Information |
| Lounge Name | The Club CHS |
| Location | Main Concourse |
| Opening Hours | Daily: 4:10 a.m. – 8:30 p.m. |
| Lounge Size | 4,400 square feet |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 100 guests |
| Access | Priority Pass members and outbound passengers with a valid boarding pass |
| Day Pass Price | $60 per person |
| AAA Member Price | $51 per person |
| Child Access | Free for children under 24 months with a member |
| Contact Number | (843) 619-3832 |
| Airline Affiliation | Not affiliated with any airline |
Charleston International Airport is designed to make travel easier and more comfortable for all passengers. In line with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the airport ensures that people with disabilities and special needs have equal access to its facilities, services, and programs.
For traveling mothers, CHS offers two private nursing suites for comfort and privacy. One is located pre-security in the baggage claim area between carousels 2 and 3, and the second is located after security in Concourse B.
All public restrooms across the terminal are fully accessible and clearly marked with international accessibility symbols. Most restrooms also include baby changing stations for added convenience. Accessible elevators are available throughout the terminal, including in both concourses and the parking garage, making movement between levels simple and smooth.
Passengers who may need extra assistance during security screening can contact TSA Cares before travel. By calling (855) 787-2227 at least 72 hours in advance, travelers can receive guidance and support to help make the screening process easier and less stressful.
Service animals are also well accommodated with three dedicated relief areas at the airport. Two outdoor spaces are located at both ends of the terminal building, while an additional post-security area is available in Concourse A near Gate A2.
All TSA security checkpoints at CHS are accessible for passengers with disabilities and medical conditions. Additional support programs are available through the Transportation Security Administration for travelers who may require special screening arrangements.
To assist passengers with mobility needs, CHS provides boarding bridges for step-free access to aircraft. Airlines also have passenger lifts available to help individuals safely board and exit aircraft when needed.
Wheelchair services can be arranged through your airline or at the curbside Skycaps located outside the terminal. It is recommended to request assistance in advance to ensure smooth support during arrival, departure, and connections.
CHS also participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which allows travelers to voluntarily indicate that they may need extra time, patience, or assistance during their journey. Wearing the sunflower symbol helps staff recognize and support passengers with non-visible disabilities.
For accessibility-related concerns or feedback, passengers can use the CRAA ADA Complaint Form available online:-
Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee before an early flight, a healthy meal, local Lowcountry flavors, or a relaxing drink before boarding, Charleston International Airport offers a diverse selection of dining options throughout the terminal.
| Restaurant/Café | Cuisine / What They’re Known For | Hours | Location |
| Burger King | Fast food burgers, Whopper, chicken sandwiches, fries | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Harvest & Grounds | Fresh coffee from King Bean Coffee Roasters, pastries, bakery café | 5:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. | Central Hall |
| Cinnabon | Cinnamon rolls, sweet treats, coffee, breakfast sandwiches | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Dunkin’ | Donuts, coffee, breakfast sandwiches | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Concourse A & Concourse B |
| Verde | Healthy salads, wraps, fresh produce, snacks | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Chick-fil-A (Airside) | Chicken sandwiches, nuggets, wraps, salads, breakfast | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Ashley Cooper Provisions | Bar, cocktails, beer, wine, traveler-friendly meals | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Kardea Brown’s Southern Kitchen | Southern & Gullah-inspired cuisine, Lowcountry flavors | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Chick-fil-A (Landside) | Chicken sandwiches, nuggets, wraps, salads, breakfast | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Hall |
| Starbucks | Coffee, specialty drinks, snacks, pastries | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Charleston Beer Works | Local beers, pub food, breakfast, lunch & dinner | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Concourse A |
| DeSano Pizza Bakery | Wood-fired pizza, craft beer, wine, spirits | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Concourse B |
| Commonhouse Aleworks | Local craft beer and beverages | 5:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Concourse B |
Charleston Airport offers a variety of retail outlets where travelers can shop for souvenirs, travel essentials, electronics, books, snacks, and locally inspired gifts. Whether you need a last-minute travel item or want to take home a piece of Charleston, the airport’s shops provide convenient options throughout the terminal.
