Welcome toWilliam P. Hobby Airport

Houston’s two major airports just wrapped up a Spring Break travel period marked by record-setting passenger numbers, operational success and the debut of a new terminal space designed to ease the journey for millions of travelers.RELATED | Houston Airports ready for millions of travelers in first major travel rush of 2025Preliminary data provided by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) show that Sunday, March 9, was one of the busiest days on record at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), with TSA throughput ranking as the fourth-highest single-day total in airport history. The combined passenger count on March 9 across Bush and Hobby airports surpassed last year’s Spring Break peak by more than 1,100 originating and departing passengers.In total, more than 2.3 million travelers passed through Houston’s airports during the 12-day period from March 6 to March 17, reflecting a 6% increase at Bush Airport compared with the same period last year.The airport system’s aviation director credits careful planning and recent infrastructure investments with helping manage the growing demand. That includes the new Terminal E Ticketing Lobby at Bush Airport, which opened in February, ahead of the Spring Break rush. The expansive, modern facility offers passengers additional space, new technology and improved check-in efficiency during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.“These numbers not only highlight the growing demand for air travel in Houston but also the city's increasing appeal as a destination during key travel seasons,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “Our team worked around the clock to ensure a smooth and seamless experience for passengers, from curb to gate.”This year’s surge was driven by both outbound leisure travel and an influx of visitors headed to major events in the region, including the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Houston’s airports also serve as popular gateways for cruise passengers and travelers heading to the Texas Gulf Coast.While TSA throughput data captures only departing passengers who need to clear TSA screening, total passenger counts—including arriving and connecting passengers—will be finalized in mid-April when airlines submit their Spring Break enplanement figures.Even without the full data set, Szczesniak believes early signs point to continued momentum for Houston’s aviation footprint.“Hitting record throughput while maintaining our service standards is no small feat,” Szczesniak said. “It reflects the strength of Houston’s position as a global gateway and the dedication of our employees.”

At most airports, travelers rush past terminals with their eyes fixed on gate numbers and departure screens. But in Houston, a layover might just offer a brush with surreal whimsy.Now in its second year, a partnership between Houston Airports and the Orange Show Center for Visionary Art is transforming the airport experience with unexpected moments of creative delight. At George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), travelers are greeted not just by taxi queues or luggage carts but by gleaming, rhinestone-encrusted sedans and whimsical, winged roadsters. These are Art Cars—mobile masterpieces that reflect the city’s bold, imaginative spirit.Each season brings a new installation. At Bush Airport’s Terminal A ticketing lobby, visitors can now enjoy “Karmadillo” by artist Rebecca Bass. It’s an armadillo-inspired creation that blurs the line between sculpture and sedan. At Hobby Airport, “Fruitmobile” by artist Jackie Harris offers a playful burst of color and nostalgia.“These Art Cars instantly change the energy of a space,” said Alton DuLaney, curator of public art for Houston Airports. “Passengers stop in their tracks. Kids smile. People take photos and share them. That’s the power of public art—it connects people, even in a busy airport environment.”Each vehicle is a veteran of Houston’s world-famous Art Car Parade, the largest of its kind. By displaying these cars year-round, Houston Airports and the Orange Show invite visitors to engage with the city’s creative culture from the moment they arrive.“Whether you’re a traveler passing through or a loved one picking someone up, you’re greeted with art that’s uniquely Houston,” DuLaney said. “It’s a joyful, memorable experience—and a great introduction to our city.”In a time when many airports feel indistinguishable, Houston’s Art Cars offer a meaningful sense of place. They remind travelers that travel isn’t just about the destination—it’s also about the experience along the way. And in Houston, that experience begins with creativity, culture and a distinct celebration of the city’s artistic spirit.The Orange Show Center for Visionary Art will host the 38th annual Houston Art Car Parade and Festival April 10 thru April 13. The parade is scheduled for April 12 at 2 p.m.

For Houston travelers who are short on time but craving a change of scenery, a quick flight under 300 miles might be the perfect escape. Whether it’s a Texas weekend getaway or a last-minute Spring Break destination, flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) offer plenty of options that get you there in about an hour—or less.Under an Hour: The Quickest Flights from IAHThe shortest commercial flight out of Bush Airport takes just 54 minutes and covers 123 miles to Victoria, Texas. The South Texas city may not be a household name for travelers, but its historic charm and access to the Guadalupe River make it a hidden gem worth visiting.Nearby, Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a 60-minute flight away and offers an entirely different kind of escape—one that includes casino resorts, live music and Creole cuisine.For travelers looking to stay in Texas but get out of Houston, quick 60-minute flights to Austin or San Antonio make a weekend trip more convenient than ever. Skip the I-10 traffic and land in San Antonio’s River Walk district or hit the music scene in Austin with time to spare.Beyond Texas: Louisiana & the Gulf CoastIf a weekend of Cajun food and Southern hospitality sounds appealing, Lafayette, Baton Rouge and Shreveport, Louisiana, are all within a 1.5-hour flight from IAH.For a coastal escape, Corpus Christi is just a 60 flight away, offering easy access to Padre Island National Seashore—a prime spot for spring breakers or anyone seeking sun and sand.From Hobby Airport: The Fast Track to Texas DestinationsThe same quick access applies for travelers flying out of Hobby Airport. Flights to Austin, Corpus Christi, San Antonio and Dallas range from 55 to 103 minutes, giving travelers multiple options for a quick Texas getaway.And for those eyeing the southern tip of Texas, Harlingen offers a gateway to the Rio Grande Valley, South Padre Island and the Gulf Coast. The flight from Houston is one hour.Why Fly? The Case for Skipping the DriveThe debate over whether to fly or drive is common for destinations like Austin and San Antonio. But a 55-minute flight can shave hours off a road trip, especially when contending with traffic in Houston and Austin. This allows more time for exploring, dining or just relaxing.With flights to nine Texas cities and five Louisiana destinations--all under 300 miles--Houston’s airports provide a convenient launchpad for spontaneous weekend getaways and easy vacation escapes.The only question left? Where to next?