More than 225,000 Passengers Expected to Fly

Over 225,200 passengers are expected to fly through RDU from Aug. 31 – Sept. 4, exceeding record passenger traffic set in 2019. The projections would mark an increase of 31% over 2022 and 24% over 2019. The number of airline seats already booked by travelers is up 36% from last year. 

“RDU is looking forward to welcoming even more guests this weekend than we did during our record-breaking year in 2019,” said Michael Landguth, president and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. “We are working with our partners at the airlines and TSA on staffing levels ahead of the busy weekend and our Guest Experience team will be ready to assist passengers with their needs.” 

RDU will increase the number of Guest Experience ambassadors working during peak hours over the long weekend to assist with managing lines. The airport’s new parking guidance system will improve the travel experience by indicating to guests where to find open spaces in the deck. RDU recommends airport guests book parking online at parkrdu.com before they fly. Booking at least 24 hours in advance guarantees guests a space in the deck or lot of their choice.  

Guests are encouraged to arrive early – at least two hours in advance for domestic flights and three hours for international flights – to ensure they have enough time to park, check in, pass through security and get to their gate on time.