$95 Cheap Flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Raleigh (RDU)

Popular airlines from Buffalo Niagara Intl. Airport (BUF) to Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

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Cheap Flights from Buffalo to Raleigh (BUF-RDU)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $95 for one-way flights and $161 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
United
Delta
United
United
United
United
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
Frontier Airlines

Alternative airports near Raleigh

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight from Buffalo Niagara Intl. to Raleigh - Durham Intl.

Buffalo (BUF) to Raleigh (RDU) at a glance

Travel from Buffalo (BUF) to Raleigh (RDU) with a selection of airlines catering to this domestic short-haul route. Explore options from both low-cost and full-service carriers to discover cheap fares from Buffalo that align with your budget and schedule. Whether you're seeking the cheapest flights to Raleigh or convenient weekly flights from Buffalo, you’ll find all the essential information for your journey from Buffalo Niagara International Airport to Raleigh-Durham International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 1h 45m non-stop
  • Route distance: roughly 500 miles (805 km)
  • Flights per week: around 20+ flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $65–$285, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF) to Raleigh - Durham International Airport (RDU)

According to recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Buffalo to Raleigh, often selected for one-stop and non-stop options. Popular layover points include Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT) with about a 1-hour layover, Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) with a 1 hour and 15-minute layover, and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) which typically has a 1-hour layover. These choices allow you to compare prices, total travel times, and cabin classes to find the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This comprehensive airline provides one-stop service, with one-way ticket prices usually falling between $80 and $305. It operates around 41% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight duration of 3 hours and a total travel time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly airline, Southwest offers one-stop options with one-way fares typically ranging from $75 to $315. It covers about 18% of departures along this route, with a flight time of 3 hours and an overall journey time of around 4 hours and 15 minutes, factoring in the layover.
  • United: A full-service airline, United provides one-stop service with one-way fares generally between $90 and $315. This carrier accounts for around 13% of departures on this route, featuring an in-flight time of 3 hours and a total travel duration of about 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
  • Delta: Another major player, Delta offers one-stop service with one-way prices usually ranging from $90 to $305. It represents roughly 12% of departures on this route, with a flight duration of 3 hours and a total journey time of approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, including layover.
  • Frontier Airlines: This low-cost carrier provides both non-stop and one-stop service, with one-way fares typically from $65 to $210. Frontier accounts for about 10% of departures on this route, with a non-stop flight time averaging 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Travelers flying from Buffalo to Raleigh have the option to upgrade their flight. Leading airlines include Delta, which provides both first class and premium economy service, while American Airlines and United each offer first class seating.

Best time to fly from Buffalo (BUF) to Raleigh (RDU)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Buffalo to Raleigh are April, July, and October, when peak temperatures in Raleigh reach up to 79.9°F in July. If you prefer quieter travel, consider May, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 69.1°F. For better deals, October usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $131. Flight availability peaks in October, with approximately 28 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January has the fewest flights, with approximately 16 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: October usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $131, roughly 10% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • More budget-friendly months to fly: June, August, and September typically offer average one-way fares of around $135.
  • Most flight options: October has the highest number of flights from Buffalo to Raleigh, with approximately 28 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January41.5°F (5.3°C)Slightly Low16$161
February45.1°F (7.3°C)Average17$148
March51.4°F (10.8°C)Average21$161
April61.0°F (16.1°C)Slightly High23$176
May69.1°F (20.6°C)Slightly Low21$139
June76.6°F (24.8°C)Average21$133
July79.9°F (26.6°C)Slightly High22$138
August78.3°F (25.7°C)Average19$135
September73.0°F (22.8°C)Average25$137
October62.8°F (17.1°C)Slightly High28$131
November51.8°F (11.0°C)Average25$143
December46.0°F (7.8°C)Slightly Low22$155

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to find the best prices for flights from Buffalo (BUF) to Raleigh (RDU)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Buffalo to Raleigh is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are usually found when booking at least two months in advance, although most travelers book between two to eight weeks ahead. Evening departures (6 PM to 12 AM) tend to be less expensive, even though morning flights (5 AM to 12 PM) are more popular. Additionally, flying on Saturday often results in lower prices, while Thursday remains the most popular travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.*
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at Raleigh - Durham International Airport from Buffalo Niagara International Airport

Raleigh welcomes travelers from Buffalo with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Raleigh city center is approximately a 20-minute drive (covering about 15 miles) from Raleigh - Durham International Airport, depending on traffic. Here's how to reach Raleigh efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Raleigh, with private rides that can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from Raleigh - Durham International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at Raleigh - Durham International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From Raleigh-Durham International Airport, Cary Station, a train station, is located about 6 miles away, providing convenient access to regional rail services.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $95 and cheap return flights from $161 Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $109 and $547, and return flights often range between $232 and $912. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The cheapest month to fly from BUF to RDU is September when demand is low. Traveling in off-peak or shoulder months is usually a good way to secure cheap tickets, just remember to avoid flying during holidays if you're able to. Use the calendar view in your search to see which months have low fares on this route.
Which airlines fly direct from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
You can fly direct from BUF to RDU on Frontier Airlines, with around 7 flights per week.
How do I find cheap flights from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best airline to fly with from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The best airline to fly with from Buffalo, NY (BUF) to Raleigh, NC (RDU) will differ from traveler to traveler. If you like to fly early, Frontier Airlines offers early morning flights. If price is the most important factor, Frontier Airlines typically offers the lowest fares. American Airlines offers the most daily flights from BUF to RDU, which is great if flexibility is what you value most. The best carrier for this journey could also be the one you have a loyalty membership with, as flying with that airline or another airline within the same alliance could help you collect points or enjoy lounge access.
What is the best time to fly from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The best time to fly is usually mid-week (Tuesday or Wednesday) and during early morning hours as flights tend to be cheaper, less crowded, and generally more on-time. Avoid major holidays and peak vacation seasons for smoother travel. Combining off-peak days and hours often gives the best combination of cost, comfort, and convenience.
How many flights per day from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
On average, there are around 1 nonstop flights per day from Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF) to Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU). For more options, look at flights that include layovers.
What is the earliest flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF) to Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU) usually leaves at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. Catching this early flight can help you maximize your time in Raleigh. This service is seasonal and active in December. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Buffalo, NY (BUF) to Raleigh, NC (RDU) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. This accounts for around 31% of total traffic. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing is favored as it helps you make the most of your day in Raleigh.
How long does it take to fly from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
Flying nonstop from BUF to RDU takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, with the route covering approximately 488 miles. Flights with a layover typically take 2 hours 30 minutes longer than direct options. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
You can fly first class between BUF and RDU. First class cabins are available on:

  • American Airlines
  • Delta Air Lines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for Raleigh from Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF)?
If you're planning to travel to Raleigh from Buffalo Niagara Intl. (BUF), you can fly into Raleigh - Durham Intl. (RDU) Some flights may connect through major hubs like O'Hare Intl. (ORD), Liberty Intl. (EWR), Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) before reaching Raleigh. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) Raleigh Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.)?
If you booked your Buffalo, NY (BUF-Buffalo Niagara Intl.) to Raleigh, NC (RDU-Raleigh - Durham Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Buffalo Niagara Intl.
Destination airport
Raleigh - Durham Intl.
Roundtrip price
$160
Distance
487 mi
Average flight time
1 hour 46 mins

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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