| Shop | What You’ll Find | Hours | Location |
| Evolve by Hudson | Local souvenirs, artisan jewelry, sunglasses, apparel, luggage, travel accessories | 4:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Flight Ready Market | Grab-and-go sandwiches, snacks, beverages, self-checkout convenience store | 4:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Hudson – Discover Charleston | Travel essentials, books, magazines, snacks, convenience items | 4:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Concourse A & Concourse B |
| Hudson Nonstop | Automated convenience store with grab-and-go products and travel necessities | 4:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Sunglass Hut | Designer sunglasses and accessories | 4:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Tech on the Go | Chargers, headphones, electronics, tech gadgets, vinyl records | 4:00 a.m. – Last departing flight | Central Marketplace |
| Veranda News | Charleston souvenirs, books, gifts, memorabilia, magazines | 4:00 a.m. – 12:00 a.m. | Central Hall |
Whether you’re dropping someone off, heading out on a short business trip, or leaving your vehicle for an extended vacation, you’ll find parking facilities located close to the terminal with easy access and competitive daily rates.
The Hourly Parking Garage is the closest parking option to the terminal. The facility features two covered levels and an open-air third floor, allowing travelers to reach the terminal within a short walk.
| Feature | Details |
| Daily Maximum Rate | $21 per day |
| Hourly Rate | $3 per hour |
| Maximum Stay | 30 days |
| Lost Ticket Fee | $21 per day |
| Parking Type | Covered garage with open-air top level |
| Height Restriction | 7’11” |
| ADA Parking | Located on the second floor |
The Daily Parking Garage is designed for travelers looking for convenient long-term parking close to the terminal. The multi-level facility offers enhanced lighting, security features, and clear directional signage. Travelers who prefer uncovered parking can use the open-air top level.
| Feature | Details |
| Daily Maximum Rate | $17 per day |
| Hourly Rate | $5 per hour |
| Maximum Stay | 30 days |
| Lost Ticket Fee | $17 per day |
| Parking Type | Multi-level garage with covered and uncovered spaces |
The Economy Lot is a budget-friendly option for travelers planning longer stays. Located across from the Daily Parking Garage, it offers complimentary shuttle transportation to and from the terminal approximately every five minutes and operates around the clock.
| Feature | Details |
| Daily Maximum Rate | $13 per day |
| Hourly Rate | $5 per hour |
| Maximum Stay | 30 days |
| Lost Ticket Fee | $13 per day |
| Shuttle Service | Every 5 minutes |
| Operating Hours | 24 hours a day |
| ADA Parking | Located near shuttle pickup shelters |
The Overflow Lot serves as additional parking capacity during busy travel periods when the Economy Lot reaches capacity. It is located behind the CRAA Annex Building and provides the same convenient shuttle service to the terminal.
| Feature | Details |
| Daily Maximum Rate | $13 per day |
| Hourly Rate | $5 per hour |
| Maximum Stay | 30 days |
| Lost Ticket Fee | $13 per day |
| Shuttle Service | Every 5 minutes |
| Access Location | Porsche Boulevard / RAC Access Road |
| Availability | Open during peak travel periods and high-demand seasons |
For travelers seeking maximum convenience, Valet Parking offers curbside vehicle drop-off just steps from the terminal entrance. Upon returning to CHS, passengers can collect their vehicle at the valet service desk located near baggage claim.
| Feature | Details |
| Daily Maximum Rate | $25 per day |
| Drop-Off Service Hours | 4:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. |
| Vehicle Pick-Up | Available 24/7 |
| Location | Terminal curbside |
| Contact Number | (843) 767-7063 |
Charleston International Airport provides parking accommodations for travelers with disabilities:-
Travelers must provide one of the following:-
Note: Handicap discounts are not available for Valet Parking.
