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NOVEMBER 2019

Love at First Flight

It's not often that a love connection is made thousands of feet above land. However, love took off on a Frontier flight from Orlando to RDU. Please join RDU in congratulating Mr. And Mrs. Ramirez on their recent nuptials.

Jamie and Nestor’s meet-cute is one for the books, and we at RDU are humbled to play a small role in their love story.

Let’s rewind to the beginning: Jan. 3, 2017. Jamie and Nestor were on the same flight from Orlando to RDU. Jamie was traveling to Raleigh to visit her family and Nestor was heading back to school at UNC after being home in Orlando for the holidays. They met in the security line by happenstance and continued conversation until it was time to board the flight. When they landed at RDU, Nestor asked Jamie for her number beneath the “Welcome to North Carolina” sign in Terminal 2.

Fast forward to today: Jamie and Nestor are married and living in the Triangle area. They contacted RDU to share their love story and ask for permission to take wedding photos in the terminals. We were excited accommodate this sweet couple’s request and share their pictures and love story with you.

Visit the RDU newsroom blog for more pictures from the newlywed’s RDU photo shoot and to read their full love story!

Photo Credit: Kaytelyn Hice (K.Hice Photography)

IN THE KNOW

Mixer Highlights Airport Business Opportunities

Airport growth brings new business opportunities, creates jobs and requires terminal development at the airport. The Authority hosted a concessions-focused networking mixer with the Airport Minority Advisory Council (AMAC) earlier this month to highlight exciting in-terminal business possibilities at RDU.

More than 125 attendees heard from RDU President and CEO Michael Landguth and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, Patrick Hannah, Esq. about the Authority’s vision for the future and the airport’s continued commitment to inclusion and diversity.

A well-received group of experts shared their expertise, provided guidance and outlined helpful resources during a candid panel discussion and question and answer session.

“The airport is a unique environment for concessionaires,” said Thiane Carter, RDU’s Director of Small Business Programs. “We want to expose business owners to the vast business opportunities as well as the technical and logistical elements of airport operations. We are looking forward to future events that will prepare local, small, minority and women-owned businesses to do work and grow their business with RDU.
A great starting point is the RDU Current Business Opportunities page, which I encourage you to explore.”

RDU’s growth and subsequent new business opportunities reinforce the significant economic impact that the airport has on the Research Triangle region.

FOR SAVVY TRAVELERS

Wi-Fi is what's new at RDU

Travelers at RDU may have noticed a new amenity in the terminals. In response to customer feedback and a commitment to continuous improvement, the airport recently replaced a third party provider with an internally managed Wi-Fi service.

Passengers may now enjoy free, faster, easy-to-use service with no timeouts. The service is monitored by RDU 24/7 and is available in both terminals. Since the introduction of RDU’s new Wi-Fi service, customers have enjoyed smooth 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.
 

CEO CORNER

Travel with Ease over the Holidays 

Michael J. Landguth
President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

DECEMBER 2019

A Concrete Overview of Runway Rehabilitation

Earlier this year, the airport initiated a runway rehabilitation program for its primary runway, 5L/23R, to repair deteriorating slabs of concrete. It’s a significant and time-sensitive project that requires the runway to be closed for up to 22 hours a day and reopen in time for afternoon international departures to take-off on schedule.

The limited construction window is challenging considering the variables associated with removing the old slab, pouring new concrete and allowing it to dry in time for American’s London and Delta’s Paris flights to depart. Proudly, RDU met the timetable without a single delay.

The Authority spent approximately $6.5 million on the runway rehabilitation project this year, or $100,000 per slab.  A few highlights include:

• 117 concrete slabs replaced or 59% of the total requiring replacement
• 1,078 square feet of repair or 22% of the total repair estimate
• 76,532 linear feet of saw cutting and sealing pavement joints or 64% of the total repair estimate
• 3,975 square feet of permanent yellow pavement markings applied
• 137,982 square feet of permanent white pavement markings applied
• 37,455 black reflective pavement markings applied

The project is paused for the winter and work will resume in April as the airport paves its way forward. The project’s success was primarily due to the hard work of highly competent and professional engineering, construction, operations, maintenance and FAA air traffic teams.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

A Pilot Provides Students a Glimpse into Aviation

A local kindergartner named Brooke was the lucky winner in an auction at a school close to RDU. Pilot Brad Rhodes, also a local community member, offered to auction an ‘Insider’s’ view of commercial aviation to raise money for his child’s school, which happens to be under the flight path of planes departing and arriving at RDU.

