Morrisville, N.C. — Six years after United Airlines ended service to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, the carrier plans to take off again from RDU on Thursday.

United ceased operations at RDU in October 2001, when 9/11 severely curtailed demand for flights. The carrier maintained flights from RDU to Chicago and Dulles International Airport in Washington, D.C., through an agreement with a commuter airline to operate as United Express.

The move marks the first time United has returned to take over its operations after downsizing to United Express service, officials said.

“United’s return speaks volumes about its resiliency and its commitment to the Research Triangle region,” RDU Director John Brantley said in a statement. “The past six years have been trying times for the airline industry, but United has re-emerged to offer more service to three popular destinations for our customers."

United will offer 12 daily departures to Chicago, Denver and Washington-Dulles.