Overview of Raleigh Durham International Airport
Raleigh Durham International Airport, also known as RDU, is located 10 miles southeast of downtown Raleigh and 14 miles northeast of downtown Durham. It serves the Research Triangle Region of North Carolina, which includes Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill.
RDU is the second-largest airport in North Carolina, serving over 12 million passengers annually. It is home to two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with a total of 47 gates. The airport is served by 9 major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.
Travelers can take advantage of numerous amenities at RDU, including free Wi-Fi, a variety of shopping and dining options, and a wide range of ground transportation options. The airport also offers a ParkRDU loyalty program, which allows customers to earn points for parking and redeem them for free parking days.
In addition to commercial passenger service, RDU also serves as a major cargo hub for the Research Triangle Region. It is home to the FedEx Express Southeastern Hub, which is one of the company’s largest hubs in the world. RDU also features several onsite cargo carriers, including UPS Airlines and Kalitta Air.
Overall, RDU provides convenient and efficient air travel options to residents and visitors of the Research Triangle Region. With its state-of-the-art facilities, friendly staff, and comprehensive amenities, the airport is a top choice for travelers.
Terminals at Raleigh Durham International Airport
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) has two terminals – Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.
Terminal 1 is primarily used by Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Frontier Airlines. It has 19 gates and serves mainly domestic flights.
Terminal 1 also has a variety of food and beverage options such as Sbarro, Starbucks, and Auntie Anne’s. There are also plenty of retail stores to shop in, including Hudson News and CNBC News. Additionally, the terminal offers free Wi-Fi and charging stations for electronic devices.
Terminal 2 was opened in 2011 and serves as the main terminal for RDU. It has 36 gates and serves both domestic and international flights.
Airline carriers operating out of Terminal 2 include American Airlines, JetBlue, United Airlines, and Air Canada.
There are several dining options in Terminal 2, such as Bojangles, Carolina Ale House, and Bruegger’s Bagels. There are also plenty of shops, including Duty-Free Americas and Tech on the Go.
Like Terminal 1, Terminal 2 offers free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the terminal. There are also many art installations on display throughout both terminals, showcasing the local talent of the Raleigh-Durham area.
In addition to the two terminals, RDU also has an observation deck located on the top floor of Terminal 2. The observation deck provides a panoramic view of the airfield, allowing visitors to watch planes take off and land.
Overall, the terminals at Raleigh Durham International Airport offer a wide variety of amenities for travelers, making it a comfortable and convenient place to fly in and out of.
Airlines and Destinations
The Raleigh Durham International Airport is served by several airlines, including American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Southwest, United, and JetBlue.
American Airlines operates flights to various domestic and international destinations, such as Chicago, Dallas, New York, London, and Paris.
Delta offers non-stop services to cities like Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, New York, and Toronto. Domestically, they serve over 300 destinations across the U.S.
Frontier Airlines operates seasonal flights to Cancun, Denver, Miami, Orlando, and Tampa, among others.
Southwest Airlines flies to more than 60 domestic destinations, including popular spots like Las Vegas, Miami, New Orleans, and Phoenix.
United Airlines offers non-stop flights to Chicago, Denver, Houston, Newark, and Washington, D.C. They also have international routes to places like Cancun, Montego Bay, and San Jose del Cabo.
JetBlue serves destinations like Boston, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Orlando, and San Juan. Additionally, they have flights to countries in the Caribbean and Central America.
Transportation Options at Raleigh Durham International Airport
Raleigh Durham International Airport (RDU) is located in Morrisville, North Carolina, approximately 10 miles from downtown Raleigh and 15 miles from downtown Durham. The airport is a hub for several major airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, and offers a variety of transportation options for travelers.
One of the most popular transportation options at RDU is shuttle service. Several companies offer shuttle service to and from the airport, including SuperShuttle, Go Triangle, and RDU Shuttle. These shuttles provide door-to-door service and can be booked in advance or on-demand. Shuttle fares vary depending on the destination and number of passengers, but are generally less expensive than taxi or rideshare services.
Another popular transportation option at RDU is car rentals. The airport has several on-site car rental companies, including Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty. Rental car counters are located in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, and vehicles can be picked up and dropped off at the on-site rental car center. Rental car rates vary depending on the company, vehicle type, and rental duration, but can be more cost-effective for travelers who need transportation for an extended period of time.
In addition to shuttle and car rental services, RDU also offers shuttle bus service to several nearby cities, including Chapel Hill, Hillsborough, and Durham. The shuttle bus service is operated by Go Triangle and fares range from $2.25 to $4 per trip. The shuttle buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi and provide convenient transportation for travelers who need to travel outside of the Raleigh-Durham area.