RDU worked with Brad, TSA, Brooke and her mother to coordinate the visit and it was quite the experience for us to share with you. "As someone who didn't realize until much later that aviation is a viable career choice, I am glad to help spark and spread interest in the field, said Brad Rhodes United Airlines 767 Pilot. Current projections indicate commercial aviation needs an ever-expanding crop of young aviators and support personnel. I hope little boys and girls alike get to expand upon their interests and are encouraged to follow dreams that include flying. As an ambassador to the field, I am so glad I got to take part in RDU's generous outreach with little Brooke. Thanks to all that helped!" 

We applaud Brad for his commitment to providing real-life experiences to youth that nurture their intrigue and will help build a pipeline for future careers in aviation. You can read the full story which includes some fun photos of the special day on our blog.

IN THE KNOW

Winter Weather Preparation is Underway

Have a flight coming up during the winter season? Even here in the South, frequent flyers know that inclement weather can impact their travel plans. RDU is rolling out $2 million in new winter weather equipment to combat the snow, sleet and ice that can create challenges for airlines and the airport.

Our winter weather preparations start well before the temperature falls. RDU’s maintenance team owns and operates a variety of heavy-duty snow removal equipment. Our “snow warriors” have one of the toughest jobs at the airport on snow days, clearing runways and taxiways to ensure aircraft can taxi, take off and land safely. They also clear RDU’s roadways to ensure passengers can safely access the airport during inclement weather.

We want you to be prepared when you visit us at the airport. Please read the full blog about how RDU’s Maintenance team manages winter weather and find out how you can stay informed and access information relevant to your travel in and out of RDU.

CEO CORNER

Holiday Travel and a Record Year

Michael J. Landguth
President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

JANUARY 2020

RDU Hits All-Time Passenger Record, Growth Anticipated to Continue in the New Year

Raleigh-Durham International Airport set an all-time passenger record in 2019 with more than 14.2 million people flying through the airport, an 11 percent increase over 2018. December 2019 also hit a record high with more than 600,000 passengers served, a 14 percent increase over the previous December. We are excited to welcome more passengers and expect even higher numbers in 2020.

Rapid growth requires the acceleration of major projects to accommodate more passengers and flights. RDU has a master plan, Vision 2040, that provides a flexible structure for the airport to grow responsibly and meet the aviation needs of our thriving region.

The initial $2.7 billion program, approved in 2017, has ballooned to nearly $4 billion in overall expenses because we are growing so quickly. RDU has already reached passenger volume projections for the year 2031, which requires some projects to begin up to eleven years earlier than anticipated.

The Authority will continue to explore innovative ways fund important airport projects. Visit the new Vision 2040 webpage to learn more about current and future airport projects.

IN THE KNOW

New Dining Options in Terminal 2

RDU kicked off the New Year with the opening of six new restaurants in Terminal 2. Customers may now enjoy locally-brewed beers, new healthy options and global flavors at the airport.

“Travelers have more dining options at RDU including locally-inspired dishes, ethnic cuisines and two North Carolina breweries,” said David Freedman, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority senior vice president and chief revenue officer. “These additions underscore our commitment to reimagine RDU’s concessions program and enhance the guest experience.”

Read more about the new dining options and check them out the next time you visit the airport.

FOR SAVVY TRAVELERS

Save Money When You Travel Through RDU

CEO CORNER

Holiday Travel and a Record Year

Michael J. Landguth
President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

FEBRUARY 2020

At RDU, Minority-Owned Businesses Make a Difference

RDU proudly celebrates Black History Month and the Authority’s focus on diversity and inclusion at the airport. Our Minority, Women-Owned Small Business program continues to flourish and grow along with our region.

