RDU to Reduce Parking Options for Travelers Post-New Year
Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is set to reduce parking options for travelers starting January 2, 2026. The ParkRDU Economy 4 lot will permanently close and transition to employee-only use. This closure marks a significant shift for airport guests.
Details of Parking Changes at RDU
Park Economy 4, located near Interstate 540 and U.S. Highway 70, will no longer accept online parking reservations after January 1, 2026. Existing travelers using this lot can still retrieve their vehicles without any disruption.
Stephanie Hawco, RDU’s Director of Media Relations, confirmed that travelers with current parking arrangements will be unaffected by the closure for their return trips.
Alternative Parking Options
Travelers will continue to have access to several other parking facilities at RDU:
- Economy 3
- Express
- Central
- Premier
To accommodate the closure of Economy 4, the ParkRDU Economy 3 lot is expanding. This expansion will add 7,000 new parking spaces along with a customer amenity building, which will feature restrooms, solar panels, and EV charging stations. The new spaces will open in phases throughout 2026.
Expansion Plans and Improvements
The enhancement of Park Economy 3 is part of RDU’s broader $164 million expansion plan. This initiative is within the framework of the “Transform RDU” project, a $2.5 billion capital improvement program. This extensive development will introduce a new runway, expand Terminal 2, and increase the capacity for ticketing, international arrivals, security checkpoints, and baggage claim stations.
Construction is expected to conclude by 2032, transforming RDU into a more efficient and accommodating airport.
Driving Directions to Park Economy 3
Travelers heading to Park Economy 3 from the north can optimize their route. Follow I-540 southbound to Aviation Parkway, then turn left at Sheetz at the intersection of Aviation Parkway and National Guard Drive. The entrance to Park Economy 3 will be on the right side.
For hassle-free parking, travelers are encouraged to reserve their spots online at www.ParkRDU.com.
