One passenger fare
Book shared transportation per passenger instead of arranging a private transfer.
ILM ↔ RDU airport connection
ILM to RDU shuttle
We’re exploring a reliable airport shuttle between the Wilmington and ILM area and RDU, with individual seats and room for luggage.
Shape the first schedule
Put your trip on the map.
Join in about 60 seconds, then optionally tell us the days, times, destination, passenger count, and $75 booking intent that fit your travel.
What we’re planning
How this route would work
Demand-led stops
Your likely flight days and preferred departure windows will help determine whether early-morning, daytime, or evening airport runs launch first.
Useful travel patterns
The route is intended for travelers connecting to more flight options at RDU, returning to the Cape Fear region, or avoiding airport parking and a rental car.
Preliminary route plan
The practical details we’re testing
- Proposed fare
- $75 one way, per seat
- Estimated travel time
- About 2 hours, depending on traffic and the Wilmington pickup
- Pickup plan
- Preliminary: central Wilmington and/or the ILM area to designated RDU terminal pickup and drop-off zones
These are planning estimates, not a published schedule or booking offer. Founding-rider responses will determine the first times and stops.
A simpler cost decision
Why take the shuttle?
Compare the whole travel day—not only the price at the pump. Actual driving, rental, private-ride, and parking costs vary by trip.
Drive yourself
Fuel + parking + wear
Pay for the round-trip drive, leave your car at the airport, and spend the travel time behind the wheel. Parking at RDU can cost $18-34 per day.
Rental car
$80–$150 one way
One-way availability, mileage, taxes, and fees vary. You’ll also need to allow extra time at both ends to pick up the car, complete paperwork, refuel, and return it.
Private ride
Typically $300+
A private transfer can take you door to door on your schedule, but the convenience usually comes at a much higher one-way price.
Cape Fear Regional Express
$75
proposed one-way fare · per seat
One individual seat, one planned fare, luggage space, and no need to leave your car at RDU. Round trip discounts will be available.
$75 is estimated launch pricing for the planned Wilmington–RDU route. Final fares, fees, stops, and schedules will be confirmed before reservations open.
Built in Wilmington
A local idea for a trip our community already makes.
Cape Fear Regional Express is a Wilmington-built idea inspired by how hard it can be to get between the coast and RDU. We’re exploring a simpler, more predictable shared ride—and being transparent while we determine whether enough riders need it.
Ask us a question · hello@capefearregionalexpress.comFrequently asked questions
What we know so far
Will the shuttle pick up at ILM Airport?
An ILM-area pickup is part of the early route plan, but final stops have not been selected. Rider responses will help determine the most useful Wilmington pickup points.
Will the shuttle go directly to RDU Airport?
RDU Airport is a planned Triangle-area destination. Exact terminals, stops, and schedules will be published before bookings open.
Can I bring luggage?
The planned passenger vehicles will include luggage space. Final baggage allowances will be shared when reservations open.
What is the proposed one-way fare?
The current planning estimate is $75 per passenger, one way. Final fares, fees, stops, and schedules will be confirmed before bookings open.