Southwest® flights to Raleigh/Durham starting at $67
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Popular flights to Raleigh/Durham on Southwest Airlines
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$
Atlanta (ATL)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/03/2026
From
$76
Seen: 10 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Baltimore/Washington (BWI)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/05/2026
From
$79
Seen: 19 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Orlando (MCO)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/11/2026
From
$103
Seen: 17 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Chicago (Midway) (MDW)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/05/2026
From
$104
Seen: 14 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Tampa (TPA)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/06/2026
From
$108
Seen: 18 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
San Diego (SAN)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/01/2026
From
$109
Seen: 12 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Nashville (BNA)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/11/2026
From
$109
Seen: 15 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/05/2026
From
$114
Seen: 22 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Dallas (Love Field) (DAL)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/05/2026
From
$121
Seen: 22 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
New Orleans (MSY)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/08/2026
From
$136
Seen: 11 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Houston (Hobby) (HOU)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/11/2026
From
$139
Seen: 22 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Austin (AUS)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/11/2026
From
$139
Seen: 12 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
St. Louis (STL)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/04/2026
From
$149
Seen: 23 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Kansas City (MCI)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/11/2026
From
$150
Seen: 11 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
San Antonio (SAT)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/04/2026
From
$150
Seen: 19 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Indianapolis (IND)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/04/2026
From
$155
Seen: 22 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Phoenix (PHX)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/10/2026
From
$159
Seen: 22 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Denver (DEN)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/05/2026
From
$159
Seen: 21 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Los Angeles (LAX)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/06/2026
From
$162
Seen: 15 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
Las Vegas (LAS)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)Depart: 08/06/2026
From
$195
Seen: 23 hrs ago
One-way
Basic
*Fares displayed have been collected within the last 24 hours and may no longer be available at time of booking. Additional fees and charges for optional products and services may apply. Modifying this information may result in a different fare. To find the most updated fare, please visit Southwest.com. Fares listed are Basic, which are subject to additional terms and conditions.
Take Flight to Raleigh-Durham
Booking your flight to Raleigh-Durham is the perfect way to start exploring North Carolina's famous Research Triangle of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is your arrival point for exploring the Triangle's unique combo of powerhouse academics, cutting-edge tech, boundless outdoor access, and Southern hospitality.
Popular flights to Raleigh/Durham on Southwest Airlines
Discover Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)
Airport facts at a glance
- 115† Cities with weekly flights from RDU
- 13‡ Cities with daily nonstop flights Monday through Friday from RDU
- 29§ Cities with daily nonstop flights Saturday through Sunday from RDU
Easy To Navigate
Clean signage and a two-terminal layout make RDU easy to navigate.
Central Triangle Access
Centrally located with a 20-to-30-minute drive to Raleigh, Durham, or Chapel Hill.
Simple Terminal Flow
Separate terminal check-in and baggage areas mean most trips stay within one building.
† Weekly flights based on DOT published schedule average flights Monday through Sunday between 9/1/2025 and 9/30/2025. Note: route may not operate every day of the week.
‡ Weekday flights based on DOT published schedule average flights Monday through Friday between 9/1/2025 and 9/30/2025.
§ Nonstop flights based on DOT published schedule average flights Saturday through Sunday between 9/1/2025 and 9/30/2025.
‡ Weekday flights based on DOT published schedule average flights Monday through Friday between 9/1/2025 and 9/30/2025.
§ Nonstop flights based on DOT published schedule average flights Saturday through Sunday between 9/1/2025 and 9/30/2025.
Getting From RDU to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill
Once your flight to Raleigh-Durham lands at RDU, travelers can connect easily to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill with several simple ground transportation options.
- Rideshares and taxis: Rideshares and taxis pick up on the arrivals level outside each terminal, with typical drive times of about 20-30 minutes to downtown Raleigh or Durham and 25-35 minutes to Chapel Hill.
- Rental cars: Follow signs from baggage claim to the rental car facility. Having a car is especially handy if you plan to visit multiple spots around the Triangle, and booking your rental car ahead of time is especially recommended.
- Public transit: For a budget-friendly option, local bus service connects RDU with Raleigh and other parts of the Triangle, though it usually takes longer than driving.
- Hotel and private shuttles: Some nearby hotels and shuttle services pick up from the ground transportation area on the arrivals level, so check your reservation for the exact curb location and schedule.
What's The Best Time To Visit Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill?
- Spring: Enjoy comfortable weather and blooming landscapes, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring college campuses. With multiple big-name basketball schools in the area, expect higher demand in March Madness season.
- Summer: The region is hot, humid, and highly active with outdoor events, though it's also a peak season for travel demand and higher crowds.
- Fall: Crisp air and beautiful autumn foliage make this one of the most comfortable and scenic times to visit the Research Triangle.
- Winter: Travel during the cooler months for a quieter trip with lower prices, though you should plan around university move-in periods and graduations.
The Best Things To Do In Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill
Explore Campus Life
Stroll the gorgeous historic campuses of Duke University and UNC-Chapel Hill to soak in the academic energy.
Discover Local Museums
Spend an afternoon wandering through Raleigh's impressive museums and lush green spaces.
Taste Durham's Culture
Head over to Durham to enjoy a thriving culinary scene, vibrant arts districts, and quirky local boutiques.
Get Outside
Take advantage of the region's incredible outdoor access by hiking, biking, or jogging through nearby state parks and trails.