For travelers who prefer public transportation, RDU is also accessible by train. The airport’s Terminal 2 is located just steps away from the Triangle Transit Authority’s Regional Transit Center, which provides connections to several regional and national train lines. Amtrak’s Carolinian and Piedmont trains stop at the Regional Transit Center, providing service to cities in North Carolina, Virginia, and beyond.
Overall, Raleigh Durham International Airport offers a variety of transportation options for travelers. Whether you prefer shuttle service, car rentals, shuttle bus service, or train service, RDU has you covered. With affordable fares and convenient transportation options, getting to and from RDU has never been easier.
Parking Options at Raleigh Durham International Airport
Raleigh Durham International Airport offers several parking options to suit various needs and budgets. The airport has four main parking lots including Premier, Central, Economy 3, and Economy 4.
Premier Parking Lot is located closest to the terminals and offers covered parking. It costs $18 per day for both long-term and short-term parking. Central Parking Lot is also close to the terminals and provides both covered and uncovered parking. The rate for uncovered parking is $12 per day, while covered parking is $15 per day.
Economy 3 Parking Lot is located off-airport, and a free shuttle service is available to transport passengers to and from the terminals. Uncovered parking costs $7 per day, while covered parking costs $9 per day. Economy 4 Parking Lot is also situated off-airport, and a free shuttle service is provided. The cost of uncovered parking is $6 per day, while covered parking is $8 per day.
Disabled parking spaces are available in all parking lots, and they are conveniently located near the shuttle stops. Additionally, electric vehicle charging stations are provided in all covered parking areas.
Check-In Procedures
At Raleigh Durham International Airport, the check-in process is designed to be as convenient as possible for travelers. Passengers can choose from various methods including online, self-service kiosks, and traditional check-in counters at the airport.
Online check-in allows passengers to check-in for their flight using their computer or mobile device. This is usually available 24 hours before the flight departure time and allows travelers to print their boarding pass or save it to their electronic device. Online check-in is perfect for those who want to save time and avoid long lines at the airport.
Self-service kiosks are available at the airport for passengers who prefer a more interactive experience. These kiosks allow travelers to check-in, select their seat, and print their boarding pass without having to interact with an airline representative. This means a more efficient check-in process and a shorter wait time.
For those who prefer a more traditional check-in process, there are plenty of counters available at the airport. Airlines provide these counters where passengers can check-in, drop-off their baggage, and speak to an airline representative if necessary. This way, travelers can resolve any issues they may have quickly and efficiently.
Overall, the check-in procedures at Raleigh Durham International Airport are designed to provide a smooth and efficient experience for all travelers. With various options available, passengers can choose the method that suits them best and enjoy a hassle-free journey.
Security Procedures and Tips at Raleigh Durham International Airport
At RDU, security procedures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and airport personnel.
Before going through security, make sure you have removed any metal objects from your pockets and placed them in your carry-on bag or a bin.
Also, remove your shoes and place them in a bin to be scanned.
Remember to pack liquids in 3.4-ounce containers or smaller and in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag for ease of screening.
It is also important to stay alert and report any suspicious activity or unattended bags to the TSA.
By following these simple tips, you can help make the security check process at RDU go smoothly and efficiently.
Customs and Immigration at RDU International Airport
For arriving passengers, customs and immigration procedures begin once they have landed and disembarked from the aircraft. They will then proceed to the designated customs area to have their passports and visa documents checked by immigration officers.
Passengers will also need to declare any items that they are bringing into the country, such as food, plants, or animals. Once all documents are verified, passengers can collect their checked baggage and proceed through customs.
Departing passengers will need to check in with their airline and go through security screening before proceeding to the immigration counter. Here, their passport and travel documents will be checked by officials to ensure that they are authorized to leave the country.
Passengers may also be asked to provide additional documentation, such as visas or proof of onward travel. Once all documents are verified, passengers can proceed to their departure gate and board their flight.
Amenities
- Food, beverage, and retail options are available throughout the terminals.
- Free Wi-Fi is offered to all passengers.
- There are charging stations located throughout the airport to keep your devices powered up.
- The airport also has pet relief areas for travelers with pets.
- ATMs and currency exchange services are available for convenience.
- Passengers can take advantage of the airport lounges for a more relaxing experience before their flight.
- There is a designated smoking area outside of the terminal for smokers.
- For those needing assistance, the airport offers wheelchairs, airport shuttles, and other accessibility services.
