Runway 5L-23R Replacement

Greater Adventures

As RDU continues to grow, our new runway will carry more passengers and cargo to destinations around the world. The 10,639-foot runway will provide important economic opportunities for our region, as well as make room for the future addition of gates at Terminal 2.

Project highlights: Construction is underway on one of RDU’s most important projects, the replacement of the airport’s primary commercial runway, 5L-23R. The new 10,639-foot runway will be located 537 feet west of the current location, and the old runway will be converted to a taxiway. Lumley Road will be relocated to meet Federal Aviation Administration safety standards.

The new runway will provide greater economic opportunities for the region, ensure RDU maintains its transatlantic connections and allow domestic long-haul aircraft to move more passengers and cargo. It will also make room for the future addition of gates at Terminal 2.

The Authority broke ground on the project in October 2023 and is currently performing site work, grading, drainage and utility relocation. The runway is expected to be completed in 2029.