New flights, concessions and updates to TSA welcome millions this summer.
Houston Airports projects that 19.5 million people will fly through IAH or HOU from Memorial Day to Labor Day—an increase of more than 250,000 passengers over 2024.
“Air travel drives jobs, business and tourism—and this summer, Houston Airports is powering that growth,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “From streamlined security to a smarter website to new flights and fresh amenities, we’re delivering improvements that support Mayor Whitmire’s call for a more user-friendly Houston. These upgrades aren’t just about moving people—they’re about moving our economy forward.”
Beginning May 14, roadway access around IAH Terminal B will shift due to scheduled utility work as part of the Terminal B Transformation Program.
Anyone needing to access Terminal A will loop around the Marriott, travel down South Terminal Road, and then proceed back up to North Terminal Road. This traffic flow will be in place through August 2025.KEEP READING
IN DEPTH
How smart upgrades are reshaping the future of IAH
With record-breaking spring travel, Houston Airports is reaping the benefits of bold infrastructure investments.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is in a state of transformation—quietly trading orange cones for bold progress.
Since Mayor John Whitmire Jim Szczesniak to serve as aviation director, Szczesniak has focused on fine-tuning a more user-friendly, passenger-first experience at Houston’s airports—an approach that appears to be paying off. Szczesniak has tasked Houston Airports with collecting data, including airport drive times, TSA wait times and the temperature of each terminal. The data is driving meaningful and measurable change. KEEP READING
AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION
All aboard: METRO’s IAH Downtown Direct gains immediate traction
Houston’s new Route 500 connects travelers and boosts airport accessibility—with praise from passengers.
“When Houston is bidding to host conventions, trade shows or major sports events, access to public transportation is always a key question,” said Houston Airports Aviation Director Jim Szczesniak. “Now we have a stronger answer. This new route adds another win to Houston’s economic toolkit.” KEEP READING
AIR SERVICE
From the plains to the runway: Salina, Kansas connects to Houston and now the world
A small Kansas airport just landed a big win — and its daily flight to Houston proves Space City is more than a connection point.
Part of a federal program designed to ensure small communities stay connected to the national air network, EAS airports like Salina receive subsidized flights to larger hubs, and this new route opens the door to a world of possibility. READ MORE
Allegiant begins service between HOU, Gulf Shores
On May 22, Allegiant began service from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF) in Alabama. The new flights will operate up to twice weekly. KEEP READING
PREPARING FOR 2026
Houston connects fans to every 2026 host city
The biggest sporting event on the planet is less than 400 days away, and Houston is already helping soccer fans chart their course.
The 2026 tournament is set to become the largest in history—spanning three countries, 16 cities and more than 100 matches. With millions of fans expected to attend and billions watching worldwide, air travel and accommodations will be in unprecedented demand.
The countdown is on.
Houston Airports just launched a new interactive map, making it easier than ever for soccer fans to find nonstop flights to all 16 host cities across North America. KEEP READING
Simulated Chaos, Real Stakes: Inside the emergency drill at IAH
There was no real smoke. No flames to extinguish. But the stakes were still sky-high.
At precisely 9:31 a.m. on a quiet Saturday morning, Bush Airport transformed into the scene of a simulated aircraft emergency—a full-scale exercise mandated by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) designed to test how the airport and its partners would respond to a crisis no one ever hopes to face. KEEP READING
PARTNERSHIPS
Ellington Airport plays critical role in statewide aviation rescue exercise
Ellington Airport (EFD) served as a vital operations hub during a large-scale aviation search and rescue exercise (SAREX) on May 21. The exercise, led by Texas A&M Task Force 1, brought together dozens of state, federal and military agencies to simulate real-time rescue efforts following a natural disaster. KEEP READING
ARTS
The Art of Artemis touches down at Bush Airport
A new NASA exhibit is turning heads near Gate E10 at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)—and it’s doing more than just showcasing space boots and lunar dreams. It’s reclaiming Houston’s title as the launchpad of imagination. KEEP READING
AIRPORT INSIDER
Access to air travel should be for everyone. WATCH how Wings for All gives people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to experience an airport well before they fly.
NOW OPEN
Hip & Humble opens inside IAH Terminal D
ip & Humble, a women-owned boutique known for its playful fashion and curated gifts, is now open inside Terminal D at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)—just in time for Mother’s Day and the start of the 2025 summer travel season. READ MORE
AIRPORT HEROES
The midnight crew that keeps Houston’s airports moving
While Houston sleeps, they work.
Quietly, efficiently and without fanfare, hundreds of third-shift employees clock in each night at IAH and HOU to ensure our airports are ready for the next day’s travelers. KEEP READING
ONE MORE READ
Houston Airports wins Telly Awards for storytelling
Houston Airports earned three top honors at the 46th annual Telly Awards, a prestigious global competition recognizing excellence in video and television across all screens. KEEP READING
