Key Highlights
Here’s a quick look at what you need to know about flying in and out of Houston:
- Houston has two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
- IAH is the larger airport, serving as a major hub for international and domestic travel.
- Hobby (HOU) is a smaller airport primarily focused on domestic flights, located closer to downtown.
- Both airports offer a wide range of amenities, including dining, shopping, and Wi-Fi.
- Choosing between IAH and Hobby depends on your airline, destination, and travel preferences.
Overview of Houston’s Airports
When flying to Houston, you’ll likely arrive at one of two main airports. The Houston Airport System manages both George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), making it the fourth-largest multi-airport system in the United States. Together, these airports serve millions of passengers each year, connecting the city to destinations across the globe.
Each airport serves a different primary purpose. George Bush Intercontinental Airport is the city’s main gateway for international flights, while Hobby Airport predominantly handles domestic traffic. Understanding their differences is key to planning a smooth journey through Houston.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is Houston’s largest airport and a major hub for United Airlines. Located approximately 23 miles north of downtown, IAH is one of the busiest airports in the United States for total passenger traffic, handling over 46 million travelers in 2023. It serves a vast network of domestic and international destinations across five continents.
The airport features five terminals, with Terminal D and Terminal E dedicated to international flights and arrivals. This setup allows IAH to efficiently process travelers from all over the world. Its original name was Houston Intercontinental Airport, a nod to its global reach, which it continues to expand.
With its impressive size and passenger volume, Bush Intercontinental Airport is equipped with numerous amenities, including award-winning dining, extensive retail options, and comfortable lounges. Its comprehensive services ensure a pleasant experience whether you are starting your journey, ending it, or just passing through.
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is Houston’s original commercial airport and offers a more compact, manageable travel experience. Located just seven miles south of downtown Houston, it’s a convenient option for those heading to the city center. Hobby is a major focus city for Southwest Airlines and primarily serves domestic destinations.
While smaller than IAH, Hobby Airport has seen significant growth, serving over 14 million travelers in recent years. It features a single, modern terminal with nonstop service to more than 60 destinations throughout the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean, making it a key player in regional travel.
Acquired by the City of Houston in 1937, HOU provides travelers with essential amenities like Wi-Fi, various dining spots, and retail stores. Its smaller scale and proximity to the city make it a favorite for many domestic travelers looking for efficiency and convenience.
Deciding Between IAH and HOU: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between IAH and HOU often comes down to your travel needs. Your airline and destination are the biggest factors, as many carriers operate exclusively out of one airport. With significantly higher passenger numbers, IAH offers more international flights, while HOU is a strong choice for domestic routes, especially if you’re flying Southwest.
Consider your final destination within Houston as well. HOU’s proximity to downtown can be a major advantage, potentially saving you time and transportation costs. This guide will help you explore the specific strengths of each airport.
Best Airport for International Travelers
For international travel, George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is the clear choice. As Houston’s primary international gateway, it offers an extensive network of flights connecting to destinations across the globe. IAH is where you’ll find most major international carriers, providing a wide array of options for your overseas journey.
The airport has a long history of international service, with airlines like Air France and KLM having operated flights for decades. Today, you can fly directly to locations like the United Kingdom on carriers such as British Airways, which operates double-daily flights to London’s Heathrow Airport.
Bush Intercontinental is designed to handle a high volume of global passengers, with dedicated terminals and facilities for international arrivals and departures. If your travel plans take you beyond the borders of the United States, IAH is almost always the best and only option out of Houston.
Domestic Travel and Convenience Factors
If you’re flying within the United States, William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) often offers greater convenience. Its location, just seven miles from downtown Houston, means shorter and often cheaper rides to the city center. This makes it an ideal choice for business travelers or tourists looking to get their vacation started quickly.
Hobby Airport is a major base for Southwest Airlines, one of the largest domestic carriers in the country. You’ll also find other popular airlines operating from HOU, including Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, providing a solid network of routes for domestic travel.
While IAH also has a robust domestic flight schedule, many travelers prefer HOU for its smaller size and ease of navigation. With fewer terminals and crowds, you can often get from the curb to your gate faster, reducing the overall stress of travel.
Layout and Terminal Maps at Houston Airports
Navigating an airport is much easier when you have a basic understanding of its layout. Houston’s airports are designed differently to suit their primary functions. IAH is a large, multi-terminal complex, while HOU features a more streamlined, single-terminal design.
At IAH, five terminals (A, B, C, D, and E) are connected by an automated Skyway train, making transfers between flights simple. HOU’s centralized layout means everything from check-in to the baggage claim area is under one roof. Let’s look at each airport’s layout in more detail.
IAH Terminal Overview and Navigation
George Bush Intercontinental Airport consists of five terminals connected by the above-ground Skyway and underground Subway train. This makes moving between terminals for connecting flights straightforward. To find your baggage, head to the arrivals level of your terminal.
Each terminal at Bush Intercontinental primarily serves different airlines and types of flights. Terminal A is used by non-United domestic carriers, while Terminal B is dedicated to United Express flights. Terminal C is the main hub for United’s domestic operations. For international travel, Terminal D handles non-United international flights, and Terminal E is used for United’s international flights and arrivals.
Here is a simple breakdown of the terminals and their primary functions at IAH:
| Terminal | Primary Use |
|---|---|
| Terminal A | Non-United domestic flights |
| Terminal B | United Express flights |
| Terminal C | United domestic flights |
| Terminal D | Non-United international flights |
| Terminal E | United international flights |
HOU Terminal Overview and Wayfinding Tips
Navigating William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is exceptionally easy due to its single-terminal design. All airlines, check-in counters, security checkpoints, and gates are located within one main building, which significantly simplifies the travel process for passengers. You won’t have to worry about catching a train to another part of the airport.
After you deplane, follow the signs to the lower level to reach the baggage claim area. All baggage carousels are located in this centralized hall, making it simple to retrieve your luggage. This area is also where you’ll find access to ground transportation options, including taxis, ride-shares, and shuttles.
The straightforward layout of HOU is one of its biggest advantages. With clear signage and everything located in a single, well-organized space, finding your way around is intuitive. Whether you’re arriving, departing, or connecting, the compact nature of Hobby Airport helps ensure a smooth and efficient experience.
Transportation Options to and from Houston Airports
Once you land in Houston, you’ll have several options for getting to your final destination. Both airports offer a variety of ground transportation choices, including rental cars, taxis, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, and public transit. These services can take you to key areas like Downtown Houston, the Texas Medical Center, or even farther destinations like Galveston.
The best option for you will depend on your budget, destination, and personal preference. Whether you need a quick ride downtown or a shuttle to a nearby hotel, Houston’s airports provide plenty of ways to continue your journey.
Getting to IAH and HOU from Downtown Houston
The distance from Downtown Houston is a major difference between the two airports. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is conveniently located just seven miles south of the city center, making for a relatively short and inexpensive trip. In light traffic, you can expect the drive to take around 20-30 minutes.
On the other hand, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is situated about 23 miles north of downtown. The drive to or from IAH typically takes 35-50 minutes but can be longer during peak traffic hours. Several major highways, including I-69/US-59, I-45, and the Hardy Toll Road, provide direct access to the airport.
When planning your trip to either airport from the City of Houston, always allow extra time for potential traffic, especially during morning and evening rush hours. The difference in miles can significantly impact your travel time and transportation costs.
Shuttles, Ride Shares, and Public Transit Choices
Beyond driving yourself, you have plenty of choices for getting around. Both IAH and HOU are served by a wide range of transportation providers, giving you flexibility based on your budget and needs. Ride shares are a popular and convenient option, with designated pickup areas at both airports.
Public transit is the most economical choice. The METRO bus system connects both airports to the downtown area and other parts of the city. For a more direct route, many travelers opt for shuttles, which can take you to hotels or other key destinations.
Here are some of the most common transportation options:
- Ride Shares: Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at designated zones.
- Public Transit: METRO offers bus routes from both airports, such as the 102 Bush IAH Express from IAH.
- Shuttles: Shared-ride and private shuttles offer service to hotels, business districts, and nearby cities.
- Taxis: Cabs are available at taxi stands outside the baggage claim areas of both airports.
Amenities and Services for Passengers
Modern airports are more than just transportation hubs; they’re equipped with amenities to make your travel experience comfortable and enjoyable. Houston’s airports offer a wide array of services, from diverse dining and shopping options to comfortable lounges where you can relax before your flight.
You’ll also find practical services like free Wi-Fi, currency exchange booths, and efficient baggage systems. Both airports prioritize passenger comfort and have robust security measures in place to ensure your safety. Let’s explore the specific offerings at IAH and HOU.
Dining, Shopping, and Lounges at IAH
George Bush Intercontinental Airport is known for its world-class amenities, especially its award-winning dining and retail options. With over 50 food and beverage outlets, you can find everything from a quick coffee to a sit-down meal from renowned chefs. The airport feels like a mega-mall, offering plenty of shopping to pass the time during a layover.
As a major hub for United Airlines, IAH features several United Club lounges where eligible travelers can work or relax in a quiet environment. In addition to airline-specific lounges, other premium spaces provide comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, and business services.
Here are a few popular dining spots you can find at IAH:
- Hugo’s Cocina (Terminal D): Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine.
- Yume (Terminal E): A great spot for sushi and other Asian dishes.
- Pala (Terminal C): Offers pizza and other Italian favorites.
- El Real (Terminal B): Serves up delicious Tex-Mex.
Facilities, Parking, and Special Services at HOU
William P. Hobby Airport may be smaller, but it doesn’t fall short on essential facilities and services. The airport provides free Wi-Fi throughout its terminal, allowing you to stay connected while you wait. With more than 15 food and beverage outlets, you’ll have plenty of choices for a meal or a quick snack.
Hobby Airport offers several parking options, including garages and surface lots, to accommodate both short-term and long-term stays. For travelers with specific needs, HOU provides a range of special services, including ADA amenities and visitor information centers to assist with any questions you may have.
The airport is also recognized for its cleanliness and friendly staff, contributing to a pleasant and stress-free travel environment. These well-maintained facilities and thoughtful services make flying through HOU a convenient and comfortable experience for everyone visiting Houston.
Airlines, Flights, and Destinations from Houston Airports
Combined, Houston’s airports serve over 180 destinations worldwide, thanks to the numerous airlines that operate there. Major carriers like United Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest have a strong presence, alongside many international airlines such as Air Canada and British Airways.
Whether you’re planning a domestic weekend getaway or an international adventure, you can likely find a direct flight from Houston. The next sections will break down which major airlines operate out of each airport and where you can find the most current flight information.
Major Airlines Operating at IAH and HOU
The airlines operating at each Houston airport are distinct, which will likely influence your choice. George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is a massive hub for United Airlines, which operates thousands of weekly flights from there. It is also the primary Houston airport for most international carriers, including Air Canada, Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, and Emirates.
William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is a major operating base for Southwest Airlines, which dominates the flight schedule with routes across the U.S. and to nearby international destinations. You will also find other key domestic carriers at HOU.
Airlines like Delta Air Lines and American Airlines offer services from both IAH and HOU, giving you some flexibility depending on your destination. Always check which airport your preferred airline uses when booking your ticket.
Where to Find Updated Flight Information and Airport Announcements
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, the official Houston Airport System website, fly2houston.com, is your best resource. This website serves both IAH and HOU and provides real-time updates on flight arrivals and departures, gate changes, and security wait times. It’s an essential tool for planning your trip to the airport.
The website also features an interactive wayfinding tool that gives you turn-by-turn directions within the terminals, helping you find your gate, a restaurant, or a restroom. You can access this feature on your phone without downloading an app. This is particularly useful at a large airport like IAH.
In addition to flight status, the fly2houston.com site offers information on parking availability, ground transportation, and airport amenities. You can also find data on total passenger traffic and other airport statistics. Checking the site before you leave for the airport can save you time and prevent surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a USO lounge at George Bush Intercontinental Airport?
Yes, George Bush Intercontinental Airport has a USO lounge for military members and their families. Located in Terminal D, near gate D8, this lounge provides a comfortable space to relax, enjoy complimentary amenities, and get assistance with travel needs. It’s a wonderful resource for service members traveling through Houston.
How do I find job opportunities at Houston airports?
To find job opportunities, you should visit the official careers page for the Houston Airport System or the City of Houston’s employment website. These sites list open positions for various roles within the airport, from operations and administration to customer service, with airlines, vendors, and government agencies.
What are travelers saying about Houston’s airports?
Travelers often praise George Bush Intercontinental Airport for its excellent dining and retail options, cleanliness, and helpful staff. Hobby Airport is frequently commended for its convenience, smaller size, and easy navigation. Both airports are highly regarded, making Houston the only city in the Western Hemisphere with two four-star Skytrax rated airports.