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For nearly a decade, Shotgun, a fox-red Labrador retriever with a heart as big as Texas, has been a familiar, comforting presence at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Whether easing travel anxieties, bringing joy to children or simply offering a moment of calm in the rush of an international terminal, Shotgun wasn’t just a member of the Houston Airports Pet Therapy program—he was a trusted friend to millions of passengers.After 340 hours of volunteer service and countless wagging tails, Shotgun is hanging up his vest. His retirement marks the end of an era for the Houston Airports Pet Therapy program, where he became a legend in the halls of IAH. He would ride the Skytrain with excited children, greeting travelers at every terminal or donning festive outfits for holidays and special events. Shotgun sported a cowboy hat when the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo came to town. He proudly wore the team's jersey during the many MLB World Series runs by the Houston Astros. No matter the occasion, he was there, ready to lift spirits.But Shotgun’s impact stretched far beyond the airport. At just six months old, he began training to become a certified therapy dog and received his certification six months later. Shotgun spent seven years working with patients at TIRR Memorial Hermann in the Texas Medical Center. He also served as an animal-assisted therapy dog at M.D. Anderson Children’s Hospital, offering comfort to patients facing life-changing treatments. In 2016, he received his crisis response certification and was among the first dogs to volunteer with the Houston Airports Pet Therapy program.LEARN MORE | Houston Airports Pet Therapy ProgramFor nine years, he and his handler, Louise, visited Bush Airport two to four times monthly, offering comfort to passengers and airport staff alike. With his extensive therapy experience, Shotgun was a perfect fit for Houston Airports. He instinctively knew which traveler needed him most—offering a paw, a gentle nudge or simply sitting beside them for comfort.His presence was a highlight at Wings for All and Fantasy Flight, where children facing hardships got a magical airport experience. He walked in holiday parades and even stopped to listen to Harmony in the Air musicians, allowing passengers to pet him as they enjoyed the music. On Thursday, February 27, his final day as a volunteer at IAH, Shotgun walked one last special journey with fellow Houston Airports Pet Therapy dog Minka.For Ella Ghica, Manager of Outreach Initiatives and Volunteer Programs for Houston Airports, saying goodbye to Shotgun was bittersweet. “It was hard seeing him wobble a bit when he was walking, but even in retirement, he still had that spark, that eagerness to comfort people,” she said. “He has been a part of so many travelers’ experiences. Shotgun knew who needed him most, whether it was a young child, a nervous flyer or even an exhausted airline crew member. He made the journey better for so many people." Though his paws will no longer grace IAH Terminal A's terrazzo floors, Shotgun's legacy endures—not just through the countless passengers he comforted but also in the next generation of therapy dogs he helped train, and in the very spirit of the program he shaped. His retirement is well-earned, and while Houston Airports bids farewell to a beloved airport ambassador, one thing is sure. Every time a traveler encounters a Houston Airports Pet Therapy dog at a Houston airport, they'll be riding Shotgun's legacy.

