✈️ Flight Guide: Durham (RDU) → Fort Lauderdale (FLL)

December brings several notable events near both airports that affect travel demand. In Fort Lauderdale and nearby Miami, highlights include the Winterfest Boat Parade (Fort Lauderdale, mid-December) and Art Basel Miami Beach (early December), which increase hotel and flight demand. Raleigh and the Research Triangle host holiday parades, seasonal theater performances, and university events that can impact local departures from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU). If your December travel intersects with these events, expect elevated fares and heavier ground-transportation demand.

The best time to fly from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December is early in the month or midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) to avoid holiday surcharges and peak crowds. For the warmest beach weather in Fort Lauderdale, plan trips throughout December; early month trips often offer the best combination of lower fares and good temperatures. If you must travel during December 20–31, book at least 6–8 weeks in advance and aim for early morning flights to reduce delay risk.

Choosing nonstop vs connecting flights from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) depends on priorities. Nonstops are faster (~2h10m) and reduce missed-connection risk — ideal for holiday travel. Connecting flights, often through Charlotte (CLT) or Atlanta (ATL), can be significantly cheaper and offer more scheduling options, but add layover time and transfer risk. For December travel when delays and full flights are more common, weigh convenience and luggage transfer considerations. CTA: Compare nonstop RDU to FLL flights vs cheaper one-stop options to find the best holiday itinerary.

Major carriers operating or offering connections on the RDU–FLL corridor in December include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and low-cost carriers like Spirit. American often provides multiple daily nonstops via its regional network and competitive loyalty perks through AAdvantage; Delta connects reliably via ATL with solid on-time performance. JetBlue can offer a comfortable economy experience and seasonal nonstops, while Spirit typically has the lowest base fares but charges for extras like carry-ons and seat assignments. Compare total trip cost (fare + baggage + seat fees) and loyalty benefits when booking December travel between Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL).

December travel from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) benefits from advance planning: book early, choose midweek flights when possible, and prepay for baggage to skip lines. Prepare for beach-appropriate clothing in Fort Lauderdale but pack a light layer for cooler mornings and evenings. Monitor airline notifications for schedule changes and check-in 24 hours ahead. Use airport apps and sign up for text alerts for gate changes; consider TSA PreCheck for expedited screening at RDU during holiday peaks. Finally, secure accommodations and car rentals early, especially if attending local events or holiday festivities.

Nonstop flights from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) typically take about 2 hours and 10 minutes. In December, airlines often add capacity for holiday demand; expect several daily nonstops plus numerous one-stop options via hubs like Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL). Early morning and late evening flights can be less congested but check seasonal schedule shifts. For the most accurate flight times and gate information, verify with your airline 24 hours before departure.

Finding cheap flights between Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) in December requires flexibility and proactive search tactics. Use fare aggregators, set price alerts, and compare weekday vs weekend departures. Early December is often less expensive than peak holiday weeks. Consider connecting itineraries via Charlotte (CLT) or Atlanta (ATL) for lower costs, or check nearby airports if you can drive (e.g., Charlotte Douglas International for alternate routing). Sign up for airline newsletters and loyalty programs for flash sales, and book at least 3–8 weeks before peak holiday travel. CTA: Start a fare alert for cheap RDU to FLL flights today to capture December deals.

Tips

• Be flexible with travel dates — depart midweek for lower fares.
• Set fare alerts on multiple search engines to track price drops.
• Compare one-way fares and mixed-carrier itineraries for savings.
• Consider nearby airports only if ground transfer remains economical.