Complete Guide to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) isn’t just where a journey begins and ends; it’s a gateway to the world, and one of the best international airports I’ve come across (and I’ve traveled to over 50 countries, so I know a good one).

Located next to the Research Triangle Park, RDU is well connected to the main town’s and cities in Wake County, being almost central to Raleigh, Durham, and the tech-thrumming corridors of Cary.

Whether you’re using RDU as a layover or a launchpad, this guide tells you everything you need to know about RDU, from what to do before boarding, to where to grab the best biscuits and coffee, to our tips for checking in smoothly.

We’ve been flying in and out of Raleigh-Durham Airport since 2004 and its typically a pleasing experience compared to most other bigger and more chaotic airports across the US. 

The whole process of getting to RDU, finding parking, to check-in, to getting through security and to our boarding gates is generally smooth and stress-free.  We’ve also recorded a podcast episode about international flights from RDU. You’ll find it at the bottom of the post.

About Raleigh Durham International Airport

Officially known as Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), our local airport is located exactly halfway between the cities of Raleigh and Durham, about a 20-25 minute drive from downtown Raleigh and downtown Durham.

In case you’re from out of town and don’t know the area, “Raleigh-Durham” isn’t an actual place, Raleigh and Durham are two individual cities and the locals from each city tend to get upset if you refer to Raleigh as Raleigh-Durham and vice versa – in a fun kind of way! It’s just the name of the airport that is strategically located midway between them. 

RDU is the main airport that serves not only the city of Raleigh and Durham, but also nearby Chapel Hill, as well as all the small towns in Wake County. Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill are the three cities make up what’s known as the Triangle Area – the name comes from the shape formed by connecting these three cities on a map. 

It’s also the main airport serving central and eastern North Carolina, and southern Virginia, and is known for its modern facilities. It has won several awards for its sustainability initiatives and commitment to reducing its environmental impact.

RDU is home to both major and regional air carriers such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and JetBlue Airways.

Quick facts

• Location: Wake County, North Carolina
  • 11 miles northwest of Raleigh
  • 10.5 miles southeast of Durham
  • 17 miles east-southeast of Chapel Hill
• Code: RDU
• Size: 5,000 acres
• Flights: Around 360 daily arrivals and departures
• Non-stop Destinations: 79 destinations (63 domestic, 16 international)
• Airlines: 17 major airlines
• Terminals: 1 and 2
• Runways: 3

Is RDU a small airport?

Raleigh–Durham International Airport covers an area of around 5,000 acres, making it the second-largest airport in North Carolina, behind Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Nationally would be considered a mid-sized airport. 

Because RDU is not as large as some of the major airports such as Atlanta or Los Angeles it’s easier to navigate and less overwhelming for travelers.

Considering more than half of the US population lives within a day’s drive or an hour’s flight of RDU, and that Wake County is growing by 60+ residents per day, it ranks as one of the nation’s fastest-growing airports!

Overall, the airport is nicely laid out, very clean and orderly, and it’s no surprise to me that RDU consistently ranks among one of the most efficient airports in America.

I was shocked when some locals stated that they didn’t know that RDU is an international airport, even though the official name has “international” in it.

And with the number of RDU flights increasing over the years as this region continues to grow, the airport and the number of destinations it serves are just getting bigger.

In 2025, more flights to the Caribbean and Central America have been added, and in 2024, RDU started offering more flights to Europe and Canada.

If you want to fly further afield, there are currently non-stop RDU international flights to these destinations:

• Bermuda/St. George’s
• Cancun
• Calgary
• Dublin (starting April 2026)
• Frankfurt
• London
• Mexico City
• Montego Bay, Jamaica
• Montreal
• Nassau, Bahamas
• Panama City
• Paris
• Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• San Juan
• Toronto
• Vancouver

Two international destinations with direct flights from Raleigh made our Raleigh spring break destinations hotspots list! Be sure to check our international travel blog before you travel as we probably have a destination guide to suit. Some include Dublin, Calgary, London, Mexico City, Paris, Iceland, and Toronto.