—A Special Submission by Randall CorbinWhen I arrived in Houston, I knew my time here would be short—just six months before the U.S. Navy would transfer me to my next assignment. I could have spent that time simply going through the motions of my daily routine, but I wanted something more. I wanted to serve my community in a meaningful way, to help others beyond my everyday duties. That’s how I found myself walking through George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) doors as a Houston Airports Volunteer Ambassador.From day one, I was welcomed with open arms. I was asked if I could meet the program’s requirement of 16 hours a month, and I said yes without hesitation. But I didn’t expect how quickly those hours would turn into 24, then 30, then more, simply because I loved being there. The experience was far more rewarding than I could have imagined.As a Houston Airports Volunteer Ambassador, I had the privilege of assisting hundreds of travelers—some anxious, some excited, all navigating the vast terminals of Houston’s biggest airport. I greeted passengers from all over the world, each carrying their own stories, cultures and languages. It was a firsthand lesson in cultural diversity, patience and human connection. It was also a reminder of how a simple act of kindness—a warm greeting, a smile, a few helpful directions—can transform someone’s travel experience.One day, while working the information booth at IAH Terminal A near Baggage Claim, I was juggling multiple questions, directing passengers and ensuring everyone got the help they needed. In the middle of the rush, a gentleman I had just assisted turned back to me and said, “Thanks, man. You are awesome.”Those simple words stuck with me. It wasn’t just the appreciation—it was the reciprocating effect of helping others. I’ve completed countless duties in my military career, but there’s something special about going the extra mile for a stranger and feeling that appreciation in return. That moment didn’t just lift my mood—it stayed with me, making my whole week brighter.This program is unlike any other volunteer effort I’ve participated in. There aren’t many opportunities to interact with such a diverse range of people and truly impact their journey. I’ve passed this experience along to my friends and would recommend it to anyone looking to serve their community in a meaningful, dynamic way.Before I leave Houston, I want to express my deep gratitude to those who made this experience unforgettable. Ella Ghica, Manager of Outreach Initiatives and Volunteer Programs for Houston Airports and Gabriele McKown, a customer service supervisor for Houston Airports, made sure volunteers always felt valued, appreciated, and part of something bigger. My fellow volunteers inspired me with their dedication, and the staff at Houston Airports welcomed me as part of their airport family.Although my time at Bush Airport was brief, the impact of this experience will stay with me for a lifetime.My advice to anyone considering becoming a Houston Airports Volunteer Ambassador is simple: Say yes, sign up, and take the adventure. You’ll be amazed at the difference a single act of service can make—not just for others but also for yourself.

For European travelers seeking a seamless and inspiring entry into the United States, Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) offers a world-class experience with cutting-edge upgrades. The newly expanded international terminal features the spacious Terminal E Ticketing Lobby, designed for efficiency and ease, alongside Dale Chihuly's largest airport commission—an awe-inspiring glass installation welcoming passengers to a city where art and culture thrive. The newly expanded Terminal D elevates the passenger journey with a mesmerizing LED wall and modern amenities like a mother's room, sensory room, companion care changing room and child's play area, which make connections through Houston effortless.But Houston is more than just a stopover—it's a destination. As the most diverse city in the U.S., it offers Michelin-celebrated restaurants, stunning parks, world-class ballet and theater, and a vibrant live music scene featuring top international acts. With year-round sunshine, European travelers can escape the winter chill and explore miles of trails, bayous and even Gulf Coast beaches. Sports fans can catch the NBA's Rockets, MLB's Astros or the NFL's Texans in action, while space enthusiasts can visit NASA's Johnson Space Center, home to human spaceflight history.Houston is also a premier gateway to the South-Central U.S. and Latin America, offering seamless connections to destinations like Puerto Escondido, Mexico; Tulum; Costa Rica; Colombia; Honduras; and Guatemala. Whether discovering Houston's hidden gems or using it as a springboard to the Americas, traveling through Bush Airport ensures your journey is modern, seamless and unforgettable.

