As momentum continues to soar from a record-breaking year for international passenger traffic, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) was recently recognized by a panel of airline executives and for its rapid route development and ability to enhance airline relationships at the 2014 Routes Americas Airport Marketing Awards.

The annual event is highly regarded as one of the most prestigious award ceremonies in the industry.  Airports are nominated and judged by airline executives for best overall marketing services including relationship development, data and information analysis and overall results to establish new routes and develop existing routes. Bush Intercontinental Airport was named the winner in the over 20 million passenger airports category.

“The Houston Airport System is honored to be recognized by the airline community and Routes Americas and this award further positions Houston as a leading international gateway,” said Molly Waits, HAS Director of Air Service Development. “It has been a sensational 12-month period for the Houston Airport System with the addition of Turkish Airlines, Air China, and Korean Air.  Next year will be equally exciting as we welcome new service to Munich by United Airlines, and we prepare to launch international service at Houston’s Hobby Airport.” 

Bush Intercontinental Airport enjoyed record-setting international passenger totals in 2013 with the launch of Turkish Airlines and Air China. Within the first year of operation, both airlines expanded service to daily. Korean Air recently announced its plans to expand to daily service even before operating the first flight in Houston. United Airlines announced it will be adding a second daily flight to Tokyo-Narita International Airport in March and will also launch new daily service to Munich, Germany in April 2014. 

“Houston’s diverse and vibrant economy drives passenger demand and with Houston’s economy at an all-time high, airlines are choosing to invest in our city,” said Ian Wadsworth, Chief Commercial Officer for the Houston Airport System.  “Our air service development team is top notch and has established long-term working relationships with the airlines now choosing to serve Houston.  The entire HAS team partners with each airline to ensure its success in the Houston market.” 

The 2014 seventh annual Routes Americas air route development event was held February 24 in San Salvador, El Salvador.