Within the U.S., Raleigh serves most major cities. Domestic non-stop destinations currently include:

• Akron
• Albany
• Atlanta
• Austin
• Baltimore-Washington
• Boston
• Buffalo
• Burlington
• Charlotte
• Chicago-Midway
• Chicago-O’hare
• Cincinnati
• Columbus
• Dallas-Fort Worth
• Dallas-Love Field
• Daytona Beach
• Denver
• Detroit
• Fort Lauderdale
• Fort Myers
• Grand Rapids
• Hartford
• Houston-Bush
• Houston-Hobby
• Islip
• Jacksonville
• Kansas City
• Key West
• Las Vegas
• Los Angeles
• Louisville
• Manchester
• Memphis
• Miami
• Minneapolis
• Nashville
• New Haven
• New Orleans
• Newark
• New York-Kennedy
• New York-LaGuardia
• Ogdensburg
• Orlando
• Pensacola
• Philadelphia
• Phoenix
• Pittsburgh
• Portland
• Portsmouth
• Providence
• Rochester, NY
• Salt Lake City
• San Francisco
• Sarasota
• Seattle
• St. Louis
• Syracuse
• Tampa
• Washington-Dulles
• Washington-Reagan
• West Palm Beach
• White Plains
• Wilmington

Getting to and from RDU International Airport

RDU Airport is conveniently located between Raleigh and Durham, which makes it easily accessible to both cities, plus being located near several major highways makes it easy to get to from other parts of North Carolina.

Interstate 40, which starts in Wilmington, NC and goes all the way to California, passes close by to Raleigh-Durham Airport, as does Interstate 540 and Highway 70 – making it easy to get to by car from downtown Raleigh, Durham or further afield in North Carolina.

Directions to Raleigh-Durham Airport

From downtown Raleigh:

1. Head west on W Edenton St toward S McDowell St.
2. Turn right onto S Dawson St.
3. Turn left onto Western Blvd.
4. Merge onto I-40 W via the ramp on the left toward Durham.
5. Take exit 284-A for Airport Boulevard toward RDU International Airport.
6. Keep left at the fork, follow signs for RDU International Airport and merge onto Airport Blvd.
7. Follow signs for your airline terminal and parking.

This drive should take approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the day of week and traffic.

From downtown Durham:

1. Head east on West Main Street toward North Market Street.
2. Turn left onto North Duke Street.
3. After a mile, turn right onto East Club Boulevard.
4. Continue straight onto S Alston Avenue for about 3 miles.
5. Merge onto NC-147 S toward Research Triangle Park/Raleigh.
6. Stay on NC-147 S for approximately 6 miles.
7. Take the exit onto I-40 E toward Raleigh.
8. After 4 miles, take Exit 284A for Airport Boulevard.
9. Merge onto Airport Boulevard and continue for about 2 miles.
10. Follow signs to the airport terminal.

Again, this drive should take approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on the day of week and traffic.

• Address – Terminal 1: 1600 John Brantley Blvd, Morrisville, NC 27560
• Address – Terminal 2: 2400 John Brantley Blvd, Morrisville, NC 27560

Ways to get to RDU besides driving

• Uber & Lyft – are authorized to operate from RDU, and those ride-share drivers pick up passengers from the prearranged services area that is easy to find from baggage claim: zone one at Terminal 1, and zone 8 at Terminal 2
• Buses – The GoTriangle bus Route 100 provides public bus service from RDU to its Regional Transit Center, where riders can connect to bus routes throughout the region.
• Taxis – RDU Taxi is the only authorized taxi service from RDU. Taxis are available on the terminal curbs for all arriving flights, or you can make a reservation by calling (919) 840-7277.
• Rental Cars – All the major rental car companies offer courtesy shuttles to their offices, which are located on airport property. Catch the shuttle bus for your rental car company at the green Rental Car shuttle stops outside bag claim at Zone 4 in Terminal 1, and Zone 5 in Terminal 2.
• Trains – there are no direct train services that operate from RDU, but there are rail stations located in Raleigh, Durham and Cary you can connect to. 

Hotel Shuttles

If you are staying in Raleigh or Durham from out of town, the following hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airport.

