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Runway 5K

2026 CLT RUNWAY 5K

Registration opens August 1st at 7:30AM

DateOctober 17, 2026
TimeFirst bus leaves at 5:15 AM.
Last bus leaves at 6:45 AM.
5K starts at 7:30 AM
LocationCharlotte Douglas International Airport
Participants will park at Charlotte Premium Outlets and ride buses to the race site within the secure airfield at Charlotte Douglas Airport.

Join us for the 19th Annual CLT Runway 5K. This flat and fast course offers runners and walkers a unique opportunity to run one of the country's busiest airport runways. This run will take place completely on the runway and taxiways. Participants will see planes queuing up, taking off, and landing. This event is one that will be enjoyed by the whole family! You must register as a runner to participate. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult. The race will be limited to 1600 participants. Proceeds from the CLT Runway 5K will help to fund Airport Opportunity Scholarships with Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) created to promote careers in aviation, as well as economic opportunities in Charlotte. The Airport scholarship will benefit students who are graduates of high schools in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School (CMS) district and are Title 1 eligible. Each recipient will attend CPCC's Summer Bridge academic enrichment program and enroll in a two-year, career-focused degree program specific to the Aviation Department.

Participants 18 and over must have a REAL ID or PASSPORT to run the race.

BAG POLICY:

Runners are not permitted to bring bags into the event. Diaper bags will be allowed but, will be subject to search.

Registration Policies

  1. All participants must show a valid Real ID or Passport to gain entry to the race area. The ID must match the information provided at registration.
  2. There are NO refunds for this race. We do allow transfers until October 10th, 2026.
  3. Race Management reserves the right to cancel or modify the event due to unfavorable conditions.
  4. Registration fees are not refundable in the event of cancellation due to "Acts of God".

Accessibility

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), a City of Charlotte department, does not discriminate on the basis of disability. We will provide auxiliary aids and services, written materials in alternative formats and reasonable modifications in policies and procedures to persons with disabilities upon request. To make a request, please contact communityengagement@cltairport.com.

Contact information

Event contact
Start 2 Finish - clt@s2fsupport.freshdesk.com