'Record after record after record' | Why 2024 is poised to be a record-shattering year for Houston's airports
In January, Houston Airports learned it welcomed a record-making 60.1 million passengers in 2023. Houston Airports had officially surpassed pre-pandemic passenger totals.
Then came March 2024 and a record-setting Spring Break.
Weeks later, Houston Airports welcomed unprecedented passenger totals for a record-setting Memorial Day, giving Houston a preview of what is anticipated to be the busiest summer on record for Houston Airports - 19 million passengers are moving through Bush and Hobby airports this summer. Record after record after record. Why?
The details are in the data. Houston Airports tracks data in a few ways:
TSA Daily Throughputs
Monthly Enplanement Totals
Total Passenger Traffic
Then, there's a commercial aviation industry term called 'upgauging' that's helping to drive up passenger demand.
Bush Airport: Expect busy airport this July 4 holiday
Houston Airports will welcome nearly two million travelers beginning June 27. Independence Day crowds are forecasted to be 8% bigger than passenger totals in 2023. READ MORE
Phase 2 of concessions construction begins at Hobby
Passengers can look forward to a variety of new restaurants opening at Hobby Airport this fall:
The Rustic: Renowned for its casual atmosphere and authentic Texan hospitality.
Throughgood Coffee: Coffee aficionados will find haven in artisanal brews and fresh pastries.
Chick-fil-A: Passengers can satisfy their cravings for classic chicken sandwiches and waffle fries.
Pei Wei: This addition brings a delectable selection of Asian-inspired dishes to the airport.
Starbucks (x2): Dual Starbucks locations, conveniently situated on either side of TSA security, ensure easy access to coffee and snacks before or during flights. Both locations will offer mobile ordering for added convenience.
TRAFFIC ALERT
Houston Airports hires more staff to keep traffic moving during Copa America, July 4 holiday
Houston Airports urges travelers to anticipate traffic at Bush Airport throughout the summer, beginning Independence Day weekend.
Record passengers, more than 60 additional summer flights and construction at two of the five terminals are all contributing factors to traffic on the roads at Bush Airport. This continued increase in demand is a positive sign for Houston's economy and challenges Houston Airports to mitigate traffic in new ways. READ MORE
As part of this collaboration, Wisk will partner with Houston Airports to identify and assess potential locations for the development of vertiport infrastructure for self-flying taxis Bush, Hobby and Ellington airports. LEARN MORE
Hobby Airport welcomes Avelo Airlines
The Houston-based carrier takes off from Hobby Airport with H-Town’s only nonstop service to Connecticut via Tweed-New Haven Airport twice a week - Monday and Friday - on Boeing 737 aircraft. LEARN MORE
PARTNERSHIPS
Houston Airports and Houston Fire Department working together to protect passengers at IAH
Houston Airports invested $4.6 million in four new, state-of-the-art Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) trucks for the Houston Fire Department. The trucks, which replace a fleet purchased in 2006, come in equipped with synthetic fluorine-free foam which extinguishes fires while minimizing environmental impact. READ MORE
WEATHER
How Houston Airports prepares to keep airports running during Hurricane Season
National Hurricane Season is a six-month period that runs through November 30 when tropical weather systems are most likely to form in the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and Gulf of Mexico. These storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, and storm surges, causing significant damage to infrastructure and disrupting travel.
“Once a storm is in the Gulf of Mexico and appears to be heading in our direction, we activate our hurricane plan and begin working through our checklist,” said Szczesniak. The process usually starts five days, or 120 hours, before the storm is expected to make landfall. Airlines will then also begin flying out as many aircraft as possible. Life safety is the top priority for Houston Airports, then property protection.
Storms can impact an airport just like weather can delay an outdoor sporting event. When severe weather, like lightning, is detected around Bush Airport or Hobby Airport, personnel working outside must seek shelter indoors until the lightning threat has passed. LEARN MORE
TECHNOLOGY
Houston Airports leverages self-service technology for better experience
“Self-service technology offers a range of benefits for Houston Airports and our passengers, but there are also challenges to consider,” said Rambo. “Not all passengers are comfortable using self-service technology due to a lack of familiarity with the kiosks, language barriers or concerns about using technology.” READ MORE
'Credit card only' | Houston Airports rolls out cashless parking system
The new system utilizes License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, allowing seamless entry and exit without stopping for cash payment. Additionally, near-Field Communication (NFC) capabilities enable contactless payment through digital wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, further streamlining the payment process. READ MORE
Houston Airports is celebrating a significant milestone in constructing the new international terminal at Bush Airport. Crews poured the first layer of concrete for the new 11-lane International Departures Curb.
First comes the paint, then come the planes!
Fresh paint on the airport apron! Crews have started painting the markings on the IAH Terminal D-West Pier ramp, which are essential for safe airport operations.
The next phase of the new international terminal will officially take flight later this summer! WATCH THE VIDEO BELOW!
CONSTRUCTION
United Airlines makes strides in $2.55 billion Terminal B Transformation at Bush Airport
United Airlines is transforming the original IAH Terminal B - which opened in June 1969 - into a modern and efficient facility designed to improve the passenger experience. The project includes constructing new concourses, expanded capacity and upgraded amenities. However, the significant construction necessitates temporary changes to passenger flow. READ MORE
HISTORY
A look back: Celebrating 55 years of Bush Airport
The airport, which opened in June 1969 as man was preparing to land on the moon, has helped to expand Houston’s global reach and has supported the City’s growth. READ MORE
AIRPORT HEROES
Houston Airports Customer Service Representatives: The calm in the storm for passengers
Traveling can be a stressful experience, filled with unfamiliar surroundings, tight connections and even language barriers. At Houston Airports, a dedicated team of Customer Service Representatives stands ready to navigate passengers through any challenge.
Farah Abdullahi, a Customer Service Representative at IAH, recently exemplified the team's dedication and resourcefulness. When a passenger requiring ADA assistance missed their connecting flight, Abdullahi stepped up to ensure a seamless resolution. READ MORE
Connect with George Bush Intercontinental Airport
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
Houston Airports Ambassadors shine at Points of Light Conference
Points of Light encourages and empowers individuals to make a positive impact in their communities. This year's conference, held in Houston, was especially significant as it coincided with President George H.W. Bush's centennial birthday on June 12 and the city where the airport named after him, Bush Airport, is located. READ MORE
