Runway 5K

2026 CLT RUNWAY 5K

Registration opens August 1st at 7:30AM

Race Details

• Date: October 17, 2026
• Time:
  • First bus leaves at 5:15 AM.
  • Last bus leaves at 6:45 AM.
  • 5K starts at 7:30 AM
• Location: Charlotte Douglas International Airport
• Parking: Participants will park at Charlotte Premium Outlets and ride buses to the race site within the secure airfield at Charlotte Douglas Airport.

Event Information

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!

• Registration: You must register as a runner to participate.
• Children: Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a registered adult.
• Participants Limit: The race will be limited to 1600 participants.
• Proceeds: Proceeds from the CLT Runway 5K will help to fund Airport Opportunity Scholarships with Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC).

Scholarship Information

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

• Policy: Runners are not permitted to bring bags into the event.
• Exceptions: Diaper bags will be allowed but will be subject to search.