The transformation of Terminal B at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is in full swing. With significant progress underway on its $2.55 investment, United Airlines is working to enhance the passenger experience. The redevelopment of one of Bush Airport’s two original terminals will introduce state-of-the-art facilities, an expanded security screening area and upgraded amenities to accommodate the increasing demand for air travel.Travelers flying through Bush Airport during Spring Break—from March 6 to March 17—can watch the project’s progress while catching a ride on the airport’s Skyway.At the heart of the transformation, two massive 1,100-ton cranes are actively shaping the new Processor—the centralized hub for ticketing, security screening and baggage claim. The site has seen substantial advancements since early 2025, with steel structures rising as United Airlines and its construction partners move full steam ahead.Additionally, the United Club in Terminal B closed on January 15, 2025, as part of the terminal’s redevelopment. Once the new Terminal B opens, it will feature a 50,000 sq. foot United Club—the largest in the airline’s network—offering travelers stunning views of the Moment Factory digital artwork and the airfield.United Club Fly now open in Terminal B------------------------------------------A new United Club Fly is now open. United Club Fly is designed for busy travelers seeking a quick yet elevated lounge experience. Located near gates B12-B20 and right across from Panda Express and the Line Sports Grill, this 2,440-square-foot space offers a seamless, self-scan entry process, allowing eligible guests—including United Club members, United Club Infinite cardholders and United customers traveling internationally in a premium cabin and Star Alliance Gold members traveling internationally—to grab premium to-go selections with ease. Passengers simply scan their boarding pass or United Club card for entry.Featuring Space City-inspired décor, locally sourced offerings and barista-crafted coffee drinks like Lavender Matcha Lattes and Blueberry Acai “Galaxy” Lattes, United Club Fly redefines convenience and comfort. Travelers simply take the few items they’ve selected and walk out of the exit turnstile. Open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., the new United Club Fly ensures a frictionless stop before takeoff.What’s coming next?----------------------- New Concessions & Retail: United Airlines and OTG have released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for 24 new concession spaces in Terminal B, including a mix of food, beverage and specialty retail. Expanded Passenger Amenities: The redesigned Terminal B will feature 40 new gates, spacious concourses and an upgraded curbside experience for Departures and Arrivals. Improved Security & Check-in: A modernized processor will streamline passenger flow with expanded TSA screening lanes, self-service kiosks and a next-generation baggage system.Temporary changes during construction-----------------------------------------To accommodate the ongoing work, the Terminal B lobby closed on January 21, 2025. Passengers flying out of Terminal B gates should check in at Terminal C and use the Skyway train to access their gates.The new lobby is scheduled to reopen in 2026.Airport guests and passengers will find updated signage guiding them to various points of interest, including to and from available parking garages. United Airlines is providing a complimentary shuttle for passengers who park in the IAH A/B Parking Garages. Parking is also available in the IAH C/D/E Garage, reservations are strongly encouraged.Houston Airports also offers multiple ecopark lots, which shuttle passengers directly to their respective terminals. Learn more: www.fly2houston.com/parking

The moment a traveler steps into an airport, they are faced with a choice: Will this journey be effortless, or will it be another battle against long security lines, crowded ticketing areas, and frustrating delays?For years, passengers at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) faced that uncertainty—especially at the congested Terminal C, where check-ins for Terminal E flights have been crammed together since August 2, 2021. But on February 24, Houston changed the game. With the opening of the newly expanded Terminal E Ticketing Lobby, United Airlines passengers now have a dedicated space for check-in and security screening. The lobby boasts 10 TSA lanes, a streamlined layout and the return of curbside drop-offs. The airport system's aviation director says this is more than just a terminal upgrade—it’s a reimagining of the entire travel experience at Bush Airport.“For many travelers, this is their first or last impression of Houston,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “We want that impression to be world-class.”Why This Terminal Matters NowThe opening of the new ticketing lobby is part of a $1.458 billion overhaul of Bush Airport’s international facilities, aimed at modernizing the airport for a future dominated by larger aircraft, booming international travel and high-tech security solutions.Houston is already one of the busiest international gateways in the U.S., with United Airlines operating more than 500 daily flights from IAH to destinations across the globe. But as travel demand soars post-pandemic, airports are scrambling to expand capacity.“We’re seeing record numbers of travelers, and they expect a better experience,” said Szczesniak. “This new facility is part of a larger vision to make Houston a leader in aviation.” The biggest immediate benefit of Terminal E’s opening? It frees up Terminal C, which has been handling the overflow of passengers since Terminal E’s check-in closed in 2021.