GoTriangle RDU Shuttle: Hours, Fares & How It Works 2026

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The GoTriangle RDU shuttle is a public bus service connecting Raleigh-Durham International Airport to the Regional Transit Center (RTC) and surrounding Triangle communities via Route 100. Based on current GoTriangle published schedules, the service runs Monday through Saturday with limited Sunday service. Fares are affordable — but if you're also wondering about parking costs, compare RDU off-site parking from $7.66/day on Triply before you decide which option works best for your trip.

• Route: GoTriangle Route 100 connects downtown Raleigh's Regional Transit Center (RTC) to RDU Terminal 1, with connections toward Research Triangle Park.
• Schedule: Service runs Monday–Saturday; Route 100 provides Sunday coverage (verify current Sunday hours at GoTriangle's RDU Shuttle page).
• Fare: Check GoTriangle's website for current fares — pay via the Umo app, cash, or fare card at the time of travel.
• Trip time: According to TransitApp data, the RTC-to-Terminal 1 ride takes approximately 9 minutes once on board.
• Parking alternative: Off-site hotel lots near RDU start at $7.66/day with free shuttles — often cheaper than a round-trip bus fare for longer trips.
• RTC overnight parking: A limited free overnight parking pass program exists at the RTC for shuttle riders — see details below.

What Is the GoTriangle RDU Shuttle and How Does It Work?

The GoTriangle RDU Shuttle is a public transit route operated by GoTriangle, the regional transit authority serving Wake, Durham, and Orange counties. It uses Route 100 to link Raleigh's Regional Transit Center with both terminals at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. The route runs along Airport Blvd and serves stops near Slater Road before reaching the airport.

The service is designed for Triangle residents who want an affordable, car-free option to reach RDU. Riders board at the Regional Transit Center (RTC) in downtown Raleigh, ride through Morrisville along Interstate 40, and arrive at the airport terminals. According to TransitApp, the RTC-to-Terminal 1 segment takes roughly 9 minutes — making it one of the fastest bus connections to any major airport in the Southeast.

On return, the process reverses. You catch the bus at the designated stop outside the terminal and ride back to the RTC or another Route 100 stop. The RTC also connects to other GoTriangle routes — including Routes 700, 800, and 805 — giving riders from Durham, Cary, and Chapel Hill a path to RDU without transferring mid-route at the airport.

GoTriangle RDU Shuttle Schedule: Hours, Frequency, and Routes

The RDU Shuttle via Route 100 runs Monday through Saturday. GoTriangle also provides Sunday service through Route 100, though frequency may differ. Always verify current timetables directly on the GoTriangle RDU Shuttle page before your trip, as schedules can change seasonally or around major holidays.

Based on competitor and TransitApp data, the shuttle operates at approximately 30-minute intervals during service hours. The total number of daily trips and the precise first and last departure times are best confirmed on GoTriangle's live schedule tool — these details shift with schedule updates and are not reliably published by third-party sources.

Here is what is confirmed about the route structure:

• Terminus A: Regional Transit Center (RTC), downtown Raleigh
• Stop 2: Slater Rd / Carrington Mill Blvd
• Stop 3: Slater Rd / Copley Pkwy
• Stop 4: Airport Blvd / Slater Rd
• Stop 5: RDU Terminal 1
• Terminal 2: Confirm with GoTriangle whether this is a separate stop or a short walk from Terminal 1

Connecting routes at the RTC include Routes 700, 800, and 805, which serve Durham, North Raleigh, and the broader Triangle region. If you're coming from Durham or Chapel Hill, you'll typically transfer at the RTC before boarding Route 100 toward RDU.

How Much Does the GoTriangle RDU Shuttle Cost?

GoTriangle fares are set by the regional transit authority and are subject to periodic adjustment. The exact current fare is best confirmed on GoTriangle's website or through the Umo app before you travel. GoTriangle does not publicly list the fare as a fixed dollar amount on all channels, so third-party sources — including competitor articles — do not quote a specific price.

Payment options include:

• Umo app: Download the app, create an account, and load funds before boarding. Accepted payment methods include major credit and debit cards.
• Cash: Exact change is typically required on GoTriangle buses.
• GoTriangle fare card: A reloadable card available at the RTC and select locations.

Setting up the Umo app before your trip is the easiest option. It speeds up boarding and lets you check your balance in advance. Download Umo, register with your email, and add a payment method — the whole process takes under five minutes.

Is the GoTriangle RDU Shuttle Cheaper Than Parking or Rideshare?

For a single traveler on a short trip, the GoTriangle RDU shuttle is almost always the most affordable option. A rideshare from downtown Raleigh to RDU can run $25–$40 each way depending on surge pricing and time of day. A round trip adds up fast.

For longer trips, the math shifts. Here's how common options compare for a 7-night trip:

The GoTriangle shuttle wins on cost — but only if you live near a Route 100 stop or the RTC. If you're driving from Cary, Durham, or another suburb, off-site hotel lots offer a strong middle ground. Based on current Triply rates, hotel park-and-fly lots near RDU start at $7.66/day — roughly 47% less than ParkRDU Economy — and include free shuttles. See the full breakdown in our RDU park-and-fly hotels guide.

If you want to skip the shuttle entirely, review the RDU parking rates for every on-airport lot to see which option fits your budget and schedule.

Where Do You Catch the GoTriangle RDU Shuttle?

The GoTriangle RDU shuttle departs from the Regional Transit Center (RTC) in downtown Raleigh. The RTC is GoTriangle's main bus hub and the starting point for Route 100. At the airport, buses stop at Terminal 1 on the departures level. Check with GoTriangle directly about the Terminal 2 stop — it may be a short walk from Terminal 1 or a separate stop depending on current routing.

