There will be one less parking lot for travelers at Raleigh-Durham International Airport, starting in early 2026.
According to RDU, the ParkRDU Economy 4 lot near Interstate 540 and U.S. Highway 70 will permanently close to airport guests on Jan. 2 and become an employee-only parking lot.
Park Economy 4 will not accept online bookings from travelers beyond Jan. 1. Guests will still have access to the other parking options: Economy 3, Express, Central and Premier.
For travelers already parking in Economy 4 with plans to return after Jan.1, there are no changes.
“You can’t book new parking reservations after January 1, but if
you’re parked there now, that’s fine. You’ll be able to get your car and leave
just like you always would,” RDU Director of Media Relations Stephanie Hawco said.
The ParkRDU Economy 3 lot is being expanded to accommodate the changes from Economy 4 and add 7,000 new spaces, a customer amenity building with restrooms, solar panels and EV chargers. New spaces are to open in phases throughout 2026, part of a $164 million expansion plan.
If you are driving to Park Economy 3 from north of the airport, you can save time and avoid road congestion by following I-540 to southbound Aviation Parkway, then turning left at Sheetz at the intersection of Aviation Parkway and National Guard Drive. The entrance to Park Economy 3 is on the right.
Travelers can reserve parking online at www.ParkRDU.com to get a spot in the parking garage or lot of their choice.
The recent construction around RDU is part of a $2.5 billion capital improvement program, called “Transform RDU.” It will include a new runway, expanded Terminal 2, more ticketing, more international arrivals and expanded security checkpoint lanes and baggage claim stations. Construction is estimated to finish in 2032.
