Accessibility
Raleigh–Durham (RDU) Airport Accessibility & Wheelchair Services
Wheelchair assistance at Raleigh–Durham International Airport is provided free by your airline — request it at booking for best results. For security screening help, call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel to have a Passenger Support Specialist waiting at the checkpoint. Family lanes, service animal relief areas, and sensory rooms are covered below.
Airline-provided service
Wheelchair assistance
Request at booking or at your airline's check-in counter; RDU operates two separate terminal buildings (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) that must be coordinated independently.
Tip: request at booking rather than at the airport — airline wheelchair assistants are in higher demand at peak times and early requests are filled first.
TSA Cares
Free security screening assistance
TSA Cares is a free helpline and on-site assistance program for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or other circumstances that may affect the security screening process.
How to use: Call 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel. A Passenger Support Specialist will meet you at the RDU security checkpoint and guide you through screening at no charge.
A Passenger Support Specialist will meet you at the checkpoint. Call 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel and specify Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.
Security lanes
RDU does not have a permanently signed dedicated family lane at all checkpoints. Ask any TSA agent at the checkpoint for assistance — agents are trained to help travelers with special needs and can route you around standard queue lines.
Service animal relief areas
Before security at curbside areas in both terminals; after security, service animal relief areas are in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 concourse levels — ask any RDU staff member for the nearest location.
Note: service animals are permitted throughout all airport areas without restriction. Emotional support animals follow individual airline policies — check with your carrier before travel.
Quiet and sensory room
RDU does not currently have a confirmed public sensory room. Contact RDU Guest Services (919-840-2100) for quiet space availability.
Wheelchair and mobility device rentals
Available from Guest Services in both terminals and at baggage claim.
Motorized scooters and power wheelchairs are generally available from airlines for gate-to-gate use; contact your carrier directly if you need a motorized device beyond a standard transport chair.
Pro Tip
RDU's two terminals have no airside connection — a connecting flight that changes terminals (possible with some code-share flights) requires exiting security and re-screening at a separate checkpoint. If you have mobility needs and a cross-terminal connection, request wheelchair coordination from your airline well in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Is wheelchair assistance free at RDU airport?
Yes — wheelchair assistance at RDU is provided free of charge by your airline or their contracted ground handler. Request it at booking or check-in. The airline arranges and covers the cost; no tipping is required, though it is appreciated.
How do I contact TSA Cares before my flight from RDU?
Call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before your flight. The helpline is open weekdays 8 a.m.–11 p.m. ET and weekends/holidays 9 a.m.–8 p.m. ET. You can also submit a request online at tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares. A Passenger Support Specialist will meet you at the RDU security checkpoint at no cost.
Does RDU airport have a family security lane?
Raleigh–Durham International Airport does not have a permanently signed dedicated family lane at all checkpoints, but TSA officers are trained to accommodate travelers who need extra time. Ask any TSA officer at the checkpoint for assistance; agents are trained to support travelers with special needs at both terminal checkpoints.
Where is the service animal relief area at RDU airport?
Before security at curbside areas in both terminals; after security, service animal relief areas are in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 concourse levels — ask any RDU staff member for the nearest location. Service animals are permitted throughout all airport areas without restriction. Emotional support animals follow your individual airline's policies.
See also: RDU TSA PreCheck lanes · Flying with disabilities guide · RDU security tips
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