“RDU is an economic driver for this region and we want as many businesses as possible to share in that economic opportunity,” said Thiane Carter, director of small business programs. Carter is an industry leader and knows the importance of access, particularly when it comes to the unique opportunity to conduct business at the airport. “Recognizing that advantages and barriers exist, RDU is being intentional about diversity, inclusion and equity in our processes.”

This is where RDU’s growth, Carter’s passion and a business opportunity intersected with local business owner Maurice Webb. Webb and his wife LyAshia are co-owners of Precision Striping & Lot Restorations. This “boot strap” pavement marking business, as the Webbs describe it, has been in business for 10 years. Primarily serving a commercial market, Precision Striping & Lot Restorations’ work has spanned the state of North Carolina, from striping and sealants on parking lots to filling asphalt cracks and sign installation.

This intersection of opportunity led to Precision Striping & Lot Restorations making their mark at RDU. Read the entire story.

IN THE KNOW

RDU Considering Terminal Expansion

Last year, RDU served more guests than ever before and increased demand for air travel is expected to continue. More passengers require more flights, bigger planes and more terminal gates to accommodate the increased activity. RDU’s Terminals 1 and 2 both reach capacity during peak hours such as early morning, leaving terminal expansion as the only option to support growth.

The Authority recently shared a concept to build more gates at Terminal 1, which would bring the total number of gates there to 21. The new gates follow four existing gates that are scheduled to open this spring, when Spirit and Allegiant transition to Terminal 1. Read more about RDU's proposed terminal expansion plans.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

The Sounds of Freedom at RDU

CEO CORNER

Routes and Service in the New Year

Michael J. Landguth
President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

 CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) UPDATE

How RDU is Responding to COVID-19

An outbreak of COVID-19, also known as coronavirus, has now been detected in more than 125 countries, including the United States. The World Health Organization has classified COVID-19 as a global pandemic. The federal government continues to issue guidance regarding air travel, including new restrictions on travel from Europe (with the exception of the United Kingdom) beginning March 13.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper declared a State of Emergency, but it''s important to know that RDU is operating normally. We continue to take proactive measures to to ensure the health and safety of guests in our terminals, including increased disinfection and cleaning of bathrooms and shuttle buses, along with frequently touched surfaces such as ticket counters and kiosks, gate areas, handrails and doorknobs.

Where to Find Information

What About My Flight?

• Air Canada
• Alaska Airlines
• Allegiant
• American Airlines
• Delta Air Lines
• Frontier Airlines
• JetBlue
• Spirit Airlines
• Southwest Airlines
• United Airlines

Steps You Can Take

OCTOBER 2020

RDU Named Top 10 Airport

J.D. Power named RDU ninth among large airports in its 2020 North America Airport Satisfaction Study. This is the second year in a row RDU has ranked a top ten large airport for customer satisfaction by J.D. Power. The ranking is based on more than 26,000 traveler surveys that rated six factors in order of importance:

• Terminal facilities
• Airport arrival/departure
• Baggage claim
• Security check
• Check-in/baggage check
• Food, beverage and retail

Read the full story in the RDU newsroom.

FOR SAVVY TRAVELERS

Popular Aviation YouTuber Goes Behind-the-Scenes at RDU

COMMUNITY CORNER

NCSU Adds Artistic Touch to Terminal 2

Attention Insiders-be on the lookout for a new art installation in Terminal 2. Located directly across from the Market Place at the security exit stairway, this intricate piece of artwork welcomes travelers to the region.

The installation was conceptualized and built by N.C. State design alumni and constructed with layers of natural and painted wood materials. The display features vivid colors and texture and captures the region's Wolfpack pride.

IN THE KNOW

??? Now Playing: RDU''s New Podcast

For podcast enthusiasts, there's no better feeling than loading up episodes of their favorite shows before jetting off on a flight. Now, you can hear what's happening at RDU by subscribing to the airport''s new podcast. Our pilot episode explores how the RDU community prepares for hurricane season.