These aren’t necessarily free shuttle services, so you may want to check the price of a Lyft or Uber before booking a shuttle – generally, shuttles are better if you have families or lots of luggage.

Hotels in Raleigh

• Aloft-Raleigh Durham/Brier Creek
• Courtyard & Residence Inn
• Embassy Suites Brier Creek
• Embassy Suites Raleigh-Crabtree
• Fairfield Inn and Suites Raleigh Durham Airport- Brier Creek
• Hyatt House
• Residence Inn by Marriott Crabtree Valley
• Westin Raleigh Durham Airport
• Tru by Hilton – Raleigh-Durham Airport

Hotels in Cary

• Courtyard by Marriott
• Embassy Suites Raleigh-Durham/Research Triangle

Hotels in Durham

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Raleigh-Durham
• Doubletree by Hilton Raleigh-Durham Airport at RTP
• Doubletree Suites by Hilton Durham City Center
• Hilton Garden Inn Research Triangle Park
• Homewood Suites
• Homewood Suites RTP
• Marriott at Research Triangle Park
• Spring Hill Suites RDU/RTP
• Wingate by Wyndham RDU

Hotels in Morrisville

• Cambria Suites
• Country Inn and Suites
• Days Inn
• Four Points by Sheraton Raleigh Durham Airport
• Hilton Garden Inn Raleigh-Durham Airport
• Holiday Inn Raleigh-Durham Airport
• Holiday Inn Express Raleigh-Durham Airport
• Hyatt House
• Hyatt Place
• LaQuinta Inn and Suites
• Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham in Morrisville
• Quality Inn & Suites

RDU hours of operation

• Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Most ticket counters open at about 4:30 a.m. 
• The security checkpoint opens at 4 a.m. in both terminals. 
• Many of The Shops of RDU are open 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. The Starbucks located at pre-security in Terminal 2 is open 24/7, 365 days per year.

Terminals at Raleigh Durham Airport

Raleigh Airport has two terminals, T1 and T2, and in total has three runways and 45 gates.

Terminal 1

Airlines that currently operate out of Terminal 1 include:

• Alaska
• Avelo
• Breeze
• Southwest
• Spirit
• Sun Country

The following services and amenities can be found in Terminal 1:

• Alaska Bag Service
• GoTriangle Bus Stop
• Nursing Suite
• Southwest Bag Service
• Smoking area
• Post office box
• Rental car
• Water bottle filling station
• Pet relief area

The following food and beverage options can be found in Terminal 1:

• ACC American Cafe
• Beyu Caffe
• Char-Grill
• La Tapenade Mediterranean Cafe
• Raleigh Beer Garden
• Ready to Fly Grab & Go
• Salsarita’s Fresh Cantina
• Starbucks

The following retail options can be found in Terminal 1:

• Brightlead News & Gift
• Five Points News & Gift
• Natalie’s Candy Jar
• The District

Terminal 2

Airlines that currently operate out of Terminal 2 include:

• Aeromexico
• Air Canada
• Air France
• American
• BermudAir
• Copa Airlines
• Delta
• Frontier
• Icelandair
• JetBlue
• Lufthansa
• WestJet
• United

Terminal 2 is much larger, more modern, and has considerably more dining and shopping options. 

The following services and amenities can be found in Terminal 2:

• Admiral’s Club
• Air Canada Bag Service
• American Airlines Bag Service
• Charter Bus Drop-Off/Pick Up
• Delta Bag Service and Help Center
• Delta Sky Club
• Frontier Bag Service
• JetBlue Bag Service
• Lufthansa Bag Service
• Nursing Suite
• Southwest Bag Service
• Smoking area
• Post office box
• Rental car
• Water bottle filling station
• Pet relief area
• United Bag Service
• United Club

The following food and beverage options can be found in Terminal 2:

• Adios! by Oscar Diaz (Coming Soon)
• Beyu Caffe
• Black and White Coffee Roasters
• Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay
• Bond Brothers Kitchen and Bar (Coming soon)
• Bongiorno & Son Italian
• Carolina Craft
• Crawford’s Genuine
• Dunkin’
• get REEF Virtual Food Hall
• Guy’s Pizza Joint
• Half Moon Empanadas
• Jason’s Deli
• La Farm Bakery
• Lonerider ( Coming Soon)
• Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
• Ready to Fly Grab & Go
• Starbucks
• Whisky River