On return from RDU, look for the designated bus stop zone at Terminal 1. This is separate from rideshare pickup and hotel shuttle zones. Hotel shuttles, for comparison, use the red curb zones outside each terminal — not the same location as public bus stops. Allow extra time to find the correct zone if this is your first time riding.

If you're connecting from Durham, the Durham–Chapel Hill area, or points north, you'll board a feeder route (such as Route 700, 800, or 805) to reach the RTC first, then transfer to Route 100. The RTC has seating, real-time departure boards, and covered waiting areas.

How to Ride the GoTriangle RDU Shuttle: Step-by-Step for First-Time Riders

First-time riders have a clear, simple path from door to terminal. Follow these steps:

1. Download the Umo app on your phone and create an account. Load your fare before leaving home so you don't scramble at the stop.
2. Check the current Route 100 schedule at GoTriangle's RDU Shuttle page. Note the departure time nearest to when you need to leave.
3. Arrive at the RTC at least 10 minutes before your bus. Buses run approximately every 30 minutes — missing one means a 30-minute wait.
4. Board at the correct bay. The RTC has multiple bays for different routes. Look for the Route 100 signage or ask RTC staff.
5. Tap or scan your Umo app to pay when boarding. Or use exact cash if you didn't set up the app.
6. Ride to Terminal 1. The trip from the RTC takes roughly 9 minutes, per TransitApp data. Stay seated and watch the stop display.
7. Alight at Terminal 1 and confirm your terminal before your flight. Check rdu.com/flights/airlines in advance to know which terminal serves your airline.
8. On return, find the Route 100 bus stop at Terminal 1 and board back to the RTC. Check the return schedule before your flight lands so you know when the next bus departs.

Plan to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight. Factor in the 9-minute ride plus walking time in the terminal. Reviewing TSA PreCheck enrollment can also cut your security wait significantly if you fly frequently.

Free Overnight Parking at the RTC: How to Apply and What You Need to Know

The Regional Transit Center offers a free overnight parking program for GoTriangle RDU shuttle riders. This is one of the least-covered perks of the service — only one competitor article mentions it, and none explain the details fully.

Here is what is known based on available data:

• Capacity is limited: Only 17 overnight spaces are available at the RTC, so spots fill up fast.
• A pass is required: You must apply for and print an overnight parking pass before your trip — you cannot simply park without one.
• Application lead time: Apply in advance through GoTriangle. The exact lead time required is best confirmed directly with GoTriangle.
• Eligibility: The pass is for travelers using the RDU shuttle, not general RTC commuters.
• Pass must be displayed: Print your pass and place it visibly in your vehicle.

With only 17 spaces, this program works best for travelers who plan well ahead. If the RTC lot is full, you'll need a backup plan. For longer trips, off-site hotel parking near RDU starting at $7.66/day may actually be more reliable — and often cheaper over a week than the hassle of securing a limited RTC pass.

GoTriangle RDU Shuttle Tips: Luggage, Accessibility, and What to Expect

The GoTriangle RDU shuttle is a standard public bus — not a dedicated airport express coach. Keep these practical points in mind before you ride:

Traveling with Luggage

• Standard rolling suitcases and carry-ons fit in the aisle or overhead areas on most GoTriangle buses. Very large bags can be awkward during peak hours.
• Avoid soft duffel bags that take up floor space and block the aisle.
• Board early at the RTC so you can stow your bag before the bus fills up.
• If you're traveling with a lot of gear, a hotel park-and-fly shuttle is easier — most offer trunk-to-terminal service.

Accessibility

• GoTriangle buses are ADA-compliant with low floors, ramps, and designated seating for riders with mobility needs.
• The RTC has accessible boarding areas. Confirm specific accommodation needs with GoTriangle before travel via their customer service line.
• Wheelchair users should board at the front door and let the driver know you need the ramp deployed.

What to Do If You Miss the Last Shuttle

• Check the last departure time before your flight. If your flight lands after service ends, you'll need a backup.
• Rideshare via Uber or Lyft from RDU is available — pickup zones are on the lower level of each terminal per rdu.com ground transportation.
• Hotel shuttles at the red curb zones outside each terminal are another option — the Sheraton Imperial runs 24/7 and is the only off-site lot shuttle that operates around the clock.

On-Time Performance

TransitApp cites Route 100's on-time performance at roughly 80%. That's solid for public transit, but it means 1 in 5 trips may run late. Build buffer time into your airport arrival plan. For a domestic flight, aim to reach the terminal at least 90 minutes before boarding, even with PreCheck. Review TSA's official screening guidelines to understand what to expect at the checkpoint.

GoTriangle RDU Shuttle vs. Driving: Which Makes Sense for Your Trip?

The GoTriangle RDU shuttle is the right choice when you live near a Route 100 stop, travel light, and want the lowest possible cost. It's especially good for solo business travelers commuting from downtown Raleigh.

Driving makes more sense when you're traveling with family, have multiple checked bags, or are departing at a time when the shuttle doesn't run. If you drive, off-site hotel lots near RDU offer the best value — $7.66/day to $11.70/day based on current Triply rates (verified October 2026), compared to $14.50/day at ParkRDU Economy on-airport. That's a saving of up to 47% for a 7-night trip.

For a complete picture of every transport option from the Triangle to RDU, see our full getting to and from RDU airport guide.

Ready to lock in your parking? Compare RDU off-site parking lots from $7.66/day on Triply — book online in minutes and skip the parking stress on travel day.