Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is celebrating a significant milestone as it inches closer to realizing its long-planned $500 million runway expansion project. After years of rigorous assessments and analysis, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officially granted its authorization at the close of August, marking a pivotal step towards the airport’s ambitious growth plans.
Michael Landguth, CEO of the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority, emphasized the significance of obtaining FAA authorization. Noting that it provides airlines with the assurance that a replacement runway is on the horizon. This assurance is pivotal for maintaining uninterrupted flight services, despite the current runway’s approaching lifespan expiration.
RDU runway expansion project timeline
The approved Raleigh-Durham International Airport runway expansion project aims to construct a sprawling new runway spanning over 10,600 feet. With an anticipated completion date set for 2028. This substantial upgrade is considered crucial for RDU, as the existing primary runway, dating back to the 1980s and measuring 10,000 feet, is desperately in need of replacement. Fortunately, the new runway’s design includes a strategic placement more than 500 feet west of the current airstrip. This placement will enable the continued operation of the existing runway during construction, ensuring minimal disruptions to air travel.
Bill Sandifer, Chief Development Officer at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), outlined the forthcoming steps in the expansion project. The airport plans to submit state and local permits in the next 30-60 days, indicating ongoing project progress. Construction activities will start as early as next year.. Preliminary site work, including the demolition of three buildings near Lumley Road, scheduled to begin in the interim.
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The Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is expanding its runway and advancing Terminal 1’s planning and concept designs for future expansion. This includes improvements to various airport amenities such as roads, curbs, parking, ticketing, gates, concessions, and security zones, enhancing the travel experience for passengers. These developments will make RDU a dynamic hub for domestic and international travel in the future.