For those picking up arriving passengers, CHS offers a free Cell Phone Waiting Area where drivers can wait until their traveler is ready for curbside pickup.
| Feature | Details |
| Cost | Free |
| Capacity | 80 vehicles |
| Location | Right side of International Boulevard before the terminal area |
| Requirement | Drivers must remain with their vehicles at all times |
Payment can be made at all parking garages and lots using:-
For assistance with cash payments, travelers can use the help phone located at the exit station.
Landside Operations are handled at:-
For parking payment assistance, simply press the assistance button at the exit kiosk.
With a variety of transportation options available for every type of traveler, moving around the CHS building is quite simple. Whether you prefer the convenience of a rideshare service, the flexibility of a rental car, traditional taxi service, public transportation, or a complimentary hotel shuttle, CHS offers multiple ways to reach your destination throughout the Charleston area and beyond.
Ride-sharing services provide a convenient way to travel between the airport and your destination. Passengers can request a ride through their preferred mobile app and proceed to the designated pickup area after collecting their luggage.
| Service | How to Book |
| Uber | Request a ride through the Uber app |
| Lyft | Request a ride through the Lyft app |
| KreweCar | Request a ride through the KreweCar app |
After exiting the baggage claim area, follow the signs to Zones 1, 2, or 3. The covered rideshare pickup shelter is located across both roadways and to the right of the last sidewalk.
For travelers who prefer to drive themselves, several major rental car companies operate directly from Charleston International Airport.
Rental car counters are located at the end of the terminal beyond Baggage Claim. Vehicle returns are located on Level 1 of the airport’s five-level parking deck, with covered walkways providing easy access to and from the terminal.
| Company | Local Number | Toll-Free Number |
| Alamo | (843) 556-1255 | (800) 522-9292 |
| Avis | (843) 767-7030 | (800) 331-1212 |
| Budget | (843) 552-1771 | (800) 527-0700 |
| Dollar Car Rental | (843) 501-7163 | (800) 800-4000 |
| Enterprise | (843) 767-1109 | (800) 261-7331 |
| Hertz | (843) 767-4550 | (800) 654-3131 |
| National Car Rental | (843) 767-3078 | (800) 227-7368 |
| Thrifty Car Rental | (843) 556-1255 | (800) 522-9292 |
Taxi service is available directly outside the baggage claim area. Passengers can visit the Ground Transportation Booth, where an attendant will assist with arranging transportation and provide an estimated fare based on the destination.
Taxis are located in the center median outside Baggage Claim and are dispatched based on passenger demand.
The estimated fares are:-
| Destination | Distance | Estimated Fare |
| The Citadel | 11.5 miles | $35 |
| MUSC | 11.5 miles | $35 |
| Francis Marion Hotel | 12.0 miles | $36 |
| Charleston Place | 12.4 miles | $37 |
| South Carolina Aquarium | 12.4 miles | $37 |
| King Street & Broad Street | 13.4 miles | $40 |
| Destination | Distance | Estimated Fare |
| Citadel Mall | 7.4 miles | $22 |
| Northbridge Piggly Wiggly | 8.6 miles | $26 |
| St. Andrews Shopping Center | 10.3 miles | $31 |
| Middleton Place | 17.7 miles | $53 |
| Destination | Distance | Estimated Fare |
| Buzzards Roost Marina | 14.6 miles | $44 |
| Kiawah Island Gate | 29.0 miles | $87 |
| Seabrook Island Gate | 30.0 miles | $90 |
| Destination | Distance | Estimated Fare |
| Harris Teeter (Folly Road) | 13.8 miles | $41 |
| Fort Johnson Road | 17.1 miles | $51 |
| Oak Island Drive | 19.3 miles | $58 |
| Folly Beach | 20.3 miles | $61 |
| Destination | Distance | Estimated Fare |
| AMTRAK / Greyhound Station | 5.7 miles | $17 |
| Northwoods Mall | 7.1 miles | $21 |
| Otranto Boulevard | 9.0 miles | $27 |
| Trident Hospital | 10.7 miles | $32 |
| Destination | Distance | Estimated Fare |
| Daniel Island | 11.3 miles | $34 |
| Holiday Inn | 13.3 miles | $40 |
| Patriots Point | 14.5 miles | $44 |
| East Cooper Hospital | 16.2 miles | $49 |
| Isle of Palms | 19.9 miles | $60 |
| Wild Dunes | 23.5 miles | $71 |
| Destination | Distance | Estimated Fare |
| Goose Creek City Limits | 11.1 miles | $33 |
| Summerville City Limits | 18.9 miles | $57 |
| Moncks Corner City Limits | 26.6 miles | $80 |
Passengers traveling to Downtown Charleston can choose a shared shuttle service.
