Houston Airports ready for 2.2 million Spring Break travelers

Mar 2, 2026

Open terminals, new amenities and easier parking reservations set the stage for travel March 5–16

HOUSTON — Houston Airports is preparing to welcome approximately 2.2 million travelers during the 2026 Spring Break travel period from March 5 through March 16, a 3% increase over last year.

This marks the first Spring Break at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with the new International Terminal fully open. Travelers can expect smoother circulation from curb to gate and recently completed upgrades across key areas of the airport.

Passenger projections on the busiest travel days include:

• Friday, March 6 - 184,000 passengers, the peak day for departures
• Sunday, March 8 – 185,000 passengers projected
• Thursday, March 12 – 185,000 passengers projected
• Sunday, March 15 – 184,000 passengers projected, the peak day for arrivals

The travel period coincides with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, the World Baseball Classic and expanded cruise departures from Galveston, drawing visitors from around the world.

“We’re ready,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “For the first time in years, travelers at Bush Airport will move through Terminal E without construction detours or severe traffic delays. Combined with new restrooms and expanded concessions, we’re focused on getting every trip off on the right foot.”

Catching an international flight at IAH? Select airlines have relocated check-in operations from Terminal D to Terminal E. Updated signage and customer service representatives are available throughout the terminals to assist.

MORE DETAILS | Select airlines move from Terminal D to E

Passengers may enjoy renovated restrooms and expanded retail and dining options at IAH and HOU.

Parking just got more flexible. Travelers can book parking as little as two hours before arrival at either airport at fly2houston.com/parking. Previously, reservations had to be made at least 12 hours in advance.

Advice for a smooth Spring Break

• Arrive early.

More people will be flying. You'll need more time to park, check in and get through TSA. Due to the government shutdown, passengers may experience longer-than-normal TSA wait times.

• Monitor real-time TSA wait times online at fly2houston.com
• Reserve parking online at fly2houston.com/parking. This is one of the busiest travel times of the year.

Reserve parking early.

• Use designated cell phone lots when waiting to pick up passengers. Our curbs are for active loading/unloading only.