RDU Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Airport Recent News
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know RDU Airport
Welcome to the Raleigh-Durham Airport Online Guide. Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, RDU serves as a gateway to the vibrant Research Triangle region, encompassing the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. The airport boasts two well-equipped terminals, offering a variety of services and amenities to ensure a comfortable travel experience. One unique aspect of RDU is its historical significance, having started as a training facility for World War II pilots. Whether you're embarking on a journey, touching down, or in-transit, RDU strives to provide a hassle-free and enjoyable travel experience. For further insights into other airports you may traverse during your travels, be sure to check out our complete guide to airports.
WATCH VIDEO: Experience the arrivals at Raleigh-Durham International Airport's Terminal 1 and witness a heartwarming reunion:
Airport News
Raleigh-Durham Airport (RDU) is undergoing significant improvements to enhance traveler experience. In early 2024, RDU received federal funding to expand its security checkpoints, aiming to reduce wait times and improve passenger flow. Additionally, the airport is planning to add new amenities and services as part of its ongoing efforts to modernize its facilities. These developments come alongside RDU's continuous efforts to attract more airline routes, offering travelers more options and convenience. (sources: Axios, News & Observer)
Navigating RDU's Terminals
Raleigh-Durham International Airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has 19 gates and is used by Southwest Airlines, while Terminal 2 has 36 gates and is used by all other airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
To navigate the airport terminals, passengers can follow the signs and information screens located throughout the airport. The terminals are connected by a walkway, and there is also a shuttle bus that runs between the terminals for passengers who need assistance or have a tight connection.
Both terminals offer a variety of food and beverage options, including fast food, coffee shops, and sit-down restaurants. There are also several shops and stores selling souvenirs, books, and travel essentials. Passengers can find airline departure gates by checking the information screens or asking for assistance from airport staff.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
Raleigh-Durham Airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The terminals are connected by a covered walkway that takes approximately 10 minutes to walk between the two. If you have limited mobility or heavy luggage, there is a shuttle bus available to transport passengers between the terminals. The shuttle bus runs every 10 minutes and is free of charge.
Tips from RDU Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Raleigh-Durham International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from RDU-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"If you're flying Southwest, remember that Terminal 1 is your go-to. It's smaller and easier to navigate, especially during peak hours. For all other airlines, head to Terminal 2, which is larger and has more amenities." — Emily T., Morrisville, NC, December 2023
"The walkway between the terminals is a great option if you have time and want to stretch your legs. It’s covered and takes about 10 minutes, but do use the shuttle if you're in a hurry or carrying heavy luggage." — Raj P., Cary, NC, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The GoTriangle bus is a fantastic budget option if you're traveling to downtown Raleigh or Durham. It’s reliable and much cheaper than a taxi or rideshare." — Linda K., Durham, NC, March 2024
"If you’re using a rideshare service, be aware of the designated pickup zones outside each terminal. It can be busy, so keep your app open to spot your driver quickly." — Carlos M., Chapel Hill, NC, May 2024
Parking
"For the best value, consider the Park & Ride lots. They’re less crowded, and the shuttle service is quick and efficient. It's perfect if you're planning to park for more than a day." — Nia J., Raleigh, NC, January 2024
"If you're picking someone up, use the cell phone lot. It saves you from circling the airport and is free while you wait for your passenger to arrive." — Tom B., Apex, NC, April 2024
Inside the Airport
"RDU has some great dining options. Be sure to try the local BBQ spot in Terminal 2 if you have time before your flight. It's a taste of North Carolina you shouldn't miss!" — Priya S., Garner, NC, June 2024
"Terminal 2 has a good selection of shops for last-minute gifts or essentials. Duty Free is a must if you're flying internationally." — James H., Holly Springs, NC, August 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always check your flight status on the airport’s display screens or your airline’s app. It helps avoid surprises, especially during peak travel times." — Aisha L., Wake Forest, NC, October 2024
"Security lines can get long, especially in the morning. Arrive early and consider TSA PreCheck if you travel often—it’s a real time-saver." — Mike R., Knightdale, NC, September 2024
iFly Tip: Learn how to check in faster and easier with our comprehensive check-in guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At RDU, picking up and dropping off passengers can be done at the curbside of the terminals. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, so it is recommended to use the cell-phone waiting areas instead. These areas are located near each terminal and provide a convenient place to wait for arriving passengers without having to circle the airport or park illegally.
Terminal 1 has a cell-phone waiting area located on the left side of the entrance road, just before the terminal. Terminal 2 has a cell-phone waiting area located on the right side of the entrance road, just after the terminal. Once your arriving passenger has collected their baggage and is ready to be picked up, they can call or text you to let you know they are on their way to the curbside. This will allow you to pull up to the terminal and quickly pick them up without causing any traffic congestion or violating parking regulations.
Parking Facilities & Options
When it comes to parking at RDU Airport, travelers have several options to choose from. The airport offers both on-site parking and off-site parking options to cater to the needs of all travelers.
For those who prefer on-site parking, RDU offers several parking lots and garages located near both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. The parking facilities are equipped with 24/7 security and surveillance to ensure the safety of parked vehicles.
