Raleigh/Durham's Terminal 2 to Debut This Fall

It's the first new terminal at Raleigh/Durham International (RDU) in two decades, and it's set to open on October 26. That's when Phase One of the $570 million facility opens. Terminal 2 replaces Concourse C, which was built in 1987 as a hub for American Airlines. While Raleigh/Durham is still a focus city for American, the hub's gone.

Raleigh/Durham intends Terminal 2 to be one of those cutting-edge affairs that pampers passengers, gets them through security quicker, and offers ample places to board their flights. T2 will:

- Feature an architectural design that guides flyers from curb to gate, one that reflects the region's history;

- Sport 40 electronic check-in kiosks, and a counter area configured to cut congestion;

- Have a security checkpoint equipped with the latest gear, and designed to take advantage of lessons learned in moving passengers through this least-liked point in their passage;

- Offer more than 25 shops and restaurants. Look for 42nd Street Oyster Bar, and Carolina Ale House. There are organic food options too, and national brands;

- Feature 19 boarding gates;

- Provide a new processing area for international travelers, one that no longer requires arriving flyers to go through screening before they leave the terminal.

Raleigh/Durham is the quintessential “O&D” (origin and destination) airport. It's not a connecting hub. Not anymore. Raleigh/Durham officials say: “Nearly 100 percent of RDU's travelers either begin or end their trip at [the airport].” Terminal 2's design takes that into consideration.

© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler