Houston Hobby Airport (HOU) Guide
Welcome to Houston HOU Airport, where you'll find a friendly atmosphere and convenient location just minutes from downtown Houston. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, our helpful guide has everything you need to know to make your trip as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Looking for flight status and tracking information, airline departure terminals and gate locations, parking options, terminal maps, or food and shopping directories? Our extensive guide has got you covered. We're here to help you get from your door to your gate with ease, so you can focus on enjoying your journey. For more comprehensive information about other major commercial airports, check out iFly's Airport Guide.
Helpful Tips
When to Arrive
When traveling through HOU, it is recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. The busiest times to avoid are weekdays during rush hour(6am-9am and 3pm-6pm), holidays, and peak travel seasons(summer and winter breaks).
Getting to the Airport
There are several ways to get to HOU Airport. If you are driving, the airport is conveniently located near Interstate 45 and State Highway 35. You can also take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation such as the METRO bus or light rail. For those who prefer to drive themselves, there are several parking options available including valet, covered parking, and economy parking.
Getting Oriented
To get oriented at the airport, use iFly.com's interactive airport maps. These maps provide detailed information about each terminal, gate locations, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. You can also use the maps to find your way to baggage claim, ground transportation, and parking areas.
Avoiding Delays
To avoid delays at Hobby Airport, make sure to check your flight status before leaving for the airport. You can do this by visiting the airport's website or downloading the airline's app. It is also recommended to pack light and avoid bringing prohibited items in your carry-on or checked luggage. Finally, be sure to follow all TSA guidelines and arrive at the security checkpoint prepared with your ID and boarding pass.
Security Wait Times
At Houston Hobby, TSA Security wait times can vary depending on the time of day and season. During peak travel times, such as holidays and weekends, wait times can be longer than usual. However, the airport has implemented measures to help reduce wait times, such as adding more TSA agents and utilizing advanced technology for security screenings. It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow enough time for check-in and security screening. You can check TSA Wait Times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.
Maps, Airlines & Amenities
Houston Hobby Airport (HOU) Terminals
Navigating HOU's Terminals
Houston Hobby Airport has two terminals: the Central Concourse and the Main Terminal. The Central Concourse has 24 gates and is primarily used by Southwest Airlines. The Main Terminal has 26 gates and is used by several major airlines including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and JetBlue Airways.
Getting around the airport is easy with clear signage and helpful staff members. If you need to transfer between terminals, there is a free shuttle service that runs every 5-7 minutes.
Whether you're looking for food, shopping, or other services, the airport has plenty of options. The Main Terminal has a variety of restaurants and cafes including Starbucks, Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, and Chick-fil-A. The Central Concourse also has several dining options such as Whataburger and Pappasito's Cantina. In addition, there are numerous shops, ATMs, and charging stations throughout the airport.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
At Houston HOU Airport, passengers can easily navigate between the Central Concourse and Main Terminal. The two terminals are connected by a covered walkway, which takes approximately 5-10 minutes to walk. There are also shuttle buses available to transport passengers between the terminals, which run every 5-10 minutes. The shuttle bus stop is located outside of baggage claim in the Main Terminal and outside of Gate 44 in the Central Concourse.
Overall, getting between the Central Concourse and Main Terminal at HOU is a quick and easy process. Passengers have the option to walk or take a shuttle bus, both of which are convenient and efficient modes of transportation.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Travelers passing through Houston HOU Airport can look forward to a diverse range of dining and shopping options. From seafood to burgers, Tex-Mex to sweet treats, and everything in between, there's something for everyone. Some of the top dining spots include Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Pappa's Burger. Meanwhile, shoppers can explore a range of stores, from Desigual to MAC Cosmetics, and even pick up some local produce at Shady Lane Marketplace. For more detailed information about the most popular restaurants, bars, and shops at HOU Airport, check out our food and shopping guide.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at the airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, click here.
Airport Hotels
Looking for a comfortable stay near the airport? We've got you covered! Our comprehensive guide offers a range of hotel options, each with unique amenities and services to cater to your needs. From hotels that provide free airport shuttles to those that offer fitness centers and on-site dining, we've got you covered. Whether you're in town for a business trip, in transit, or exploring the vibrant city, these hotels offer a mix of convenience, comfort, and quality service. Discover the best options for your travel needs and preferences with our William P. Hobby Airport Hotels guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At Hobby Airport, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the curbside of the Central Concourse and Main Terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles cannot be left unattended at any time. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting areas if they need to wait for their passengers.