“Now that Terminal E has its own ticketing and security checkpoint, we’re seeing a much smoother experience across the airport,” Szczesniak said. “Passengers can check in, go through TSA and be at their gates in record time.”Inside the Terminal of the FutureThe new Terminal E Departures level isn’t just about efficiency—it’s also designed to impress.Passengers entering the space are met with floor-to-ceiling windows, flooding the terminal with natural light. What is the highlight of the space?The Oculus—a massive digital art installation that will transform the passenger experience through interactive visuals and immersive storytelling about the many layers of Houston's iconic flavor. “This is a world-class facility, and I think Houstonians will be very proud of it,” Szczesniak said.But this is just one phase of a much larger plan.What’s Next for Bush Airport?By the end of the year, Bush Airport will relocate all international airlines from Terminal D to Terminal E, creating a seamless global travel experience. This move will consolidate check-ins, eliminate unnecessary connections, and bring all international flights under one roof. And more changes are coming. The airport’s vision includes: Additional TSA lanes to further speed up security screening A high-tech baggage system designed to move 21 million bags annually. More gates for larger aircraft and expanded United Airlines operations. A next-generation concessions program bringing more Houston-inspired dining options.It’s a massive undertaking that Szczesniak believes is necessary to compete with the world’s top airports.Houston’s Moment on the Global StageHouston is already home to NASA, a thriving energy sector and one of the country's most diverse populations. Now, with a state-of-the-art international terminal, the city is doubling down on its status as a global leader in business and travel. “This isn’t just an airport project,” Szczesniak said. “This is an investment in Houston’s future.”For the 48.6 million passengers who passed through Bush Airport in 2024, the journey is about to get a whole lot easier. And for Houston? This is just the beginning.

The Houston Airports Aviator Run is back and bigger than ever in 2025! This is the third year of the community event. Don’t miss your chance to lace up and run, walk or stroll down the runway at Ellington Airport (EFD), home to the Houston Spaceport, which celebrates its 10 anniversary this year.Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to get your steps in, this one-of-a-kind 5k fun run experience—which spans 3.1 miles—is open to individuals, families, corporate teams and groups. And yes, strollers are welcome—so bring the whole crew! Ages six and under are free to run. No pets are allowed on the airfield. Due to the location of the run, all runners are subject to search for security and safety reasons.Run for a CauseYour $40 registration fee isn’t just for fun—it’s for a purpose. All proceeds will benefit the airport community through the Wings of Compassion – a Houston Airports charity organization, which provides scholarships and financial aid to airport employees. The registration fee increases to $50 on March 1. This event is hosted in partnership with the City of Houston Combined Municipal Campaign.Event DetailsSaturday, March 29, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. Ellington Airport CLICK HERE: Register now and join the movement!

The countdown is over. Houston Airports will open the first phase of the International Central Processor (ICP) in February 2025, marking a significant milestone in the ambitious IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP). This phase introduces a new Ticketing Lobby for United Airlines passengers flying out of Terminal E.Before passengers step into this modernized space, months of meticulous planning, testing and teamwork took place to ensure a seamless transition. Kelly Woodward, chief operating officer for Houston Airports, spoke about the intensive behind-the-scenes effort.“This is not an easy feat,” Woodward said. “The ORAT team has spent months preparing for this. They test everything from the ticket counters to the wayfinding to the curbs to the actual lighting in the building.”What is ORAT?-----------------For those unfamiliar, ORAT—Operational Readiness and Airport Transition—is critical in preparing new airport facilities for day-one operations. Their mission is simple but essential: identify and eliminate potential issues before passengers arrive."Their job is to get the facility ready. Their job is to make sure there are no unforeseen issues or circumstances that pop up on day one,” Woodward explained. “If the facility operates on day one as designed, then ORAT has done its job.” A Team Effort-----------------Beyond ORAT, more than 300 employees from across Houston Airports volunteered to test every aspect of the new lobby. From checking in at the new Departures Curb to dropping bags, navigating signage and passing through security, these employees played the role of travelers to ensure a smooth experience for the public.“It took twice as many people to make this happen compared to previous tests of the International Arrivals Curb,” Woodward said. “We had everyone—customer service representatives, custodial staff, infrastructure teams—all contributing. Every single role within our organization is, in a way, passenger-facing.” A Moment of Pride---------------------The journey to this opening has been years in the making. Woodward recalled how the facility’s operational design was completed in 2020, at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—a time of uncertainty that makes this moment even more significant.“It’s finally here,” Woodward said. “We’ve waited a long time. We’ve had a lot of heartache, a lot of traffic, a lot of congestion. But to finally see it come to fruition? It’s amazing.”Woodward emphasized the importance of momentum as Houston Airports moves forward with additional phases of the ICP and prepares for major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup."We just have to keep going,” she said. “Houston deserves world-class airports, and our passengers deserve a first-class experience and it’s our job to deliver.”Watch the full interview with KellyWoodward below.