Each month, The Fly Angle - hosted by the Airport Authority's Communications, Government & Community Affairs team - will go behind-the-scenes at RDU, introducing special guest interviews and answering burning questions about little-known aspects of airport life.

RDU''s new podcast is now streaming on your favorite podcast apps, including:

• Apple Podcasts
• Spotify
• YouTube
• Pocket Casts

CEO CORNER

Safety is Our Priority

Michael J. Landguth
President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

JUNE 2020

Delta Celebrates Major Milestones at RDU

Delta celebrated 50 years of service at RDU on June 15. The airline's first flight from the Triangle was an 89-passenger Douglas DC-9-32 jet, called the "Super DC-9," that departed RDU for Chicago-O'Hare on June 15, 1970. In its first year at RDU, Delta operated six daily flights: four to Chicago, one to Atlanta and one to Miami.

Delta has dramatically grown its presence in the Triangle over the past five decades and more than doubled its service from RDU since 2010, adding 20 additional destinations and more than 25,000 weekly seats. In 2019, Delta added new nonstop service from RDU to Chicago O''Hare, Jacksonville, New Orleans and Pittsburgh.

Delta also marked the end of an era on June 1 when the last "Mad Dog" MD-88 aircraft departed RDU for its retirement flight to Arkansas International Airport. Delta is retiring and dismantling its fleet of MD-88s and MD-90s after more than three decades of service. The legacy of the aircraft spans back to its popularity in the '80s. Delta will replace the MD-88 at RDU with more modern and efficient aircraft.

RDU invited local plane spotters to help honor the occasion and take pictures of its final flight.

IN THE KNOW

Fly Confident. Fly RDU.

The next time you fly through RDU you will notice a number of changes to protect your health and safety and provide confidence when traveling through the airport. Many measures to prevent the spread of illness are already in place with more on the way, as we continue to explore new ways to improve your travel experience.

Janitorial crews are conducting more frequent and thorough cleaning and disinfecting throughout the airport. Hand sanitizer stations are located in the terminals and sneeze guards are installed at ticket counters, information desks, gate counters and baggage service offices.

Digital and physical signage reminds guests to maintain distance, wear face coverings and practice good hygiene to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and other viruses. We are also placing seat covers in the gate waiting areas, signage in the boarding bridges and floor stickers in baggage claim to indicate appropriate distancing measures.

We have rearranged lines to allow for appropriate distancing and installed stanchion signage in the ticket lobby, boarding areas and on the concourse to encourage physical distancing and one-way directional flow.

Be sure to visit the new Fly Confident. Fly RDU. webpage for more details on the actions RDU is taking to protect your health and safety at the airport. You can also learn more about how the global health pandemic is impacting RDU and air travel by visiting RDU's Travel Updates: Coronavirus (COVID-19) webpage.

CEO CORNER

Adapting to Change at RDU

Michael J. Landguth
President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

NOVEMBER 2020

Ready to Travel for the Holidays?

RDU is celebrating the return of nonstop routes just in time for the holidays. This month we welcomed back eight nonstop destinations bringing the number of direct flights served to 37. Added to the RDU map are Austin, TX (AUS), Cancun, Mexico (CUN), Dallas-Love, TX (DAL), Las Vegas, NV (LAS), Montego Bay, Jamaica (MBJ), New Orleans, LA (MSY), Fort Myers, FL (RSW) and Orlando-Sanford, FL (SFB).

As you begin planning your holiday travel, we want to remind you that your health and safety remain a top priority for the airport, airlines and our partners. RDU's Fly Confident webpage provides many resources for travel during the pandemic.

If you're wondering what you can pack in your carry-on and checked bags, visit the what can I bring TSA website for helpful information. This will help provide a smooth experience as you navigate through security screening and on your travel journey.

Also, when packing, don't forget everyone is required to wear a face covering in all areas of the airport and onboard airlines operating at RDU. If you forget, you can
pick-up a free mask at the terminal Guest Services information desk. Travelers also can purchase masks at several of the Shops of RDU.

