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Houston’s connectivity to Mexico just got stronger—and soccer fans are among the big winners.On April 3, Volaris inaugurated nonstop service between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and General Mariano Escobedo International Airport (MTY) in Monterrey, Mexico, expanding its international offerings from Houston’s largest airport. The new route marks a milestone not only for the airline but also for travelers across the region who are seeking more competitive, convenient options to key destinations in Mexico.The new flight launches more than a year before Houston and Monterrey host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the addition of this route, Houston now offers nonstop service to all North American host cities for the tournament, including destinations in the United States, Mexico and Canada.“This is a big win for our passengers—and for soccer fans planning their World Cup journeys,” said Kelly Woodward, chief operating officer for Houston Airports. “The new Monterrey route not only expands options for travelers—it reinforces Houston’s role as a global hub where access, opportunity and community all connect. With Volaris increasing its presence here, we’re proud to offer more flights, more convenience and more ways to experience the world.”Volaris will operate twice-daily service to MTY from IAH, growing its commitment to the Houston market. Since launching service at Bush Airport in 2015, the airline has steadily expanded its network. It currently offers seven weekly flights to Mexico City, seven to Guadalajara and four weekly flights to San Salvador, El Salvador through its affiliate Volaris El Salvador.The Monterrey route is only the beginning of this year’s growth. Volaris also announced two additional routes to Mexico launching July 5, 2025: three-times-weekly service to Morelia and San Luis Potosí.Houston has long been a leader in connectivity to Mexico. Since 2014, passenger traffic between the two has grown by nearly 75% with 5.1 million travelers flying between Houston and Mexico in 2024. Houston Airports offers nonstop flights to 24 Mexican destinations. With these additions, Volaris now serves four of Houston’s top eight international markets, offering travelers more choice and price flexibility while fostering cross-border travel for families, businesses and leisure alike.During a morning celebration at the newly expanded Terminal D, Woodward was among the Houston Airports employees who welcomed the inaugural flight with a ribbon-cutting ceremony alongside Volaris representatives, the Consulate General of Mexico and members of Houston First.“Whether you’re traveling for fútbol or family, we’re committed to making Houston the easiest choice,” Woodward said.

Every Friday morning, high school senior David Burca steps into George Bush Intercontinental Airport with one mission: to help.“My name is David Burca, and I’m a Volunteer Ambassador at George Bush Intercontinental Airport,” David said. “I started this journey in October 2024, and it’s been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”David is a senior at Guy M. Sconzo Early College High School, where students are encouraged to serve their communities through the Sconzo Service-Learning Program. Each Friday, students volunteer at hospitals, schools, and nature preserves in the Humble and Kingwood areas.David chose the airport.“I’ve always loved airports,” he said. “There’s just something about the energy when you’re traveling or picking up family. I visited the Houston Airports website, Fly2Houston.com and learned about the Volunteer Ambassador program. I decided to reach out.”He contacted Ella Ghica, manager of outreach initiatives and volunteer programs for Houston Airports. She introduced him to the program, gave him a tour of the terminal, and helped him start his service at the busy Terminal A information booth.RELATED | Learn how to volunteer at Houston's airports“Fridays are hectic—but I love that,” David said. “The airport is always moving. There’s always something to learn. Every week, I leave knowing something new.”David volunteers from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., assisting passengers with directions, answering questions, and helping ease travel stress.“There have been moments when people didn’t speak English or were in a rush or frustrated,” he said. “But I just listen, stay calm, and do what I can to help. Seeing someone smile after I’ve helped them—it’s the best part of the day.”David credits much of his growth to the mentors he met through the program.“Mr. Jim G., Mr. Ciro R., Ms. Pat Y., Mr. Rick—thank you for everything,” he said. “You’ve shared your knowledge, your time, and your love for the passengers. I admire all of you so much.”David will continue volunteering through the end of the school year before heading to Texas A&M University in the fall.“I’m grateful to Houston Airports for this opportunity,” he said. “Being a Volunteer Ambassador has taught me about patience, communication and customer service. But more than that, it’s taught me to see people—to really look up and notice the people around me.”And his message to anyone considering the program?“Go for it,” David said. “You’ll be joining something really special.”

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.”