RDU (Raleigh-Durham) window seat guide

At Raleigh Durham International in Raleigh-Durham: for takeoff, sit on the Right side; for landing, sit on the Left side. Notable views include: Downtown Durham skyline, Duke University campus, Research Triangle Park, Eno River State Park (farther north on the horizon).

When taking off from Raleigh Durham International (RDU), sit on the Right side for the best views. Departing on runway 23R, the aircraft climbs out on a southwest heading, and the right side faces almost due northwest — right toward Durham. Passengers get a good look at downtown Durham's skyline, the Duke University campus, and the wooded corporate campuses of Research Triangle Park sliding by below. Notable sights include: Downtown Durham skyline, Duke University campus, Research Triangle Park, Eno River State Park (farther north on the horizon).

When landing at Raleigh Durham International (RDU), sit on the Left side for the best views. Landing on 23L means approaching from the northeast and banking toward the southwest, so left-side passengers get a good angled view south toward downtown Raleigh's skyline in the distance. Right-side seats mostly face Durham and RTP office parks, which are less visually distinct from altitude. Notable sights include: Downtown Raleigh skyline, William B. Umstead State Park lakes, Crabtree Creek corridor, RTP treeline in the far distance.

The best window seat at Raleigh Durham International (RDU) depends on several factors: the typical runway used for your departure or arrival, the geographic features around Raleigh-Durham (mountains, coastlines, city skylines), weather conditions, and time of day. Morning and evening flights often offer the best lighting for scenic views.