Finally, remember to book your parking in advance of your trip. You can reserve a space online at least 24 hours in advance through RDU's online booking system. When you book in advance, ParkRDU offers contactless technology that allows guests to enter and exit the deck without interacting with a cashier.

RDU has temporarily consolidated its parking operation in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Guests may park in Central or Premier, conveniently located in the deck between Terminals 1 and 2.

We hope you find these tips helpful as you get ready to visit friends and family over the holidays.

IN THE KNOW

RDU and SAS Collaborate to Forecast Passenger Traffic

A collaboration between Raleigh-Durham International Airport and SAS has led to the development of significantly improved passenger forecast models. Airport leaders are seeking alternative solutions because industry forecasts have become increasingly unreliable due to the unprecedented impact of the global health pandemic on air travel.

Traditional forecasting methods accurately predicted passenger volume within a few points of actual traffic, but they have become varied and inconsistent amid the global health crisis.

With SAS's assistance, RDU improved its monthly passenger forecasting to within two points of actual traffic.

Read more in the RDU Newsroom.

COMMUNITY CORNER

A Special Visitor at RDU

Team RDU was touched to receive customer feedback from a young aviation enthusiast during the early stages of the global health pandemic, when passenger traffic reached record lows and the airport community faced uncertainty about what the future would hold.

10-year-old Jack wrote RDU in May to express his appreciation for airport workers and their commitment to keeping guests safe and the airport open during the pandemic.

"Thank you for looking out for the airport so that it can be a safe and healthy place to be when people have to travel," Jack wrote. "It''s nice of you to help keep the airport running even though you could get sick. You guys are very brave." 

We invited Jack for a tour of RDU. You can read about his visit on our blog and learn why this local fourth grader may have a bright future in the aviation industry by clicking here.

CEO CORNER

RDU Continues to Ensure the Health and Safety of Travelers

President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

JULY 2020

#FlyConfident Video Showcases the New RDU Travel Experience

Travelers can take a closer look at the new travel experience at RDU though the recently launched #FlyConfident video.

RDU and airlines serving the region have implemented many new health and safety measures since the onset of the pandemic to provide guests confidence throughout their travel journey.

The short video follows a traveler through RDU and highlights the new measures they see and experience along the way.

Get the Insider scoop and view the #FlyConfident video!

FOR SAVVY TRAVELERS

Tips for Summer Travel

RDU and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are providing travelers tips for a smooth security screening process and sharing recent changes at the airport security screening area to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Security Screening Tips for Travelers:

• Keep possession of your boarding pass.
• Separate food for x-ray screening.
• Pack smart.
• Bring up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag.
• Practice social distancing.
• Wear a face covering.

• Reduced security lane usage due to the reduction in passenger volume.
• TSA officers at checkpoints wearing masks and gloves.
• TSA officers may wear eye protection and clear plastic face shields at some locations.
• TSA officers changing gloves after each pat-down.
• Plastic shielding installed at many travel document checking podiums, divest, bag search and drop off locations.
• TSA officers practicing social distancing.
• Routine cleaning and disinfecting of frequently touched surfaces in the security checkpoint area.

Travelers are encouraged to check with their airline prior to their trip for specific COVID-19 related guidance and arrive at the airport at least two hours early to allow ample time to check-in, clear security and arrive at the gate.

You can learn more about RDU's new health and safety measures on our Fly Confident. Fly RDU. webpage. For more information on the TSA security screening process during the pandemic, visit www.tsa.gov/coronavirus.

IN THE KNOW

RDU Begins Restoration of Secondary Runway

RDU closed its secondary runway, 5R/23L, on July 6 for crews to make pavement repairs.

Although it is safe for flying, RDU is replacing deteriorating pavement on 5R/23L to maintain the integrity of the runway. All commercial flights will use RDU's primary runway, 5L/23R, until the secondary runway reopens.

Read more about the runway restoration project in the RDU Newsroom.