The cell-phone waiting areas are located near the airport entrance, and drivers can park their vehicles for free for up to an hour while waiting for their passengers to arrive. Once the passengers have arrived and collected their luggage, they can call their driver to let them know that they are ready to be picked up. The driver can then proceed to the curbside to pick up their passengers.
Parking Facilities & Options
If you're flying out of Houston Hobby, you'll be happy to know that there are plenty of parking options available to you. The airport offers both covered and uncovered parking in their Central Concourse and Main Terminal garages, as well as in their Ecopark lot.
If you're looking for a more economical option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and often provide additional services such as car detailing and oil changes.
If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas located near the airport where you can park for free until your party is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in all of the airport's parking facilities, with designated spaces located near elevators and shuttle stops.
Get details about Houston Hobby Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Traveling to and from Houston HOU Airport is a breeze with a variety of ground transportation options available. For those who prefer to drive themselves, there are several car rental companies located at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These companies offer a range of vehicle options to suit your needs and budget.
If you prefer to take a taxi, there are designated taxi drop-off areas located outside of each terminal. Fares are metered and vary depending on your destination. It's always a good idea to confirm the fare with your driver before starting your journey.
Shared ride services like Uber and Lyft are also available at HOU. Pickup areas are located outside of each terminal, and fares are calculated based on distance and time. Note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and amount of luggage allowed in shared ride vehicles.
Airport shuttles are another convenient option for getting to and from the airport. These services typically operate on a fixed schedule and can be booked in advance or upon arrival. Pickup areas are located outside of each terminal, and fares vary depending on your destination.
If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, public transportation is available via the Houston METRO bus system. The 88 Airport Direct bus runs between the airport and downtown Houston, with stops at several popular destinations along the way. Fares are affordable and can be paid in cash or with a METRO Q® Fare Card.
Passenger Services
HOU Airport is a popular airport located in Houston, Texas. The airport is equipped with several passenger services that cater to the needs of travelers.
For passengers who need to stay connected while at the airport, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals. Lost and found services are also available at the airport to help passengers who have lost their belongings.
For families traveling with children, the airport has designated children's play areas located in the terminals. Additionally, special-needs services are also available for passengers who require assistance.
The airport also has banking services available for passengers who need to withdraw cash or access other banking services. Medical help is also available at the airport for passengers who may require medical attention.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is important to stay updated on the status of your flight departure. At Hobby Airport, there are several ways to check your flight status.
One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the in-airport Flight Information Display System (FIDS). These displays are located throughout the airport and provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Another convenient way to stay informed about your flight status is by downloading the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines offer a mobile app that allows passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications.
Passengers can also check their flight status by visiting the airline's website and entering their flight information. This will provide real-time updates on the status of the flight.
Finally, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Houston Hobby by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
Houston Hobby Airport, also known as William P. Hobby Airport, is a public airport located in Houston, Texas, United States. The airport serves as a focus city for Southwest Airlines and is the second busiest airport in Houston after George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
The airport has two terminals - the Central Concourse and the Main Terminal. The Central Concourse is home to Southwest Airlines and serves as the primary terminal for all domestic flights. The Main Terminal serves international flights and is home to airlines such as Delta Air Lines and American Airlines.
On average, Houston HOU Airport handles around 13,000 passengers daily and has an average of 260 daily flights. The airport serves over 60 destinations across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
The top airlines with the most daily flights at HOU are Southwest Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines. The top 5 destinations served by the airport are Dallas, Atlanta, Denver, Chicago, and Orlando.
In addition to Southwest Airlines, other airlines that use HOU Airport as a hub include JetBlue Airways and Sun Country Airlines.
Airport History
The airport, also known as William P. Hobby Airport, is an international airport located in Houston, Texas. The airport has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:
- 1927 - The airport was established as a private landing field by the W.T. Carter Lumber Company.
- 1937 - The City of Houston purchased the airport and renamed it Houston Municipal Airport.
- 1940s - The airport served as a training facility for the United States Army Air Forces during World War II.
- 1954 - The airport was renamed to honor William P. Hobby, a former Texas governor and lieutenant governor.
- 1967 - The airport's first terminal building was constructed.
- 1990s - The airport underwent major renovations and expansions, including the addition of a new terminal building.
- 2015 - Southwest Airlines, the airport's largest carrier, announced plans to expand its operations at Hobby Airport.
Today, Hobby Airport is a bustling airport that serves millions of passengers each year. It is a hub for Southwest Airlines and offers flights to destinations throughout the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
Airport Contact Info
- Houston Hobby Website
- Phone: 713-640-3000
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: 7800 Airport Blvd, Houston, TX 77061, United States