Service to new markets or additional flights is not a case of 'ask and you shall receive'. Many factors come into play in air service development. RDU serves a 5.3 million population base that stretches from Southern Virginia to the NC coast.

There are many qualities an airline looks for in an airport and the region an airport serves. First, there must be a strong passenger base. In addition to passengers, an airport must boast a good infrastructure, local travel demand to support new air service, strong economic, demographic and tourism sectors and a united community in support of expanded air service. These factors are joined by an analysis of traffic data, ongoing communication between RDU and target carriers, and a linking of air service markets and economic development. When these elements are aligned, air service is likely to grow.

When you review the list of factors needed to succeed, it becomes clear that this is not something the airport can do on its own. That is why RDU is working with Research Triangle Regional Partnership and local business leaders to create a plan of action to keep RDU's air service growing. Following is a snapshot of the plan:

New destinations don't arrive over night. Many factors influence the process to land a new city such as economy and fuel prices. RDU believes that its passengers deserve the best service possible and works diligently with our community partners to add additional cities to the list of non-stop destinations.

Airport comparisons — Size vs. Service

RDU is a ‘medium hub' airport ranking 43rd in the nation in total enplanements. RDU is also the 37th largest Origination and Destination travel market in the US, which refers to the number of passengers who begin or end their trips at RDU.

How RDU 's service compares to airports of similar size.

Current non-stop destinations from RDU.

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