Business Travel to Raleigh and the Research Triangle
Raleigh-Durham is one of the East Coast's key business hubs, anchored by Research Triangle Park, top universities, and fast-growing tech and life sciences companies. Charlotte's high finance centers are also just a quick flight away, or a little over two hours' drive time.
Many travelers fly into Raleigh-Durham International Airport for short business trips, campus visits, and recurring regional meetings, so it's a frequent short- to mid-haul route for professionals. If you're taking a lot of flights to Raleigh-Durham for work, make sure you're earning points toward future trips with Rapid Rewards®, and check out Southwest Business Travel for tools that simplify bookings for companies of all sizes.
Plan Your Trip
Rent a Car
Having a car is especially handy if you plan to visit multiple spots around the Triangle.
Rent a CarBook a Hotel
Compare stays in Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, or near RDU.
Book NowPlan a Vacation
Bundle flights and accommodations for your Research Triangle trip.
Plan Your TripTips For Finding Cheap Flights To Raleigh-Durham
If you’re looking for cheap flights to Raleigh, NC and the surrounding area, a little planning goes a long way. Academic calendars and regional business travel demand can influence prices, but these tips can help you find a great deal for your next trip.
- Stay Flexible: If you have some flexibility in your travel plans, use the Southwest Low Fare Calendar to spot the most affordable days to fly.
- Book Early: Secure your tickets well in advance, especially during peak travel periods like college sports seasons, summer vacations, and major holidays.
- Travel Midweek: Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday often helps you avoid the busy weekend crowds and can help you find cheap airfare to Raleigh, NC.
- Set Alerts: Keep an eye on price drops by signing up for fare alert emails, so you know exactly when to book your trip.
What Can We Help You With?
Get fast answers to your questions about traveling to Raleigh-Durham International Airport.
Southwest Airlines flights depart out of Terminal 1 at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. We've put some signs out for you!
RDU is centrally located between both cities (and Chapel Hill). It typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes to drive to downtown Raleigh or downtown Durham, depending on traffic. The drive to Chapel Hill is slightly longer, at 25 to 35 minutes.
Chapel Hill has no public airport, but don't worry-Southwest Airlines offers direct flights to Raleigh, NC that provide quick access to Chapel Hill.
The most convenient way to reach downtown Raleigh is by renting a car or taking a rideshare or taxi from the airport. It's a fast, direct drive via I-40.
Spring and fall are generally the best times to visit. The weather is incredibly comfortable for outdoor exploration, and you'll catch beautiful seasonal scenery without the peak summer heat.
Winter months like January and February often offer the most affordable fares. The weather is cooler, and there are fewer major university events driving up travel demand.
The Southwest Airlines flight tracker makes it easy to keep up with your flight status. Just enter your flight number or departure details to get real-time updates on your trip.
Visit Raleigh/Durham
A gateway to spectacular natural scenery and a metropolis with the heart of a small town, Raleigh/Durham will please outdoor enthusiasts and metropolitans alike. Once you land at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, you’ll have access to the Research Triangle Region of North Carolina, a sprawling multi-county area that includes the state capitol, Raleigh, as well as the vibrant cities of Durham and Chapel Hill. And with these three burgeoning burgs in close proximity, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Raleigh/Durham is more than a blossoming Southern hotspot. From its enticing array of museums to serene natural parks and vast greenways, this destination is filled with diverse diversions for all travelers. In the heart of downtown Raleigh is the Museum of Natural of Sciences—the Southeast’s largest natural history museum, complete with the Nature Exploration and Research Center. View exhibits on coastal and prehistoric North Carolina or participate in hands-on learning and research. If your creative side calls, visit the North Carolina Museum of Art. With a collection ranging from Egyptian funerary art to contemporary pieces, there’s lots to explore.
Details about Raleigh/Durham Airport
Airport code:
RDU
City:
Raleigh/Durham
State:
North Carolina
Concourse:
Terminal 1
Gates:
Gates A: 5-8
Airport-provided WiFi
Cities with weekly flights from RDU:
119†
Cities with daily nonstop flights Monday through Friday from RDU:
13‡
Cities with daily nonstop flights Saturday through Sunday from RDU:
29§
† Weekly flights based on DOT published scheduled average flights Monday through Sunday between 10/1/2025 and 10/31/2025. Note: route may not operate every day of the week.
‡ Nonstop flights based on DOT published scheduled average flights Monday through Sunday between 10/1/2025 and 10/31/2025.
Find cheap flights to Raleigh/Durham
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flight_land
$
Baltimore/Washington (BWI)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
Depart: 09/05/2026
One-way
Basic
From
$67
Seen: 36 minutes ago
Atlanta (ATL)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
Depart: 09/25/2026
One-way
Basic
From
$76
Seen: 18 hrs ago
Providence (PVD)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
Depart: 08/20/2026
One-way
Basic
From
$89
Seen: 23 hrs ago
San Diego (SAN)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
Depart: 09/19/2026
One-way
Basic
From
$99
Seen: 20 hrs ago
Long Island/Islip MacArthur (ISP)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
Depart: 10/01/2026
One-way
Basic
From
$99
Seen: 20 hrs ago
Cleveland (CLE)to
Raleigh/Durham (RDU)
Depart: 09/03/2026
One-way
Basic
From
$99
Seen: 14 hrs ago
Plan your trip
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Rent a car.
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Rent a car -
Book a hotel.
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Plan a vacation.
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Free inflight WiFi thanks to T-Mobile®.2
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12022–2023 Freddie Awards. 2Where available. Available only on WiFi-enabled designated aircraft. Free WiFi is only for Rapid Rewards® Members.
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