Raleigh-Durham International Airport
Raleigh-Durham International Airport is the primary commercial gateway to the Research Triangle region of North Carolina, located between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. RDU offers two runways with the longest at 10,000 feet, accommodating all heavy jets and most VIP-configured airliners. The airport serves the thriving tech and biotech industry centered around Research Triangle Park, as well as Duke University, University of North Carolina, and North Carolina State University. Dedicated FBO facilities from Signature Flight Support provide private terminals. Estimated charter rates to Research Triangle via RDU: light jets from $4,000 per hour, mid-size jets from $5,500 per hour, heavy jets from $8,500 per hour.
Transworld Jets Insider Tip
RDU is strategically positioned between Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, making it a convenient arrival point for all three cities. For Research Triangle Park directly, the airport is approximately 7 miles away. Our brokers can coordinate ground transportation to match the specific meeting or destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can heavy jets land at Raleigh-Durham?
Yes. RDU's 10,000-foot runway accommodates all heavy jets including the Gulfstream G650, Bombardier Global 7500, and VIP-configured airliners like the Boeing BBJ and Airbus ACJ.
Does Raleigh-Durham have international customs?
Yes. Raleigh-Durham International is a full international port of entry with U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities, ideal for transatlantic and international private jet arrivals.
How far is RDU from Research Triangle Park?
Raleigh-Durham International Airport is approximately 7 miles from Research Triangle Park, typically a 15-minute drive. It's also 10 miles from Duke University in Durham and 18 miles from UNC Chapel Hill.
Aircraft Compatible with Raleigh-Durham International Airport
Based on the longest runway (10,000 ft), the following aircraft categories can operate here.
Runway Information
| Runway | Length | Width | Surface | Lighted |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05L/23R | 10,000 ft | 150 ft | Con | ✓ Yes |
| 05R/23L | 7,500 ft | 150 ft | Asp | ✓ Yes |
| 14/32 | 3,570 ft | 100 ft | Asp | ✓ Yes |
Nearby Alternative Airports
More Airports in North Carolina
Western Carolina Regional Airport
KRHP — Andrews
Asheville Regional Airport
AVL — Asheville
Charlotte Douglas International Airport
CLT — Charlotte
Cherry Point MCAS / Cunningham Field/
KNKT — Cherry Point
Concord-Padgett Regional Airport
USA — Concord
Elizabeth City Regional Airport & Coast Guard Air Station
ECG — Elizabeth City
Fayetteville Regional Airport - Grannis Field
FAY — Fayetteville
Simmons Army Air Field
FBG — Fort Bragg
Charter a Jet from Raleigh/Durham
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- IATA Code
- RDU
- ICAO Code
- KRDU
- Elevation
- 435 ft
- Runways
- 3
- Longest Runway
- 10,000 ft
- Location
- Raleigh/Durham, North Carolina