RDU Launches Free, Faster Wi-Fi in Terminals

RDU continues to experience double-digit growth in passenger volume. 634,000 passengers flew out of RDU last month compared to 574,000 in October 2018, an 11.3 percent year-over-year increase.

“As more people fly through RDU, we are continuously looking for ways to improve customer experience,” said Michael Landguth, president and CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority. “Passengers traveling through RDU for the holidays can now enjoy faster, uninterrupted Wi-Fi service. The new service is free and in response to customer requests for better internet access in the terminals.”

Passenger volume is expected to increase as the busy holiday travel season begins next week. Travelers should arrive at the airport at least two hours early for a domestic flight and three hours early for international travel so they have enough time to park, get through security and arrive at their gate on time.

Passengers can also save time and money by booking their parking online at least 24 hours in advance at ParkRDU.com to ensure access to their preferred lot at the lowest rate available.

New Wi-Fi Service: travelers have a new amenity to enjoy in our terminals this holiday season. RDU recently launched new, improved Wi-Fi service that is faster and hassle-free with no session timeouts. It is managed and monitored by RDU 24/7, so the Airport Authority can address issues more quickly. RDU is providing the new Wi-Fi service in response to customer demand for free and easy to use internet access.

Customers can connect to Wi-Fi at RDU by setting their wireless network to RDU Free WiFi and accepting the terms and conditions. Detailed instructions can be found at RDU.com.

Electric Bus Savings: RDU introduced four electric buses to its fleet in May, which have driven more than 54,500 miles to date. The four electric buses have already saved RDU more than $25,000 in fuel and maintenance costs as compared to traditional diesel buses. Based on the savings and success of the electric bus rollout, RDU is considering adding more electric buses to its fleet.

Runway Repairs Conclude for 2019: The removal and replacement of concrete slabs on RDU’s primary runway, 5L/23R, has concluded for the year. Thirty-five slabs were removed in the spring and 82 were removed this fall as part of an emergency preservation project.

When the program began, 175 slabs of concrete were identified for replacement over a two-year period. An additional 25 may need to be replaced next year depending on the severity of the weather this winter.