In 2015, Houston Airports obtained FAA approval to establish a commercial spaceport at Ellington Airport (EFD). This was an ambitious initiative for a city already recognized as Space City. Today, the Houston Spaceport is home to pioneers such as Axiom Space, Collins Aerospace and Intuitive Machines. These companies are driving global space innovation and have created nearly 2,000 jobs at the spaceport. This anniversary is not just a milestone. It is a testament to what can be achieved when ambition meets action. The future of space exploration is being built right here in Houston, Texas.READ MORE | Houston Spaceport at 10: Propelling innovation and explorationBLAST FROM THE PAST | Houston Spaceport celebrates Phase 1 development with ground-breaking ceremony

For travelers, missing a flight is frustrating. Losing a passport before an international trip? Devastating.That was the reality for Sanae Bingham, who arrived at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) around 2 a.m. on January 7. In a message to Houston Airports sent through the airport system's online feedback portal, Bingham shared how she was exhausted after a nine-hour flight delay from Orange County, California. In her fatigue, she accidentally left her crossbody bag—with her passport inside—next to her seat.Bingham’s next flight--to Santiago, Chile--was set to depart around 8:30 p.m.Around 12 p.m., she realized she had lost her bag. What followed were hours of panic, searching and dead ends.“My husband and I frantically searched all over the airport—our airline's Lost and Found three times, baggage claim Lost & Found twice, even asking the gate attendant to check the airplane we were on when it arrived again in Houston—to no avail," Bingham wrote.By 5 p.m.—just three hours before their flight to Santiago, Chile—she was out of options.A last-ditch effort-----------------------Then, she remembered something: her AirPods were inside the missing bag.Using the Find My iPhone app, she and her husband began tracking the bag’s last known location. An airline gate agent, airport employees and a few good samaritans tried to help, but as time ran out, they gave up one by one."So as the last straw, we thought of asking the airport police for help," Bingham wrote.That’s when they met Officer Salim Howze of the Houston Police Department, stationed at IAH."He walked with my iPhone in hand to detect the signal from AirPods. He was able to search in areas we wouldn’t easily access," she said.With boarding time approaching, Officer Howze followed the signal—through secure areas, down to baggage claim and beyond."By the time he found my passport, it was about 15 minutes before boarding time, and I was physically shaking, filled with sorrow and disappointment in myself," Bingham recalled.Then, she looked up."When he rode up the escalator, he magically had my bag in his hand!!! I couldn’t believe it, and I started bawling," she wrote. "He told us it was at the baggage claim Lost & Found (apparently, not the one I visited twice earlier)."With no time to waste, she and her husband thanked Officer Howze and ran to their gate—making their flight with minutes to spare.A trip nearly lost, a memory never forgotten------------------------------------------------Had the bag remained lost, Sanae Bingham's dream trip would have ended in Houston. Instead, thanks to Officer Howze’s persistence, she and her husband made it to Santiago as scheduled and traveled on to Antarctica and throughout South America—a journey years in the making. "Thanks to him finding my bag, we traveled there from Santiago as scheduled and thoroughly enjoyed the experience down under," she wrote.Weeks later, near the end of their travels, Bingham found time to send a message:"Thank you, Officer Howze, for going above and beyond to locate my passport. You could easily have left us with our airline, which would have ended our trip to Antarctica. We will never forget your kindness."Recognition