Hobby Airport Expands with Vision for a Modern, Seamless Travel Experience

A brighter, more spacious Hobby Airport is on the horizon as Houston Airports and Southwest Airlines expand the airport to deliver modern amenities and a seamless travel experience.

(IN SHORT) Hobby Airport in Houston is undergoing a major expansion, backed by a $470 million investment from Houston Airports and Southwest Airlines. This includes adding seven new gates, improving the baggage claim area with natural light, and enhancing passenger flow with new baggage carousels and a modern baggage handling system. The project also plans to create more space for restaurants, retail, and public art. Although temporary construction barriers may affect some areas, the expansion aims to improve the travel experience, with the completion expected in 2027. These updates continue Houston’s commitment to maintaining its leadership in passenger satisfaction and modern amenities.

(PRESS RELEASE) HOUSTON, TX, 2024-Jan-9 — /Travel PR News/ — Houston Airports and Southwest Airlines have launched a transformative project at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), North America’s first 5-Star Skytrax airport, aiming to enhance the travel experience with expanded amenities and modern features. The multi-million-dollar expansion will significantly improve the airport’s capacity and services, creating a more spacious, bright, and efficient space for travelers.

As of December 2024, passengers arriving at Hobby Airport will notice the first signs of change—open ceilings in the baggage claim area. These alterations are part of a larger plan to update the airport’s infrastructure and increase its ability to handle growing passenger traffic. Although some areas, like baggage claim, may have temporary construction barriers, travelers can rest assured that regular operations will continue with clear signage guiding them to their baggage carousels.

This $470 million investment will see the West Concourse expanded by adding seven new gates to accommodate both domestic and international flights, improving connections for travelers. In addition, the baggage claim area will be enhanced with clerestory windows to let in natural light, and a new baggage handling system will streamline passenger flow with two additional carousels. To further improve the passenger experience, a sleek new overhead canopy will connect the garage to the Departures Curb, while more space will be created for restaurants, retail shops, and public art reflecting Houston’s cultural heritage.

The expansion builds on Southwest Airlines’ 2015 reopening of the West Concourse, which restored international air service to Hobby for the first time in nearly 50 years. This new phase promises to elevate the airport’s service, integrating modern design with Houston-friendly hospitality.

“Raising the bar for passenger experience, this project is not just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a seamless journey from the moment passengers step off their plane to when they leave the airport,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation at Houston Airports.

While construction continues through 2027, travelers are encouraged to check for updates on the airport’s website, fly2houston.com, for the latest information on changes and enhancements. Houston Airports thanks passengers for their patience as it works to create the bigger, brighter, and better airport the city deserves.

Media Contact:

HAS.PIO@houstontx.gov
281-233-1234

Source: Houston Airports

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