Houston expands its reach as primary gateway to Central America
Frontier joins growing list of airlines linking Houston with Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras.
Aug 27, 2025
Houston has long been called the gateway to Latin America. In 2024, 5 million passengers flew between Houston and Mexico, an increase of 3% from 2023. An additional 3.6 million people flew between Houston and Central or South America, up 9% from 2023.
In August 2025, Frontier Airlines is doubling down on that momentum by announcing three new nonstop routes from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Guatemala City, Guatemala, San Salvador, El Salvador and San Pedro Sula, Honduras beginning this December.
The ultra-low-fare carrier joins an already competitive field. United, Avianca, Spirit and Volaris El Salvador also serve Houston with nonstop flights across Central America. Together, they offer passengers a growing menu of choices—affordable options for families traveling to see loved ones, reliable service for business travelers and new opportunities for tourists eager to explore the region.
Why Central America?
For Houston travelers, Central America is close, affordable and rich with experiences. El Salvador is fast emerging as a destination for eco-tourism and world-class surfing along La Libertad’s Pacific coast. Guatemala offers vibrant Mayan culture, colonial cities like Antigua and breathtaking landscapes framed by volcanoes. Honduras boasts the coral reefs of Roatán and the cultural energy of San Pedro Sula. Each destination offers something distinct—yet all are only about a 3-hour flight from Houston. This means travelers can leave Houston in the morning and eat pupusas in San Salvador or explore the ruins of Tikal by lunch.
Why Houston?
For Central Americans, Houston represents family, opportunity and cultural connection. The city is home to one of the largest Salvadoran communities in the U.S. and vibrant Guatemalan and Honduran populations. Houston’s Central American restaurants, community centers and consulates make the city feel like a second home. Pair that with Houston’s reputation as one of the most diverse cities in America—with award-winning restaurants, world-class sports, NASA and the arts—and it’s clear why Houston is a magnet for visitors from the region.
A growing network
With Frontier’s announcement, Houston strengthened its position as one of the most connected cities in Central America. Houston offers Central American visitors a seamless gateway to the rest of the U.S. and beyond.
As Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle said, “We want to ensure consumers in those markets continue to have affordable flight options.”
For Houston Airports, that means more connections, choices and opportunities for passengers to experience the cultures, businesses and economies that connect the Americas.