from Houston Airports and HPD---------------------------------------------The story of Officer Howze’s quick thinking spread through Houston Airports and the Houston Police Department."Officer Howze’s actions exemplify the highest level of dedication and care, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to assisting passengers in moments of distress," wrote Josh Samic with Houston Airports in a message to HPD leadership. "His willingness to go beyond expectations made a lasting difference in this traveler’s journey, turning what could have been a devastating situation into a moment of relief and gratitude."Andrew Czobor, Assistant Director of IAH Terminal Management for Houston Airports, echoed the praise. "This is what Guest Experience is all about: unifying all our aviation community to work together!"HPD leadership ensured Officer Howze’s commendation was added to his personnel file."We are very proud of him, and we truly are the lucky ones!" wrote Houston Police Lt. Bridget Lummus.For Sanae Bingham, this was more than a recovered passport. It was the difference between a lost opportunity and an unforgettable adventure—one made possible by a Houston Police officer who refused to give up.LEARN MORE | Lost something at Bush Airport? Here's how to begin your searchLEARN MORE | Lost something at Hobby Airport? Here's how to begin your searchRELATED | Lost and Found: The quest to reunite passengers with their lost treasures

For Houston travelers who are short on time but craving a change of scenery, a quick flight under 300 miles might be the perfect escape. Whether it’s a Texas weekend getaway or a last-minute Spring Break destination, flights from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) offer plenty of options that get you there in about an hour—or less.Under an Hour: The Quickest Flights from IAHThe shortest commercial flight out of Bush Airport takes just 54 minutes and covers 123 miles to Victoria, Texas. The South Texas city may not be a household name for travelers, but its historic charm and access to the Guadalupe River make it a hidden gem worth visiting.Nearby, Lake Charles, Louisiana, is a 60-minute flight away and offers an entirely different kind of escape—one that includes casino resorts, live music and Creole cuisine.For travelers looking to stay in Texas but get out of Houston, quick 60-minute flights to Austin or San Antonio make a weekend trip more convenient than ever. Skip the I-10 traffic and land in San Antonio’s River Walk district or hit the music scene in Austin with time to spare.Beyond Texas: Louisiana & the Gulf CoastIf a weekend of Cajun food and Southern hospitality sounds appealing, Lafayette, Baton Rouge and Shreveport, Louisiana, are all within a 1.5-hour flight from IAH.For a coastal escape, Corpus Christi is just a 60 flight away, offering easy access to Padre Island National Seashore—a prime spot for spring breakers or anyone seeking sun and sand.From Hobby Airport: The Fast Track to Texas DestinationsThe same quick access applies for travelers flying out of Hobby Airport. Flights to Austin, Corpus Christi, San Antonio and Dallas range from 55 to 103 minutes, giving travelers multiple options for a quick Texas getaway.And for those eyeing the southern tip of Texas, Harlingen offers a gateway to the Rio Grande Valley, South Padre Island and the Gulf Coast. The flight from Houston is one hour.Why Fly? The Case for Skipping the DriveThe debate over whether to fly or drive is common for destinations like Austin and San Antonio. But a 55-minute flight can shave hours off a road trip, especially when contending with traffic in Houston and Austin. This allows more time for exploring, dining or just relaxing.With flights to nine Texas cities and five Louisiana destinations--all under 300 miles--Houston’s airports provide a convenient launchpad for spontaneous weekend getaways and easy vacation escapes.The only question left? Where to next?