The following retail options can be found in Terminal 2:

• 5th & Sunset
• City Market News
• Corsa Collections
• Hudson
• Five Points News &Ggifts
• ink by Hudson
• InMotion
• No Boundaries
• Raleigh-Durham Duty Free
• Root & Branch
• Swarovski
• Tech on the go
• TripAdvisor
• Vineyard Vines
• WRAL Travel Store

FAQs about flying to and from RDU Airport

How early should I arrive at Raleigh-Durham Airport

For domestic flights, you should arrive at least two hours prior to departure. For international flights you should arrive at least three hours prior to departure.

Most airlines begin boarding 30-45 minutes before departure. You need to allow time for:

• Driving to the airport and any potential traffic delays
• Finding your parking spot
• Getting from parking to the terminal
• Complete the airline check-in 
• Getting through the security screening process
• Getting to your departure gate

HOT TIP – one of our top recommendations for stress-free travel is to arrive at the airport early. I’d much rather know I’m there and have time to grab a coffee, walk around and check-out some stores, maybe get a bite to eat than be rushing through security and running to my gate in a state of panic!

You don’t want to start off a dream trip all stressed and potentially miss your flight that you have planned and saved up for many months in advance!

What are peak travel times at RDU?

As mentioned, we have never had any real delays at Raleigh Durham Airport, but keep in mind the time of the day, the day of the week, the time of the year, and any weather issues when you are flying. 

If you are traveling during busy holiday periods like Thanksgiving or Christmas it will be much more chaotic so factor that in! Peak travel times at RDU are typically from 5-7am, mid-day and from 4-7pm. (Read our holiday travel tips here) We actually learned from staff there last week, that Mother’s Day is the biggest travel day of the year at RDU! That is becuase it falls as the same weekend as college graduation so moms are flying in from everywhere!

This is when the highest number of passengers make their way through the TSA checkpoints. Generally, most passengers wait less than 30-minutes for security checkpoint screening. But this can vary.

We also learned that RDU is more of an arrivals airport than a departure, which is one reason we usually get through check in and security quickly!

What time is check-in and bag drop?

Airline ticket counters generally open at 4am, and most airlines cut off check-in and bag drop 30-45 minutes prior to departure. But always check with your airline for specific rules and times!

Bag Curbside check-in is available through skycap services for domestic flights on select airlines.

Again, contact your specific airline for its up-to-date policy on carry-ons and checked baggage, including size and weight limits.

What time does the security checkpoint open?

The federal Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screens all passengers and luggage at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. The TSA Security Checkpoint opens at 4:30am.

Like all airports, travel through the security checkpoint is limited to ticketed passengers. Airlines may grant a gate pass for one person to accompany a minor child or passenger needing assistance to the gate area.

RDU has the latest technology in bag screening, which means no laptops out or shoes off!!

Is there a TSA Precheck?

RDU has dedicated TSA PreCheck lanes at both of their security checkpoints at Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You can check the official TSA website for opening hours at any airport as they can vary.

If you haven’t already enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you can enroll online or enroll at a service center near you. 

Does RDU have CLEAR?

Yes, RDU does have CLEAR in Terminals 1 and 2. Look for the kiosks pre-security in the ticketing area.

Not familiar with CLEAR? This verification service helps you get through security faster by allowing you to verify who you are with your eyes or fingerprint instead of waiting to show government issued photo I.D. You can sign up online. 

Does RDU have Global Entry?

Global Entry is a U.S. program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States.

And yes, RDU has Global Entry kiosks for travelers arriving from international flights. Learn more.

What are your tips stress-free check-in at RDU Airport?

• Check-in online at home and you get your boarding pass on your phone so you can go straight to bag drop
• Pack carry-on only, especially if you have connecting flights, and if you’ve checked-in online you can go straight to the security checkpoint.
• Book the earliest flight. This reduces the impact of the domino effect, especially if you’re connecting and things go wrong like weather delays!
• Slip on shoes, comfy pants (no belt if possible), cross body bag for easy access to documents. 
• Download your airlines app to get updated flight notifications
• Watch our video.

