Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU): The Complete Guide

RDU Airport Overview

Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) serves one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the United States. The Research Triangle — anchored by Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill — has attracted massive tech and pharmaceutical investment, and the airport has grown alongside the region. RDU handles more than 14 million passengers annually and is a focus city for Delta Air Lines, which accounts for roughly 30 percent of all passenger traffic.

The airport has two terminals on opposite ends of a shared parking structure. The layout takes a little getting used to, but once you know which terminal you need, RDU is a smooth and efficient airport to navigate.

Terminal Layout

Terminal 1

Terminal 1 is the smaller of the two and is used exclusively by Southwest Airlines. It has 9 gates numbered A1 through A9, a small dining concourse, and a dedicated security checkpoint. Southwest passengers should note that Terminal 1 has fewer food and retail options than Terminal 2, so if you have a long wait, plan accordingly.

Terminal 2

Terminal 2 is the main terminal and handles the majority of RDU's traffic, including all international flights. It has 36 gates spread across Concourses C and D. The terminal is modern and spacious, with significantly more dining, shopping, and lounge options than Terminal 1. All international arrivals are processed through Terminal 2's customs and immigration facilities.

Connecting Between Terminals

The two terminals are not connected airside. To transfer between them, you must exit security and take the inter-terminal connector, which runs through the covered parking structure. The walk or shuttle takes about 10 to 15 minutes. There is no airside connection, so if you have a connecting flight between a Southwest flight and any other carrier, allow extra time.

Airlines at RDU

Terminal 1 hosts Southwest Airlines only. Terminal 2 hosts all other carriers: American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, Allegiant, Avelo, Breeze Airways, and international carriers including Air Canada, British Airways, and seasonal European services. Delta is the largest carrier in Terminal 2 by a wide margin.

Lounges

• Delta Sky Club (Terminal 2, Concourse C near Gate C3) — Delta's full-service lounge with hot food, drinks, showers, and workspaces. Available to Sky Club members and eligible Delta passengers.
• American Airlines Admirals Club (Terminal 2) — Standard Admirals Club amenities. Available to members and eligible American passengers.
• United Club (Terminal 2, near Gates D1 and D3) — Available to United Club members and eligible United passengers.

Dining and Shops

Terminal 2 has a strong lineup of local North Carolina concepts alongside national chains.

• 42nd Street Oyster Bar — A Raleigh institution dating back to 1931. The airport location serves fresh oysters, seafood, and classic Southern fare. Worth the sit-down time if your layover allows.
• Boylan Bridge Brewpub — Local craft beer and pub food. One of the best airport bar experiences in the Southeast.
• Tequila Agave — Mexican food and margaritas. Good for a pre-flight meal.
• Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Moe's Southwest Grill — National chain quick-service options for fast, reliable meals.

Terminal 1 (Southwest) has a much more limited selection: primarily quick-service options including Starbucks and grab-and-go sandwiches.

Getting To and From RDU

GoTriangle Bus (Best Budget Option)

The GoTriangle Regional Transit Authority operates bus service connecting RDU to downtown Raleigh, Durham, and other Research Triangle destinations. The 100 bus runs between RDU and downtown Raleigh. Fares are low, but travel times are longer than a rideshare due to local stops.

Rideshare and Taxi

Uber and Lyft pick up at designated zones outside both terminals. Fares to downtown Raleigh typically run $20 to $30. Durham is slightly cheaper at $15 to $25. Chapel Hill is farther and runs $30 to $45. Traffic on I-40 and I-540 can add significant time during peak hours.

Rental Cars

The consolidated rental car facility is a short shuttle ride from the terminals. All major brands are represented. Book in advance during peak periods — RDU car rentals can sell out during major university events and tech conferences.

Parking

RDU has terminal garages adjacent to each terminal, plus economy lots with shuttle service. Garage rates start around $22 per day. Economy lots run approximately $9 to $12 per day. The economy lots are a solid value for trips over three or four days.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

RDU offers free Wi-Fi throughout both terminals. The connection is reliable and fast enough for video calls. TSA PreCheck lanes are available at both terminal security checkpoints. Power outlets and USB charging ports are widely available at gate areas.

Tips for Navigating RDU

• Know your terminal. Southwest is Terminal 1, everyone else is Terminal 2. This is the most important thing to remember.
• International flights always use Terminal 2. Even if your connecting carrier is Southwest, you will arrive at Terminal 2 after an international flight and need to collect bags, clear customs, and re-check before heading to Terminal 1.
• Morning security can back up at Terminal 2. The TSA checkpoint in Terminal 2 can get congested from 6 to 9 AM on weekdays. PreCheck and CLEAR help significantly during these windows.
• 42nd Street Oyster Bar is worth it. If you have 45 minutes or more in Terminal 2, the oyster bar is one of the best airport dining experiences in the country.
• RDU is expanding. The airport is in ongoing development to handle its growing passenger volumes. Construction may affect some concession areas, so be ready for minor detours.

Nearby Hotels

The Sheraton Raleigh-Durham Airport Hotel is connected to the terminal area via a covered walkway, making it the most convenient on-site option. The Renaissance Raleigh North Hills Hotel and several Marriott and Hilton properties in the Research Triangle offer free airport shuttles. Downtown Raleigh and downtown Durham are both 15 to 25 minutes by rideshare.