CEO CORNER

Preparing for Your Return

President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority

APRIL 2020

A Closer Look at COVID-19's Impact at RDU

A Message from Michael Landguth

AUGUST 2020

In and Around RDU

Airport Sightings
RDU recently welcomed both Air Force One and Air Force Two to the airport. It was a spectacular sight! We appreciate the photos you shared with us of these beauties spanning the sky and flying into and out of RDU. A fun fact: the Air Force One pictured above is a Boeing VC-25A.

Mask Up
It is more important than ever that you remember to 'mask up' when you come to the airport. Airlines have adopted strict face covering requirements to protect passenger health and reassure customers of their commitment to a safe air travel experience.

Every airline at RDU requires customers to wear a face covering during flight and many have tightened the rules around the types of masks permitted and limited or eliminated face covering exemptions. The airlines also have the ability to revoke a passenger's flight privileges for refusing to wear a mask. For a roundup of precautions RDU's airlines are taking, visit the RDU Newsroom.

Airline Safety
Airlines continue to strengthen the steps they are taking to protect your health throughout your trip. Travelers will notice new signage, hand sanitizer stations and plexiglass shields at ticket and gate counters. Kiosks, queue lines and seating areas are arranged to accommodate social distancing.

Onboard the aircraft, airlines are conducting more rigorous cleaning and disinfecting as well as boarding back-to-front, blocking seats and adjusting food and beverage services to allow for distancing between people. During flight, fresh air is circulated in the cabin every two to three minutes and many airplanes have hospital grade HEPA filters that remove more than 99 percent of airborne particles.
 
In the Terminals
We're excited to announce that the Delta Air Lines Sky Club plans to reopen on Sept. 3. The Sky Club is located on the third floor of Terminal 2 across from Gate C-3. The American Airlines Admirals Club reopened recently as a customer service center but is not offering food or beverages at this time. The United Club remains closed.

We also want to welcome back California Pizza Kitchen, Whisky River, Root & Branch and InMotion! Visit RDU.com for a list of shopping and dining options and hours of service.

FOR SAVVY TRAVELERS

Next Time You Fly, Go Touch-less

ParkRDU has 'contactless' technology that allows guests to pay for parking without interacting with a cashier. You can book parking at least 24 hours in advance through RDU's online booking system.

The entrance gate opens with a QR code and a license plate reader automatically opens the exit gate when you leave. There are credit card scanners at every entry and exit lane that allow guests to pay with mobile apps, and pay-on-foot kiosks that allow guests to pay with their smart phones and watches.

All parking is temporarily consolidated into the deck, which is conveniently located between Terminals 1 and 2. Guests may park in ParkRDU Central or Premiere. The daily maximum Central rate is currently reduced to $10 per day.

IN THE KNOW

Preparing for Inclement Weather

It's hurricane season and RDU is prepared for the inclement weather this region often faces.

Every year, RDU holds a training prior to the start of hurricane season, which runs from June 1 to Nov. 30. When a hurricane or tropical storm is forecasted to potentially impact RDU, airport operations staff begin preparing the airport up to 72 hours prior its arrival. Preparations include monitoring the hourly weather updates, coordinating with Air Traffic Control, mobilizing essential personnel, and securing all vehicles, buildings and structures.

Once the storm passes, staff assess the airfield, buildings and campus for damages. Staff then make any necessary repairs and resume normal operations.

In case you missed it, the photo above was taken the last week of July when our primary runway, 5L/23R, experienced a lightning strike during an intense thunderstorm. RDU operations and maintenance teams responded quickly and conducted repairs within a few hours to reopen the runway.

COMMUNITY CORNER

Partnering with Amazon

RDU is constantly looking for ways to partner with businesses that fulfill community needs and drive the Triangle's economy.

The Authority recently signed an agreement with Amazon to lease 245 parking stalls in Parking Lot 5 for the storage of delivery vans and other vehicles. The agreement provides Amazon a secure parking area close to its new fulfillment center just a few miles from the airport. It also allows the Authority to lease the unused lot and generate a new source of revenue that is not dependent on flight activity. With fewer people flying during the pandemic, the airport's traditional sources of revenue are at an all-time low.

CEO CORNER

A Safe Travel Experience at RDU

President and CEO, Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority