Cargo

Cargo Excellence

Houston's airports position the City of Houston as the international passenger and cargo gateway to the south-central United States and a primary gateway to Latin America. Houston Airports served more than 63.1 million passengers and handled over 552,330 metric tons of air cargo in 2024. Thanks to our partner airlines, together, we foster economic vitality for the transportation industry and facilitate a strong level of global connectivity for the diverse and growing population living in the greater Houston region.

Facilities

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) specializes in the handling of machinery and equipment for the energy, aerospace, and construction sectors. With its parking for 20-widebody aircraft, IAH is a leader managing large-and-heavy machinery.

IAH offers two cargo centers: Central Cargo, and IAH Cargo Center (East Cargo) with state-of-the-art facilities in 120 acres and parking for 20 widebody aircraft. The two air cargo centers at IAH serve 14 scheduled cargo carriers, several passenger airlines moving belly freight, and charter cargo airlines operating for several different industries.

Multiple charter airlines frequently utilize IAH for one-time operations mostly for the energy sector.

IAH offers customers a perishable goods handling facility next to the tarmac, operated by Dnata, and an on-airport state-of-the-art Fumigation Facility with the latest technology. The perishables facility includes two refrigerated chambers and handles in-transit perishable freight for many carriers. Dnata works with grocery chains and distributors in the region to process a wide variety of perishable products.

IAH also offers a Federal Inspection Services One-stop shop to expedite clearance services.

In addition to these scheduled all-cargo carriers, over 21 passenger airlines and a dozen cargo charter carriers also provide air cargo services to the Houston community.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): A Global Hub for Air Cargo and Freight Services

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is a strategic hub for diversified air cargo shipping in industries such as energy, aerospace, advanced manufacturing, medical, construction, consumer goods, and perishables. In 2024 alone, IAH moved over 552,300 metric tons of air cargo, making it the cargo gateway to the South-Central United States. As the “Energy Capital of the World” and a global leader in oil and gas shipping, Houston is also recognized as “Space City” for its aerospace excellence. These industries rely heavily on efficient freight services and reliable supply chain solutions. IAH plays a critical role in supporting time sensitive shipments and continues to enhance the air cargo shipping experience for airlines, ground handlers, and freight forwarders and shippers.

Diverse Cargo Capabilities IAH manages a wide range of air cargo needs. From oversized energy and aerospace equipment requiring specialized handling, to delicate perishables and medical supplies, our dedicated teams ensure safe and efficient transport. IAH fosters open communication with all stakeholders engaging in one-on-one discussions with airlines and cargo handlers. This approach ensures we stay abreast of evolving industry requirements and tailor our services accordingly.

Houston’s Manufacturing and Export Strength Houston ranks as the second-largest U.S. metropolitan area for manufacturing GDP. The industrial cargo, chemicals, machinery, equipment and tools shipped by the airlines are manufactured in our city, so multiple air cargo shippers call Houston home. With robust production capacity, Houston supports strong demand for long-haul air cargo shipping cost efficiency. In 2024, Houston recorded $249.8 billion in exports across all transportation modes – proof of the city’s unmatched global reach.

As a world-class manufacturing hub for oil/gas, medical, and engineering sectors, Houston continues to generate opportunities for cargo operations and advanced logistics. The global cargo community recognizes Houston as a reliable partner in the supply chain, offering both inbound materials and outbound finished products.

Specialized Cargo Infrastructure at IAH IAH is a recognized leader in handling oversized and heavy machinery for industries worldwide. To meet these demands, the airport operates two strategically located cargo centers:

• Central Cargo • IAH Cargo Center (East Cargo)

The IAH Cargo Center spans 120 acres, providing parking for 20 widebody aircraft and hosting a One-Stop Shop Federal Inspection Services (FIS) facility to expedite clearance for international cargo shipments.

To accommodate specialized and time sensitive cargo, the facility includes:

• A perishable goods handling center with refrigerated chambers, supporting both belly-freight and all-cargo carriers. • A state-of-the-art fumigation facility with advanced chambers, reducing delays and simplifying logistics.

These features ensure temperature-sensitive goods and other high-value shipments move seamlessly.

Connecting the World Through Cargo Innovation At IAH, we go beyond traditional cargo services by continuously adapting to industry needs. Our goal is to provide worldwide connectivity with efficiency and transparency