Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) at a Glance

Raleigh-Durham International Airport, known locally just as RDU, is the main airport for North Carolina's Research Triangle, the region anchored by Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. It opened in 1943 and has grown into the second-largest airport in the state after Charlotte. Today it offers nonstop flights to dozens of cities across the United States, plus a growing list of international routes.

Where Is RDU Relative to Raleigh and Durham?

As the name suggests, the airport was built between the two cities rather than inside either one. It sits in Wake County, bordered by Raleigh to the north and east and by the towns of Cary and Morrisville to the south. Research Triangle Park, one of the region's big employment hubs, is close by, and Interstate 40 links the airport with both downtowns.

Terminals and Facilities at Raleigh-Durham Airport

RDU has two passenger terminals with no airside connection. Terminal 1 has nine gates, while the larger Terminal 2 has 36 gates across Concourses C and D and handles all international arrivals. To switch terminals, you can ride the shuttle bus or use the covered walkway through the parking decks.

Both terminals have free Wi-Fi, TSA PreCheck lanes and CLEAR. Terminal 2 adds airline lounges, a USO centre for military families and a currency exchange desk. Plane spotters can head to the airport's Observation Park, which has picnic areas and a playground.

Airlines Flying from RDU

Delta Air Lines holds the largest market share at RDU, and Breeze Airways serves the most destinations from its base here. Terminal 1 is home to carriers including Alaska Airlines, Avelo, Breeze, Southwest and Sun Country. Terminal 2 hosts American, Delta, United, JetBlue and Frontier, along with international airlines such as Air Canada, Air France, Lufthansa, Aer Lingus, Icelandair and Copa Airlines.

Long-haul options include nonstop routes to London, Paris and Frankfurt. Closer to home, there are flights to Canadian cities such as Toronto and to Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean.

Getting to Raleigh-Durham Airport

• Bus: GoTriangle buses, including the RDU route and Route 100, stop at both terminals and connect with the wider Triangle network.
• Taxi and ride apps: Taxis and ride-app pick-ups operate from marked zones outside baggage claim at each terminal.
• Rental cars: Rental car companies operate on or near the airport, with shuttles where needed.
• Hotel shuttles: Many Triangle hotels run free shuttles, which stop at the red kerb zones outside each terminal.

Exploring Raleigh, Durham and the Triangle

Raleigh, the state capital, is known for its free museums and lively downtown. Durham is home to Duke University and its gardens, and Chapel Hill is the home of the University of North Carolina. Rail travellers can pick up Amtrak trains from Raleigh.

Tips for Flying from RDU

The airport recommends arriving at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures. Parking can be booked online at least 24 hours ahead. Bring an empty water bottle, since filtered water stations sit near most restrooms after security.

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