Bush and Hobby airports are ready to serve 2.2 million travelers this Thanksgiving, a 2% increase from 2023.
HOUSTON – Houston Airports will welcome a record 2.2 million passengers during the 2024 Thanksgiving holiday travel period, which spans Thursday, November 21 to Monday, December 2. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is expected to serve 1.7 million passengers, while William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) anticipates 500,000 travelers. This marks a 2% increase from 2023 and a 9% increase from 2022.
Record-breaking travel days expected
Of the 12-day holiday period, 10 days are forecasted to see more than 175,000 daily passengers at IAH and HOU combined. The busiest travel days will be Sunday, December 1, with an estimated 206,000 travelers; Friday, November 22, with 205,000 passengers; and Sunday, November 24, with 200,000 passengers.
These record-breaking numbers reflect growing demand for air travel through Houston. More than 75% of passengers will fly domestically, with less than 25% traveling internationally.
Houston Airports is dedicated to ensuring passengers are informed and prepared for a smoother, stress-free travel experience this Thanksgiving.
Collaboration with Houston Police
Houston Airports and the Houston Police Department continue to work together to mitigate traffic along the Arrivals and Departures curbs at Bush Airport. Houston Airports also contracts law enforcement officers from other area agencies for traffic control. And, since November 2023, Houston Airports has hired an additional 30 airport employees to work Landside Operations along the IAH curbs.
Traffic improvements at Bush Airport
On November 20, in a symbol of construction progress of the new international terminal, Houston Airports will reopen lane on North Terminal Road at Bush Airport, restoring the road to four-lanes of traffic.
The additional lane will improve traffic flow but it will not alleviate congestion, as record passengers and construction continue this Thanksgiving. People driving to IAH should anticipate delays and arrive early.
Enhanced parking efficiency with new cashless system
Houston Airports is modernizing its airport experience with a new Cashless Parking System. This advanced system includes license plate readers. The technology is operating at Hobby Airport and at IAH ecopark2. The latest phase of the installation is happening at the IAH Terminal C/D/E Garage. We appreciate your patience as we work to implement the technology at the entrance and exit kiosks this holiday season.
Top travel tips for a smooth journey
- Reserve parking online: Make parking reservations at least 12 hours in advance to secure a spot.
- Arrive early: With millions expected at Houston's airports, early arrival is crucial for navigating parking, ticketing and TSA security lines.
- Stay aware of traffic conditions: Increased holiday travel across Houston and ongoing construction could impact drive times to Bush Airport.
- Download the Houston Airports app: This app allows travelers to reserve parking, monitor TSA wait times and locate dining options by terminal.
“Our focus is on providing an efficient, seamless experience for the record number of travelers passing through our airports this Thanksgiving,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “With new traffic and parking enhancements, we’re committed to supporting passengers during the busiest travel days of the year.”