Travel

Lines growing at RDU as more travelers become comfortable with flying

RDU had half a million passengers in March. April exceeded that number and May is expected to see the most travelers since the start of the pandemic.

Posted Updated

By
Leslie Moreno
, WRAL reporter
MORRISVILLE, N.C. — If you’ve recently traveled through RDU Airport, you may have noticed an increase in foot traffic.

“It was really crowded but it was flowing,” said traveler Ashley Gray.

Gray is one of many slowly adjusting to travel again.

“I was a little scared but now I feel safer with more people being vaccinated and stuff,” Gray said.

RDU had half a million passengers in March. April exceeded that number and May is expected to see the most travelers since the start of the pandemic. Jake Potter with RDU says travelers should pack some patience this time around.

“We think our growth is going to continue," Potter said. "This airport was growing very fast prior to the pandemic and the economics behind that haven’t changed."

Flights at RDU are also growing. United Airlines just added a nonstop connection to the west coast. Potter says it’s great for business, but it also means travelers can expect longer wait times.

Jeff Hampton is a frequent traveler, he says he’s noticed the increase within the last couple of months. Not just here at RDU, but in Florida and Atlanta as well.

“It’s definitely increasing, a lot more people traveling a lot more families traveling now,” Jeff Hampton, said. “The lines to get through to things is a little longer than normal."

RDU says its remote lot is still closed off. Instead, they are encouraging travelers to book their parking in advance to save some time and avoid lines.

You are still required to wear a mask when traveling through RDU.

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