At William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), delivering world-class customer service isn't just a goal—it's an expectation. Adrian Brown and Gracie Reyes prove why.Adrian Brown and the case of a missing charger--------------------------------------------------On February 5, 2025, a computer programmer on a business trip had just cleared the TSA checkpoint when they realized their laptop charger was missing."I searched the rest of the bag. No charger. I searched my other bag. Then, I searched the first bag again. Then, the second. Again. It was lost," they wrote in an anonymous compliment submitted through the Houston Airports online feedback form.Frustrated, they spotted a Houston Airports employee--Adrian Brown--diagnosing a power outlet issue."I am a computer programmer on a business trip. Without a computer, however, I am neither of these things. Desperate, I explained my situation to the employee, who promptly outlined the best course of action. Mr. Brown introduced himself, made some calls, and escorted me to his top three suspects for the location of the charger." Brown checked three key locations: the TSA Desk, Lane 1 at TSA, and finally, TSA near the USPS mailbox—where he found the charger plugged into a charging station."Well, he found it, and I was saved. Was my career also saved? I am happy to never know," the traveler wrote.For Lynette Campbell, Division Manager of Terminal Management at Hobby Airport, Brown's efforts were a prime example of what sets Houston Airports employees apart."He saved the day," Campbell said. "Adrian didn't just assist—he took ownership of the situation, stayed with the passenger every step of the way, and ensured they left with exactly what they needed. That's the level of service we strive for at Hobby Airport."Gracie Reyes: Lending a helping hand----------------------------------------Another Hobby Airport employee, Graciela Reyes, was recognized twice in the same week for her compassion and quick thinking. On February 3, a traveler panicked as she could not call an Uber after misplacing her phone."Graciela was so kind in helping me to call my Uber and get my phone—I was so scared and did not know if I would be stranded or what! Thank you for being so kind and so helpful at a time when I was disoriented!" the traveler wrote.Two days later, another traveler at Hobby, for the first time, was struggling to add their TSA PreCheck number to their mobile boarding pass. Reyes noticed the passenger struggling to figure out how to update the information on her airline's app. "Gracie asked if she could help me. Not only did she answer my question, but she also helped me resolve my problem! I was so happy that she was there and that I didn't have to take off my shoes to go through the regular line! Gracie is really a gem at Hobby Airport!!!!!"Campbell praised Reyes' attentiveness and kindness, noting that she and Brown had been "feedback superstars" all week.Airports may run on schedules and logistics, but at the heart of it all are people—travelers and the employees who keep things moving. For Adrian Brown and Gracie Reyes, excellent service wasn't about doing their jobs; it was about paying attention, stepping up and making someone's day a little easier. And sometimes, that's what makes all the difference.Share your comments and compliments with us. Click here.

William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is growing. And if you’ve been through the terminal lately, you’ve seen the signs—literally. The images plastered along the temporary construction walls in the baggage claim area are more than just a barrier; they’re a promise. A promise that what’s coming is worth the wait.Houston Airports and Southwest Airlines are delivering the future of travel at Hobby Airport with a massive West Concourse expansion that will redefine the passenger experience. Seven new gates. More seating. More concessions. More art. Behind the scenes, a cutting-edge Leonardo baggage handling system will streamline operations, ensuring a seamless start—or end—to every journey.A Terminal Built for the FutureConstruction crews are already deep into the work. The detention pond, enabling projects, demolition, and utility installation are complete. Next up: installing the foundation, a crucial step toward bringing the new West Concourse to life.While the concourse itself takes shape, Hobby passengers will soon see another upgrade—completely renovated restrooms, set to open this summer in the baggage claim area.More Than an Expansion—An ExperienceA terminal isn’t just a place to catch a flight. It’s a space to unwind, refuel and be inspired. That’s why the West Concourse expansion isn’t just about adding gates—it’s about creating an environment that reflects Houston’s energy.Expect more food, more shopping and more places to relax. But beyond that, expect art. From ceiling-mounted installations to wall-mounted and freestanding pieces, the concourse will showcase Houston’s vibrant artistic culture, transforming the terminal into an immersive experience.What’s Next?Hobby Airport’s expansion is moving forward. The work happening now lays the foundation for an airport that is bigger, brighter and better than ever before. So, the next time you pass those dust walls, know that they aren’t just covering construction. They’re covering progress. And soon, you’ll see what’s been building behind them.