Airport Tips & Quick Reference Guide to Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU)

Parking at Raleigh–Durham International Airport (RDU)

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Raleigh–Durham International Airport offers several convenient parking options designed for both short visits and longer trips. Whether you are dropping off passengers, picking someone up, or leaving your car during a vacation or business trip, RDU provides multiple parking facilities located at different distances from the terminals.

Most parking areas are located within the airport property and are clearly signposted from the airport access roads. Some parking garages are within walking distance of the terminals, while others provide frequent shuttle bus connections that operate throughout the day.

During peak travel periods such as holidays or university events in the Research Triangle area, parking facilities close to the terminals can fill quickly. Arriving earlier than usual is recommended.

Parking Options Overview

Parking Area Distance to Terminal Shuttle Daily Max Price Best For
Premier Parking Very close No $30 Business travelers
Central Parking Short walk No $20 Short trips
Express Parking Moderate distance Yes $16 Balanced price and convenience
Economy Parking Farthest Yes $12 Budget travelers

Premier Parking

Premier Parking is the most convenient parking option at Raleigh–Durham Airport. It is located on the first level of the main parking garage, offering covered parking spaces just a short walk from the terminal buildings.

This option is ideal for business travelers or passengers who want the fastest access to the terminal entrances and security checkpoints.

 If you are traveling with heavy luggage or limited time, Premier Parking provides the quickest access to the terminals.

Premier Parking Rates Price
Hourly $7.50
Maximum per day $30

Central Parking

Central Parking is another convenient parking facility located within a short walking distance of the terminals. This parking area includes both covered and outdoor spaces.

Central Parking offers a good balance between convenience and price, making it one of the most popular options for short trips.

Central Parking Rates Price
Hourly $5
Maximum per day $20

Express Parking

Express Parking is located slightly farther from the terminals but remains convenient thanks to its frequent shuttle buses, running approximately every 5 minutes.

Allow an extra 10–15 minutes for shuttle transportation when parking in this lot.

Express Parking Rates Price
Hourly $4
Daily Maximum $16

Economy Parking

Economy Parking is the cheapest option at Raleigh–Durham Airport. The airport offers two economy lots, P3 and P4, located a few minutes from the terminals. Free shuttle buses operate frequently between these lots and the terminal entrances.

Economy parking is ideal for travelers leaving their car at the airport for several days or longer.

Economy Parking Rates

Parking Lot Hourly Rate Daily Maximum
Economy Lot P3 $3 $12
Economy Lot P4 $3 $12

Estimated Time to Reach the Terminals

Parking Area Walking Time Shuttle Time
Premier Parking 2–3 minutes Not required
Central Parking 3–5 minutes Not required
Express Parking Not walkable 5–8 minutes
Economy Parking Not walkable 8–12 minutes

Cell Phone Lot

The Cell Phone Lot is a free waiting area designed for drivers who are picking up arriving passengers. Drivers can wait in their vehicles until passengers are ready for pickup.

Confirm that your passenger has already collected their luggage before leaving the waiting area.

*Prices are subject to change.

Parking Information Phone: +1 (919) 840-2140
Service hours: Monday–Friday, 09:00 AM – 05:00 PM