Houston Airports is making strategic investments to ensure that when the world lands in Houston in 2026, they’ll experience a city—and an airport system—ready to deliver excellence.
Houston Airports Director of Aviation joins Houston Mayor John Whitmire, Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo and other community leaders in celebrating 500 days until Houston hosts the world's biggest soccer tournament.
With just 500 days to go until the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Houston is accelerating preparations to welcome the world—and Houston Airports is playing a key role in ensuring seamless travel for millions of visitors.
On Monday, January 27, city and county leaders joined the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston™ Host Committee at NRG Stadium to provide updates on critical infrastructure, security, fan engagement and transportation efforts as Houston gears up to host seven matches for the biggest sporting event on the planet.
For Houston Airports, the countdown means advancing major improvements at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to support an expected surge in international travel. With a record 63.1 million passengers welcomed in 2024, Houston’s airports are already experiencing record-breaking numbers, and preparations are underway to ensure a world-class experience for travelers arriving in 2026.
“Holding seven World Cup matches in Houston is a game-changer for our city’s global profile,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “As the first and last impression for millions of visitors, Bush and Hobby airports are investing in enhanced facilities, cutting-edge technology and seamless connectivity to create an unforgettable experience for travelers.”
Preparing Houston’s Airports for the World Cup
As Houston gears up to host seven matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Houston Airports is undertaking several initiatives to ensure a seamless experience for the anticipated influx of international visitors. These efforts include:
- IAH International Terminal Expansion: The new International Central Processor (ICP), opening ahead of 2026, will streamline international arrivals and departures with cutting-edge technology, improved security screening and faster baggage claim.
- Infrastructure Enhancements: To accommodate increased passenger traffic, significant upgrades to terminals, including expanded gate areas and improved baggage handling systems, are underway at IAH and HOU.
- Seamless Passenger Flow: Upgrades to Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processing will reduce wait times and improve the experience for international travelers at both IAH and HOU.
- Customer Service Training: Airport customer service teams are receiving specialized training to better assist all travelers, ensuring language support, cultural sensitivity and the opportunity to help passengers of all abilities.
- Sustainability & Transportation: Investments in eco-friendly ground service equipment, airport transit improvements and expanded rideshare zones will help manage high passenger volumes while reducing congestion and emissions.sd
- Restroom Renovations: A $30 million investment is dedicated to renovating restrooms at both Bush and Hobby airports. This project includes replacing flooring, walls, stalls, lighting, sinks, and counters. Stalls will be enlarged to accommodate carry-on luggage and equipped with shelves for personal belongings. Advanced technology, such as occupancy sensors and smart dispensers, will enhance efficiency and cleanliness. These upgrades aim to provide a modern, comfortable and hygienic environment for all travelers.
As the FIFA World Cup 2026™ approaches, Houston's strategic location and extensive flight network make it an ideal hub for fans planning to attend matches across North America. With 16 host cities spanning the United States, Canada and Mexico, Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) offer direct flights to many of these destinations, providing convenient travel options for supporters.
Houston is home to more than 100,000 hotel rooms and thousands of short-term rentals. Several area restaurants are now featured in the world-renowned Michelin Guide, and there are plenty of parks, museums and shopping districts for soccer fans to visit. Houston is also home to NASA, with a visit to Space Center Houston about 20 minutes from Hobby Airport. Houston's central position and robust connectivity ensure that fans can efficiently travel to various match locations, making it a practical and accessible base for the tournament.