Kindness in action: How Hobby Airport’s Raymond Harris turns travel stress into smiles

Hobby Airport’s customer service standout earns praise for turning small moments of kindness into unforgettable travel experiences.

December 19, 2024

At William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), one name continues to stand out among passenger feedback: Raymond Harris. Since August 21, Raymond, a senior airport service representative for Houston Airports, has received 13 heartfelt compliments from travelers who were so impressed by his exceptional hospitality they stopped to share their experiences.

That may not seem extraordinary until you consider the scale—last year alone, 14 million passengers traveled through Hobby Airport. Between rushing to flights, navigating security or finding their ride after landing, most passengers don’t have a moment to spare. Yet, Raymond’s care and kindness have made travelers pause to recognize him time and time again.

“Raymond with Hobby Airport was friendly, helpful and knowledgeable! He went above and beyond to help us locate an area to drop off our bags before our flight! He walked us to every place and person in order for us to find where we needed to go!  Had a wonderful personality!!! Great job!!!!!”

-Hobby Airport passenger, August 24, 2024

For one passenger feeling overwhelmed and lost, Raymond did more than provide directions. He walked beside them all the way to their gate, turning their confusion into relief with a reassuring smile. Another traveler, juggling luggage and stress, shared how Raymond noticed their struggle and immediately offered to help, easing the burden of a difficult day.

“Raymond made our wait at Hobby Airport so much better by directing us to check our bags early for Cruise guests. He also recommended food nearby and walked us to where we needed to be. What an angel!!”

-Hobby Airport passenger, August 24, 2024

On October 24, one passenger described his interaction with Raymond as the “highlight of my trip,” writing, “He made us feel like we belonged, and his kindness set the tone for our entire journey.” Moments like these, often small but deeply meaningful, leave an impression that travelers carry long after they leave the terminal.

I just want to say that Raymond working down in U.S. Customs/Immigration for international arrivals was phenomenal. He was kind and made our children laugh. Above all else, he was so helpful and patient as we were trying to complete our Global Entry interviews. I have never had such a wonderful interaction with anyone in an airport before. Give that man a raise and have him train your future employees.

-Hobby Airport passenger, December 16, 2024

Dawn Hoffman, assistant director of Hobby Airport for Houston Airports, reflected on Raymond’s remarkable impact. “Raymond Harris represents the very best of Hobby Airport. The fact that so many passengers have gone out of their way to recognize his hospitality speaks volumes. Raymond doesn’t just do his job—he sets a standard. We are so proud of the way he cares for our passengers and makes every traveler feel like they belong here.”

Raymond’s ability to connect with travelers embodies why Hobby Airport is the first and only 5-Star Skytrax-rated airport in North America and has been named Best Regional Airport in North America for three consecutive years. Hobby is more than a gateway—it’s a place where small moments of care turn ordinary travel into something memorable.

“I travel often to many airports and this is by far my favorite experience. Raymond Harris offers impeccable service with a smile. He made us laugh and helped us more than we could have helped ourselves. I am traveling with a dear friend who needs a wheelchair, and the bulk of the lifting is on me. I was swamped with handling 6 bags, and he went out of his way to help us. Raymond is irreplaceable, and every airport needs people like Raymond. Exemplary service, exceptional kindness, and a genuinely good person describe Raymond perfectly. Thank you!” 

-Hobby Airport passenger, September 7, 2024

So, the next time you travel through Hobby Airport, keep an eye out for Raymond Harris or one of his colleagues who make Houston Airports a place where travelers feel welcome, valued and cared for. And if someone at our airports makes your travel experience better, share your story by scanning one of the feedback survey QR codes near gates, restrooms or concessions, or by visiting fly2houston.com/contact. Because kindness, like Raymond’s, deserves to be shared.