Accessibility Services
Raleigh Durham International Airport strives to provide a comfortable and accommodating experience for all passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
Facilities and services available include accessible parking options, wheelchair assistance, service animal relief areas, and specialized security screening procedures.
Passengers can request assistance in advance through their airline or request assistance upon arrival at the airport.
Staff members are trained to provide personalized care and support to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Connecting Flights at Raleigh Durham International Airport
If you have a connecting flight at RDU, the process is fairly straightforward. After disembarking your arriving flight, follow the signs for “connecting flights” to transfer to your next flight’s gate.
Be sure to check your boarding pass or flight itinerary to confirm which gate you need to go to for your connecting flight. If you are uncertain or have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask an airport staff member for assistance.
It’s recommended to allow for at least one hour between connecting flights to account for any unexpected delays or issues. If you have a tight connection, you may want to inform a flight attendant or gate agent on your initial flight to see if they can assist you in expediting the process at your connecting gate.
Overall, with a bit of preparation and awareness, catching a connecting flight at RDU can be stress-free and easy.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Baggage claim at Raleigh Durham International Airport is located on the lower level of the terminal. Passengers should proceed to the appropriate baggage carousel to retrieve their luggage.
If a passenger’s baggage is lost or damaged during their travel, they should immediately report it to the airline’s baggage service office located near the baggage claim area. The airline will then initiate a search for the lost luggage and provide compensation for any damages incurred.
If a passenger misplaces an item in the airport, they can report it to the airport’s lost and found department located on the lower level of the terminal. The lost and found department can also be contacted by phone or email for inquiries about lost items.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
At Raleigh Durham International Airport, emergency procedures are in place to ensure the safety of all passengers and employees. In case of an emergency, trained professionals are ready to assist with medical assistance or evacuation procedures.
The airport has a fully equipped medical facility staffed with licensed medical professionals. The facility is located within the terminal building and can be accessed quickly in case of an emergency. Additionally, there are defibrillators and first aid kits located throughout the airport for quick access.
Passengers with medical conditions are encouraged to contact the airport prior to their arrival to coordinate any special assistance they may require. The airport also has wheelchair-accessible facilities and services available.
In case of an emergency, an announcement will be made over the airport’s PA system instructing passengers on the necessary actions to take. The airport also has emergency response teams on standby to handle any situation that may arise.
Hotel Accommodations
There are numerous hotel accommodations available within or near Raleigh Durham International Airport.
Some of the top-rated hotels located within a short distance from the airport include Courtyard by Marriott Raleigh-Durham Airport/Morrisville (0.3 miles), Hyatt Place Raleigh-Durham Airport (0.4 miles), DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport at Research Triangle Park (0.7 miles), Staybridge Suites Raleigh-Durham Airport-Morrisville (0.8 miles), and Cambria Hotel Raleigh-Durham Airport (1 mile).
All these hotels offer excellent amenities that include free shuttle services, fitness centers, outdoor pools, and more.
Useful Tips:
Raleigh Durham International Airport can be overwhelming, but here are some tips to make your experience smoother.
Firstly, download the RDU Airport app for real-time flight updates, parking availability, and terminal maps.
Secondly, if you have a layover, take advantage of the free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating, and charging outlets in the Terminal 2 lounges.
Thirdly, if you’re hungry or thirsty, head to Terminal 2 where there are more food and beverage options.
Lastly, if you’re driving, book parking in advance to save money and time – there are many options available including economy, premium, and valet parking.
Contact Information
Airport Police: (919) 840-7640
Lost and Found: (919) 840-2123
Parking: (919) 840-2140
Customer Service: (919) 840-2123
TSA Lost and Found: (919) 840-7517
Baggage Claim/Baggage Services: (919) 840-2123
Airline Information: (919) 840-2123
Car Rental: (919) 840-1180
Airports Near Raleigh Durham International Airport
There are several airports within a reasonable distance of the Raleigh Durham International Airport, providing alternative flight options for travelers:
- Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO): Located approximately 90 miles west of RDU, GSO offers shuttle and taxi services to connect to RDU.
- Fayetteville Regional Airport (FAY): Approximately 75 miles south of RDU, FAY offers rental car services and shuttle bus connections to RDU.
- Wilmington International Airport (ILM): Located on the coast, approximately 130 miles southeast of RDU, ILM offers a shuttle service and car rentals for transportation to RDU.
- Richmond International Airport (RIC): Located about 160 miles north of RDU, RIC offers rental car services or Amtrak train connections to RDU.
Note that some of these airports may have limited flight options or higher fares, depending on the season and travel dates.