| Service Detail | Information |
| Fare | $15 per passenger |
| Departure Time | Within approximately 15 minutes |
| Service Type | Shared ride |
| Stops | May make multiple stops based on passenger destinations |
Groups traveling together to different destinations will be responsible for the total metered fare when the final destination is reached. Passengers should agree on how the fare will be divided before starting the trip.
The Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority (CARTA) operates scheduled bus service between the airport, the Tanger Outlet Center, and Downtown Charleston.
The CARTA bus stop is located in a covered, well-lit shelter just outside Baggage Claim, making it an affordable transportation option for travelers heading into the city.
Many hotels near Charleston International Airport offer complimentary shuttle transportation for guests. Hotel shuttle pickup is located outside the baggage claim area.
| Hotel | Address | Phone Number |
| Aloft | 4875 Tanger Outlet Blvd. | (843) 566-7300 |
| North Charleston Marriott | 4770 Goer Dr. | (843) 747-1900 |
| Courtyard by Marriott | 2415 Mall Dr. | (843) 747-9122 |
| Crowne Plaza | 4831 Tanger Outlet Blvd. | (843) 744-4422 |
| DoubleTree | 7401 Northwoods Blvd. | (843) 518-6200 |
| DoubleTree by Hilton Convention Center | 5264 International Blvd. | (843) 576-0300 |
| Fairfield Inn & Suites | 4841 Tanger Outlet Blvd. | (843) 300-3100 |
| Hampton Inn & Suites | 3020 W. Montague Ave. | (843) 990-5100 |
| Hilton Garden Inn | 5265 International Blvd. | (843) 308-9330 |
| Holiday Inn Express | 3025 W. Montague Ave. | (843) 554-2100 |
| Homewood Suites | 5048 International Blvd. | (843) 735-5000 |
| TownePlace Suites Airport | 5001 Fashion Ave. | (843) 990-7777 |
If you plan to use a hotel shuttle, it is recommended to contact your hotel in advance to confirm operating hours, pickup procedures, and availability, as schedules may vary by property.
Getting around Charleston Airport is simple if you have its easy-to-follow map. With clearly marked terminals, concourses, dining areas, shops, parking facilities, and transportation services, passengers can quickly find their way from check-in to boarding with minimal hassle.
To Conclude!
Charleston International Airport offers a smooth and stress-free travel experience with convenient facilities, diverse dining and shopping options, flexible transportation services, and passenger-friendly amenities. Whether you’re arriving in Charleston or catching your next flight, CHS makes every journey a little easier.
Passengers Also Inquire!
Yes. Charleston International Airport offers select international flights and also provides convenient connections to destinations worldwide through major U.S. airline hubs.
Several major airlines operate extensive schedules from CHS, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.
Yes. Charleston International Airport (CHS) serves both domestic and international travelers and is the primary commercial airport for the Charleston region.
Yes. CHS is known for its compact and passenger-friendly layout, making it easy to move between check-in, security, gates, baggage claim, dining areas, and transportation services.
The official airport code for Charleston International Airport is CHS.