If you are picking up someone from the airport, RDU also offers a cell phone waiting area where you can wait for your loved ones to arrive without having to pay for parking. The cell phone waiting area is located near the airport entrance and is equipped with free Wi-Fi.
RDU also provides handicapped parking facilities for travelers with disabilities. The parking spaces are located near the terminal entrances for easy access.
For travelers looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking facilities are available near RDU. These facilities offer shuttle services to and from the airport and are generally cheaper than on-site parking options.
Get details about RDU parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Travelers to the airport (RDU) have several ground transportation options to choose from.
- Car rental: Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National offering their services. The rental car facility is located adjacent to the airport and can be accessed via a shuttle service.
- Taxis: Taxi services are available at RDU, with designated pick-up areas located outside of each terminal. The fares are metered and vary based on the destination.
- Ride share services: Shared ride services such as Uber and Lyft are available at RDU, with designated pick-up areas located outside of each terminal. However, there are certain restrictions for these services, such as the requirement to have a smartphone and a valid credit card.
- Airport shuttles: Airport shuttles are available for travelers who prefer a more convenient and hassle-free option. The shuttle service operates 24/7 and can be booked in advance or on the spot. The pick-up areas are located outside of each terminal, and fares vary based on the destination.
- Public transportation: For budget-conscious travelers, public transportation options such as buses and trains are available. The GoTriangle bus service provides direct access to downtown Raleigh and Durham, while the Amtrak train service offers connections to major cities such as Charlotte and Washington D.C.
iFly Tip: Make sure your luggage is processed on time by knowing the baggage cutoff times.
Airport Hotels
Are you looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay near the airport? Look no further. We have compiled a comprehensive list of the best hotels near the airport, each offering a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and amenities. Our list includes a range of options from well-known chains like Hilton, Hyatt, and Radisson, to cozy options like Microtel Inn by Wyndham. Many of these hotels offer amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi, swimming pools, fitness centers, and on-site restaurants. Some are also pet-friendly, ensuring your furry companions can stay with you. Explore our list and find the perfect hotel to suit your needs. Ready to book now? View all Raleigh Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
If you're traveling through Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), you'll have plenty of options for dining and shopping. Popular restaurants include Salsarita's, Starbucks, and Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant, while Marshall Rousso, Duty Free, and PGA Tour Shop are just a few of the top stores. For more detailed information about these and other great options at RDU, check out iFly's comprehensive list.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Raleigh-Durham International Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, view the comprehensive list here.
Passenger Services
Raleigh RDU (RDU) is committed to providing passengers with a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Here are some of the services available at the airport:
Wifi Access: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Passengers can connect to the network by selecting the "RDU Free WiFi" option.
Lost and Found: The airport's Lost and Found office is located in Terminal 1 on the baggage claim level. Passengers who have lost an item can file a report online or in person.
Children's Areas: The airport has several play areas for children located in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. These areas are designed to keep children entertained and provide a safe space for them to play.
Special-Needs Services: RDU offers a range of services for passengers with disabilities or special needs. These include wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and TTY phones for the hearing impaired.
Banking: There are several ATMs located throughout the airport, as well as a Travelex currency exchange kiosk in Terminal 2.
Medical Help: The airport has a medical clinic located in Terminal 2 near the baggage claim area. The clinic provides basic medical services, including first aid and flu shots.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it's important to stay up-to-date with the status of your flight. At Raleigh-Durham Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status.
One of the easiest ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminals. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find your flight on the display and check the status.
Another convenient way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also sign up to receive notifications via text, email, or push notifications.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Raleigh Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
iFly Tip: Pack smarter and prepare for a smoother flight with our toddler travel guide.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is located in North Carolina, United States, serving the Research Triangle region, which includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
- Terminals: The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines. For a full list of airlines, visit the RDU Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: RDU handles approximately 30,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport operates around 400 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations from RDU are Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, Washington D.C., and New York.
- Hub Status: RDU serves as a hub for Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, providing numerous connecting flights across the United States and internationally.
Airport History
RDU Airport, also known as RDU, is located in Morrisville, North Carolina, United States. The airport first opened in 1943 as a training facility for World War II pilots. Since then, it has grown to become one of the busiest airports in the Southeastern United States.
Here are some significant events in the history of the airport:
- 1943 - Raleigh RDU opens as a training facility for World War II pilots.
- 1950s - The airport begins commercial passenger service.
- 1960s - The airport undergoes major renovations and expansions to accommodate increasing passenger traffic.
- 1970s - The airport becomes a hub for American Airlines.
- 1980s - The airport expands its international service, with flights to London and Frankfurt.
- 1990s - The airport undergoes another major expansion, adding a new terminal and parking garage.
- 2000s - The airport adds more international destinations, including Paris and Cancun.
- 2010s - The airport continues to grow, with new airlines and destinations added regularly.
Today, Raleigh-Durham Airport serves millions of passengers each year and is an important gateway to the Southeastern United States.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Raleigh Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: RDU
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 919-840-2123
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Raleigh-Durham International Airport, 2400 John Brantley Blvd, Morrisville, NC 27560, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Raleigh-Durham Airport Q&A
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