PDQ at CLT Airport: Fast Chicken in Concourse E

Shop Overview

PDQ is a quick-service dining stop at Charlotte Douglas International Airport focused on made-to-order chicken. If you’re looking for something more substantial than a snack—without committing to a long sit-down meal—PDQ is a reliable “grab it and go” option for travelers heading through Concourse E.

Expect a streamlined airport version of the brand’s core menu: crispy or grilled chicken, hearty sandwiches, salads, and shareable sides. The experience is typically fast-casual: order at the counter, customize with sauces, then take your meal to nearby seating or pack it for the gate. It’s especially popular with travelers who want a familiar, crowd-pleasing menu that works for families and picky eaters alike.

What to Buy

• Chicken tenders: The go-to order for speed and consistency—easy to eat at the gate and simple to share.
• Chicken sandwich (crispy or grilled): A filling option that travels well and is less messy than saucier meals.
• Salads with grilled chicken: Best for a lighter meal before flying; good if you’re trying to avoid heavy fried foods.
• Sides: Fries and similar sides are ideal if you need something quick to round out a meal for kids or a quick bite between connections.
• Shakes or cold drinks: Useful if you’re skipping dessert elsewhere—consider one if you have a longer wait in Concourse E.

Local specialties/airport exclusives: PDQ is a national brand, so you won’t typically find Charlotte-only menu items here. If you want a local souvenir-style bite, pair your meal with a quick stop at nearby concourse news/gift shops for North Carolina snacks.

Price comparisons: This is not a duty-free purchase, and there are no duty-free savings. Airport pricing tends to run higher than off-airport locations, so the best value is choosing a filling combo (entree + side) rather than assembling multiple small items.

Location & Hours

Exact location: Concourse E, Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT).

Directions: After clearing security, follow signs to Concourse E and look for PDQ along the main concourse corridor near the gate clusters. Concourse E can be busy with regional departures, so allow a little extra time during peak banks.

Security zone: Post-security (airside).

Hours: Airport restaurant hours can change seasonally and by flight schedule. Check CLT’s terminal directory or nearby signage day-of for the most accurate times.

Peak times: Early mornings (first departure wave), lunchtime, and late afternoon/early evening. Quieter windows are typically mid-morning and mid-afternoon between flight banks.

Shopping Tips

• Time-saving order strategy: If you’re within 30–45 minutes of boarding, stick to best-sellers (tenders or a sandwich) and avoid overly customized orders to keep things moving.
• To-go friendly picks: Sandwiches and tenders travel better than items that can steam/sog in closed containers. Ask for sauces on the side.
• Allergens and preferences: If you have dietary needs, choose grilled options and confirm ingredients with staff—airport menus can be slightly different than street locations.
• Returns/refunds: Like most airport dining, refunds or remakes are typically handled immediately and on-site—check your order before you walk away.
• Payment/currency: Expect standard U.S. payments (credit/debit and mobile pay where available). Cash is often accepted, but card is fastest during rushes.