Can you walk between terminals at RDU?

Another thing we love about Raleigh-Durham International Airport is that getting from Terminal 1 to Terminal 2 involves an easy 5-minute walk and there’s a people mover. 

Free shuttle bus service is also available for passengers going from one terminal to the other. From Terminal 1 to Terminal 2, take the Lot 3 bus and from Terminal 2 to Terminal 2, take the Lot 4 bus.

Does RDU have Wi-Fi and charging points?

As someone who runs an online-business and gets to the airport early, I’m always on the lookout for charging stations and appreciate free WiFi, and RDU Airport does a pretty good job of this.

You can access free Wi-Fi in all public areas, including gates and baggage claim, and other WiFi services may be available in lounges, restaurants, bars and retail locations. To use the airport WiFi select “RDU Free WiFi.”

As for charging points, select seats at various gates around the airport have charging points for your phones and laptops etc. 

Parking at RDU

There are four main RDU parking options including long-term and short-term parking. 

Note: cash is no longer accepted for RDU Airport Parking facilities. All major credit cards are accepted at drive-up pay stations and pay-on-foot self-service kiosks.

If you don’t have a card, use one of the ReadySTATION® kiosks available in Terminal and Terminal 2. You can also check the status of each parking lot online to see how full they are. This is great for planning ahead. Check the status of RDU parking here.

ParkRDU Premier

Premier features dedicated spaces in a covered area for those wanting the ultimate ease and convenience. 

• Located on the ground level of the main parking garage 
• Direct access to both terminals.
• Covered spaces
• Rate: $8 each hour (or part thereof) up to four hours, then $32 daily maximum

ParkRDU Central

Central has more than 10,000 spaces with a short walk to both terminals. Conveniently located in the main parking garage between Terminals 1 and 2.

• Short walk to terminals
• Covered & outdoor spaces
• Rate: $5.25 each hour (or part thereof) up to four hours, then $21 daily maximum
• Get directions.

Economy 3 and 4

There are two Economy lots just a short and free shuttle bus ride away from the terminals. This is the best choice for low-cost on-airport long term parking.

• Rate: $3/hour or $12/day
• Easy access from U.S. 70 and I-40
• Free 24/7 shuttle service every 20 minutes
• Directions to lot 3. Directions to lot 4.

RDU Express

The newest parkign lot to open at RDU is the Express lot, which is located at 1710 East International Drive, near the FAA Control Tower.

This parking lot is cheaper, but it’s further away from the terminals. There is a 24/7 shuttle service from the parking lot to the terminals, which comes with a free bottle of water.

• Free 24/7 shuttle service
• Luggage assistance
• Rate: $4.25 each hour (or part thereof) up to four hours, then $17 daily maximum
• Get directions

Handicapped Parking

Handicapped parking spaces are provided in the Park Premier facility and on all floors of the Park Central parking garage in close proximity to the elevators. 

The economy facilities also offer handicapped parking spaces located next to the bus shelters. 

Free Shuttle

The RDU airport shuttle is free from economy lots 3 and 4 and operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week on an 11-minute frequency. 

• Lot 3 shuttle takes approximately 7 minutes to arrive at Terminal 1 and 10 minutes for Terminal 2. 
• Lot 4 shuttle takes approximately 5 minutes to arrive at Terminal 2 and 10 minutes for Terminal 1.
• All shuttles stop at both terminals during their routes. 
• Download the free TransLoc mobile app (App Store, Google Play) to find the next arriving shuttle with real-time map updates. 

HOT TIP: book parking online at least 24 hours in advance at ParkRDU.com/parking for a discount and guaranteed entry into the parking lot of your choice!

The best places to eat and drin at RDU Airport

Another reason we enjoy flying from our local Raleigh Durham International Airport is the number of local food outlets on offer, especially in Terminal 2.

We have flown a lot throughout the U.S. and many airports are just terrible with endless chains and fast food restaurants.

