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✈️ RDU · Raleigh, United States

Traveling Through RDU — Raleigh-Durham International Airport

Raleigh-Durham International Airport serves 2 terminals, 11 airlines. Everything you need to know before you fly — terminals, transit, tips, and more.

12M passengers/year (2017) · Updated March 2026


📋 Key Facts for Your Trip

Essential info before you fly through RDU

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Terminals
2 terminals (Terminal 1, Terminal 2)
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Domestic Check-in
90 minutes before departure
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International Check-in
3 hours before departure
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WiFi
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals. Connect to the "RDU Free WiFi" network.
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Power Outlets
Numerous charging stations and power outlets are available throughout both terminals, especially near gates and in seating areas.
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Annual Passengers
12M passengers/year (2017)

✈️ Airlines at RDU

Terminal assignments — always confirm with your airline before travel

Airline Terminal(s)
Southwest Airlines Terminal 1
Allegiant Air Terminal 1
American Airlines Terminal 2
Delta Air Lines Terminal 2
United Airlines Terminal 2
Frontier Airlines Terminal 2
JetBlue Airways Terminal 2
Spirit Airlines Terminal 2
Air Canada Terminal 2
Copa Airlines Terminal 2
Icelandair Terminal 2

🚗 Getting To & From RDU

Ground transportation options for Raleigh

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Bus / Shuttle

GoTriangle Route 100 provides bus service between RDU and regional transit centers. Fare is $2.25.

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Rideshare

Uber and Lyft are available for pick-up and drop-off at designated zones in both terminals.

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Taxi

Taxis are available at both terminals. Approximate fare to downtown Raleigh is $25-30, to downtown Durham is $30-35.

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Parking

Economy parking rates are $2 per hour, $10 per day. Free shuttle service to terminals. · Hourly parking is $3 per hour, $15 per day. Daily parking is $3 per hour, $17 per day.

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Rental Cars

The Rental Car Facility is located on the first floor of the parking garage between Terminals 1 and 2. Major companies include Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty.


🍽️ Inside RDU

Food, lounges, and shopping at Raleigh-Durham International Airport

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Food & Dining

Before security: Terminal 1 has limited options like A&W and Starbucks. Terminal 2 offers more choices such as Bruegger's Bagels, California Pizza Kitchen, and Starbucks. · After security: Terminal 1 has options like Carolina Vending. Terminal 2 features a wider selection including 42nd Street Oyster Bar, Brier Creek Brewing Company, and Jason's Deli.

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Lounges

Delta Sky Club (Terminal 2, Concourse B)American Airlines Admirals Club (Terminal 2, Concourse C)

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Shopping

Terminal 1 has limited retail options. Terminal 2 offers a variety of shops including CNBC News, Eddie Bauer, and PGA Tour Shop. Duty-free is available for international flights.


💡 Frequent Traveler Tips for RDU

Insider knowledge to make your time at Raleigh-Durham International Airport smoother

  • 1 RDU is a relatively easy airport to navigate with two main terminals.
  • 2 Terminal 1 is primarily for Allegiant and Southwest, while Terminal 2 handles most other airlines.
  • 3 Consider using the free "RDU Free WiFi" for internet access.
  • 4 For longer stays, economy parking with shuttle service is a cost-effective option.
  • 5 If connecting between terminals, use the free terminal shuttle bus.

📱 Real-Time Flight Tracking

Track Your Flight from RDU — Automatically

TripTrack shows your terminal, gate, and real-time delay status the moment you book. Connect your Gmail once and your trips appear automatically — no manual entry.


Frequently Asked Questions — RDU

How many terminals does RDU (Raleigh-Durham International Airport) have?

Raleigh-Durham International Airport has 2 terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2. Always confirm your terminal with your airline before travel, as assignments can change.

Does RDU have free WiFi?

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout both terminals. Connect to the "RDU Free WiFi" network.. For real-time connectivity updates and to stay on top of gate changes, download TripTrack — it tracks your flight automatically.

How early should I arrive at RDU?

For domestic flights, check-in closes 90 minutes before departure. For international flights, check-in closes 3 hours before departure. As a general rule, arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights to allow time for check-in, security, and reaching your gate.

What airlines fly from RDU?

Raleigh-Durham International Airport is served by 11 airlines, including Southwest Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and 6 more. See the full airline and terminal list above.

How do I get from RDU to Raleigh?

Ground transportation options from Raleigh-Durham International Airport include bus/shuttle service, rideshare apps, taxi. See the Getting To & From section above for details.

Is there parking at RDU?

Yes, Raleigh-Durham International Airport offers parking options. Economy parking rates are $2 per hour, $10 per day. Free shuttle service to terminals. Hourly parking is $3 per hour, $15 per day. Daily parking is $3 per hour, $17 per day. Rates and availability change — check the airport website for current pricing.

How can I track my flight from RDU in real time?

TripTrack automatically tracks your flights from Raleigh-Durham International Airport — showing real-time gate changes, delays, and terminal info. Connect your Gmail once and your trips appear automatically. Available free on iOS and Android.