RDU Launches Annual Holiday Music Series

RDU Airport, NC – Festive music will greet travelers at Raleigh-Durham International Airport as they make their way home for the holidays this year. On Sunday, RDU began its holiday music series. Local musicians will entertain travelers throughout the Thanksgiving travel week. The series will continue during the year-end holidays.

“Music is just one way RDU can bring holiday cheer into the terminals, while reducing the stress that can accompany travel during the busiest time of the year,” said Teresa Damiano, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority’s marketing director.

This year’s series includes jazz, blues, swing and Latin- themed music. A complete holiday music schedule can be found on the airport’s Web site at www.rdu.com in the holiday travel guide.

Tips for Holiday Travel

Nearly 300,000 people are expected to travel through RDU over the next week. Officials are recommending travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time.

Travelers are also reminded that the TSA has changed its rules for liquids, gels and aerosols permitted in carry-on luggage. Passengers are now permitted to carry travel-size toiletries (3 ounces or less) that fit in one quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag. All other liquids and gels should be packed in passengers’ checked luggage. For more information, please visit www.tsa.gov.

Following are additional tips for holiday travelers:

• Visit www.rdu.com before you fly. Check your flight status, tips for navigating security checkpoint and information on where to park, eat and much more.
• Limit carry-on items. Each traveler is permitted one bag and one personal item, such as a purse or briefcase, through the security checkpoint.
• Follow the electronic signs to available parking. Electronic signs are located throughout the airport and will guide you to parking garages and Park and Ride lots with available spaces.
• Use ExitExpress to pay for parking. If parking in the garage located between the terminals, remember to keep your parking ticket with you. Pay for parking at an ExitExpress pay station before returning to your car.
• Print out your boarding pass from your airline’s Web site. Most airlines allow passengers to print their boarding pass before coming to the airport.
• Be prepared for security checkpoint. Before proceeding through the metal detector, remove coats, jackets, blazers and shoes. All metal objects, including cell phones and pagers, should be placed in carry-on luggage or in the containers provided at the checkpoint.
• Remove knives and blades of any type or size from your carry-on luggage. For a complete list of items prohibited past security checkpoint, visit www.tsa.gov.
• Keep boarding passes and photo IDs out and visible. Your boarding pass and ID will be needed throughout the security screening process.

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