Take note that there is one Starbucks pre-security clearance area in Terminal 2, but the rest of the dining options are post-security. For local dining at RDU consider:

La Farm Bakery + Café (T2)

If you love a good artisanal bakery, this is North Carolina’s beloved French style bakery offering everything from croissants to scones, crusty sourdough, pastries, sandwiches, burgers and café dishes from their French bistro menu.

All-day breakfast is available and their most popular dish is the Croque Madame. Sit and relax, or grab something to take to your gate! 

getREEF Virtual Food Hall (T2)

This is a cool new concept and way to support local vendors that might be coming to other airports near you soon.

Simply order using the mobile tablet touch screen, your food is prepared and you receive a text with a code to unlock the locker, or get it delivered to your gate.

Everything from burgers to salads to wings and one of our favorite local coffee providers, Beyu Caffe from Durham. It’s quick, easy and mobile-first.

Whisky River (T2)

Another North Carolinian drink and food outlet that has an Old West feel. Stop in for a big country breakfast or buffalo omelet and a classic mimosa. 

Or how about a Buffalo chopped salad or roasted chicken for dinner? Full bar with cocktails, spirits, wines and local craft beer.

Char-Grill (T1)

It doesn’t get more Raleigh than local burger favorite, Char-Grill, for their burgers, shakes and fries. A landmark in downtown Raleigh that is ever popular in Terminal 1.

They also have a breakfast menu with delicious breakfast sandwiches, and beer selections. Grab a burger and sit by the window and watch all the action out on the ramp.

All up there are over 15 dining options at RDU with something for everyone pre or post flight.

Stay tuned as star local chef Scott Crawford from Crawford & Son has a highly anticipated opening for Crawford’s Genuine in Terminal 2 in late 2023, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, plus to-go options.

And, Black & White Coffee, one of our favorite coffee shops in Raleigh is also opening in Terminal 2. 

The best shops at RDU 

There are countless shops to grab anything you might need before you take to the skies like tech gear, books to read, souvenirs, gifts, travel accessories, duty free, you name it.

One of our favorite stores is Root & Branch in Terminal 2 who was inspired by public markets and offers a wide range of local, regional and national brand products. See full list of shops here and watch our video.

Lounges at RDU International Airport

If you have status to access airport lounges, the following are located at RDU International Airport.

• American Airlines Admirals Club – Terminal 2, across from Gate C3. Hours: daily from 4:30am-8pm
• Delta Air Lines Sky Club –  Terminal 2, across from Gate C3. Hours: Sunday-Friday, 4:30am–7:45pm. Saturday: 4:30am-7pm.
• United Club – Terminal 2, across from Gates D1 & D3. Hours: Daily: 5am to 7:30pm.

Hotels near RDU Airport

If you are looking for the best hotels near Raleigh Airport for either business or leisure travel, we’ve done the research for you! 

Here are hotels near Raleigh airport, and if you’re heading into the city, here are the best downtown Raleigh hotels to consider when you visit Raleigh. 

Podcast Episode: All about RDU

For those who may prefer watching a video of us podcasting, we filmed that for you too, which you’ll find on YouTube each week.

What we talked about:

• Why we love Raleigh Durham Airport
• Raleigh vs. Charlotte Airport
• International flight options from Raleigh
• Parking at RDU
• Food at RDU
• Why driving to Charlotte could save you money flying overseas
• Our trips to London, Ireland, and The Bahamas
• Tips for booking flights

Final thoughts

Even though our local airport is not a major hub like Atlanta or Dallas, when we want to get away, we can pretty much fly anywhere easily enoughfrom RDU.

Flight options have improved a ton since 2004 and they continue to add direct flights from Raleigh to exciting destinations every year! 

The airport has undergone significant renovations and upgrades in recent years with exciting plans in the works, and this has made the airport more comfortable and convenient for travelers.

Raleigh Itineraries + Tips

• 48 hour guide to Raleigh
• Top attractions in Raleigh
• Downtown Raleigh restaurants
• Raleigh events & festivals

If you have any questions, comments or tips of your own about Raleigh-Durham International Airport, please share them below in the comments section!