If you live in Cary, North Carolina, and need to fly internationally, Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is probably your go-to. RDU serves as the main hub for international flights near Cary, offering reliable airlines like Copa Airlines for trips to Latin America and the Caribbean.
This airport makes it easy to reach a bunch of global destinations without a long drive.
With multiple terminals and airlines servicing international routes, your travel experience from Cary through RDU is usually smooth. Some international flights operate from different terminals, so knowing where to go can save you a headache.
Whether you’re flying for business or just trying to get away, you’ll find a few carriers that fit your needs. RDU’s location close to Cary means you’re not spending forever just getting to your flight.
You can expect a range of services designed to make international travel simpler, from parking to check-in. By choosing RDU and its international airlines, you can connect to the world with a lot less hassle than you might expect.
Key Takeaways
- Raleigh-Durham International Airport is the main international airport serving Cary residents.
- Several international airlines offer direct routes from RDU to key global destinations.
- The airport provides convenient access and services for international travelers near Cary.
Overview of International Airlines at RDU
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) offers a decent selection of international airlines. You can find flights to plenty of important global destinations without always having to connect somewhere else.
The choices cover major carriers and a mix of flight types to fit different travel needs.
Major International Carriers
At RDU, you’ll spot several major international airlines on key global routes. Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines all offer direct international flights to places in Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
Lufthansa and Air France provide nonstop flights to big cities in Germany and France, which are great jumping-off points for the rest of Europe. Icelandair is in the mix too, making it easy to connect through Reykjavik if you’re heading to northern Europe.
Copa Airlines is a standout for gateway routes to Latin America and the Caribbean. These airlines make it possible to fly internationally from RDU without too many extra stops.
Types of International Flights Offered
From Raleigh-Durham, you’ve got access to both nonstop and direct international flights. Nonstop flights get you straight to your destination—no interruptions.
Direct flights might have a stop but keep the same flight number, so you don’t have to switch planes. The airport’s international service covers long-haul flights to Europe, Central America, and the Caribbean.
You’ll find regular flights to cities like Frankfurt, Paris, Reykjavik, and Panama City. This variety means you can pick faster nonstop routes when you’re in a hurry, or go for flexible direct flights if you don’t mind a stop along the way.
Traveling From Cary to Global Destinations
You can reach a lot of international spots by flying from the nearby Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) or by connecting through bigger hubs. Nonstop flights from RDU are a bit limited for far-off places, but there are solid connection options that open up the world.
Most Popular International Routes
RDU offers direct flights mostly to nearby countries like Canada and Mexico. For farther destinations like Europe or Asia, you’ll usually need one stop.
Popular routes include:
- Toronto and Montreal (Canada)
- Cancun and Mexico City (Mexico)
- London via connections through other airports
If you’re hoping to get to places like Frankfurt or other major European cities, you’ll typically connect through big hubs like Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) or fly airlines such as United or American.
Connection Options Through Major Hubs
Since Cary doesn’t have its own international airport, you’ll rely on RDU or other hubs like Charlotte for long-haul flights. From RDU, you can hop on a domestic flight with carriers like Delta, Spirit, or Alaska Airlines to reach bigger hubs.
Here are some hubs to keep in mind:
| Hub Airport | Airlines | Key International Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) | American Airlines | Frankfurt, London, Paris, Tokyo |
| Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL) | Delta, Spirit | Europe, Asia, South America |
| Newark Liberty International (EWR) | United Airlines, Avelo | Frankfurt, Tel Aviv, European cities |
By flying through these hubs, you get access to a ton of international routes. This setup lets you take advantage of local Cary and RDU area airports while still reaching most global cities.
Airport Experience for International Travelers
When you’re traveling internationally through Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), you’ll find well-organized facilities and a pretty smooth check-in and security process. There are several transportation choices too.
These things help make your time at the airport more comfortable and efficient.
Terminal 2 Facilities and Amenities
Terminal 2 at RDU is where most international flights leave from. You’ll find dining options ranging from quick snacks to actual sit-down meals.
There are also shops for travel essentials, gifts, and books. The terminal is clean and not hard to navigate.
Seating areas are set up near the gates so you can wait comfortably. Free Wi-Fi covers the entire terminal, so you can stay connected (or just scroll aimlessly).
You can get help at information desks, and staff often speak multiple languages if you’re lost or have questions. Charging stations are dotted throughout the terminal, so your devices don’t die on you.
Check-In, Security, and TSA PreCheck
When you get to RDU, most international airlines have check-in counters in Terminal 2. It’s smart to check in early—lines can get long, especially during peak hours.
RDU uses the standard TSA security process. If you’re enrolled in TSA PreCheck, you can breeze through a bit faster.
TSA PreCheck lanes are usually shorter, and you don’t have to take off your shoes or pull out your laptop. Security officers are professional, and the process is generally quick, but it’s still wise to allow extra time—especially if you’ve got carry-ons or you’re traveling with family.
Ground Transportation Options
RDU gives you a handful of ways to get to Cary or wherever else you’re headed nearby.
Taxis and rideshares are easy to find—they pick folks up just outside Terminal 2.
If you’d rather drive yourself, you’ll spot rental car desks right in the terminal.
Shuttle buses are always looping around, taking people to parking lots and hotels.
Public transit’s an option too. Local buses link the airport with Raleigh and other surrounding towns.
It’s probably smart to check bus schedules before you go, just so you’re not left waiting.