Flying Out of Houston: A Guide to the Best Airlines and Routes

Houston, Texas, is one of the largest and busiest cities in the United States, and its two main airports—George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)—serve as crucial hubs for both domestic and international travel. Whether you’re flying for business or leisure, knowing which airlines operate from Houston and the best routes to take can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here’s a guide to the best airlines and routes flying out of Houston. https://flightsfromhouston.com/

1. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

IAH, located about 23 miles north of downtown Houston, is the city’s primary international airport and the busiest airport in Texas. It offers a wide range of flights, serving over 180 destinations worldwide. Major airlines like United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Lufthansa operate from IAH, making it a prime airport for international and domestic travel.

United Airlines: A Dominant Carrier at IAH

United Airlines has a significant presence at IAH, and it’s often the airline of choice for travelers flying internationally or domestically from Houston. United offers direct flights to key U.S. cities such as New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, and its global network extends to destinations in Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

For travelers heading to Europe, United offers non-stop flights to cities like Frankfurt, London, and Paris. Meanwhile, their extensive network to Central and South America connects Houston to major hubs like Mexico City, Panama City, and Sao Paulo. United’s commitment to serving international and domestic routes makes it an attractive option for frequent flyers.

International Airlines at IAH

Several international carriers operate out of IAH, including Lufthansa, British Airways, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. Lufthansa connects Houston to major German cities like Frankfurt and Munich, making it an ideal choice for travelers heading to Europe. Qatar Airways and Emirates provide non-stop flights to Doha and Dubai, respectively, offering a luxurious flying experience with top-notch service and amenities.

Additionally, Air France operates direct flights to Paris, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a European getaway. With these international airlines, IAH provides a diverse range of routes for global travel, ensuring that passengers can reach destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond with ease.

2. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

While IAH dominates international travel, William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) is known for domestic flights, particularly those operated by Southwest Airlines. Located closer to downtown Houston, Hobby Airport is a popular choice for travelers seeking convenience and easy access to the city center.

Southwest Airlines: A Local Favorite

Southwest Airlines, known for its low fares and free checked bags, has a significant presence at Hobby Airport. It is the largest carrier at HOU, providing travelers with access to a variety of domestic routes. Popular destinations include cities like Dallas, Austin, Denver, and Las Vegas.

Southwest also offers international flights from Hobby to destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean, including Cancun, Cozumel, and San Juan. Whether you’re looking for a quick domestic getaway or an international vacation, Southwest Airlines at Hobby provides both affordable and convenient options.

Other Airlines at HOU

Though Southwest is the dominant carrier at Hobby, other airlines like Spirit Airlines and American Airlines also operate out of this airport. Spirit offers budget-friendly flights to cities like Orlando and Chicago, while American Airlines connects passengers to destinations across the U.S. and beyond.

3. Domestic Routes from Houston

Houston offers an extensive selection of domestic routes, making it easy for travelers to explore the United States. Both IAH and HOU offer direct flights to major cities across the country. Some of the most popular domestic routes include:

• New York City (IAH, HOU): Non-stop flights to New York are available from both IAH and HOU, making it an easy option for business and leisure travelers alike.
• Dallas/Fort Worth (IAH, HOU): Being close to the Texas border, Houston and Dallas are well-connected by multiple airlines, including Southwest, American Airlines, and United.
• Los Angeles (IAH): United Airlines and American Airlines operate non-stop flights to Los Angeles, a popular route for both business and entertainment.
• Las Vegas (IAH, HOU): Whether you’re heading to the casinos or looking for entertainment, Las Vegas is a top destination, served by both Southwest Airlines and United.

4. International Routes from Houston

Houston’s central location as a global hub makes it a prime departure point for international flights. In addition to European destinations, Houston offers easy access to Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Some key international routes include:

• London (IAH): United Airlines and British Airways both offer direct flights to London, making it a key destination for business travelers and vacationers alike.
• Mexico City (IAH): With strong cultural and business ties between Houston and Mexico, daily flights to Mexico City are offered by both United and Aeromexico.
• Dubai (IAH): Emirates operates non-stop flights to Dubai, providing travelers with convenient access to the Middle East.

Conclusion

Houston is a gateway to a world of travel possibilities, thanks to its two major airports and extensive airline networks. Whether you’re flying domestically with Southwest Airlines from Hobby or embarking on an international adventure with United Airlines or Lufthansa from IAH, Houston has a range of options to suit all kinds of travelers. With direct flights to cities across the United States and the world, Houston is not just a place to pass through, but a hub that connects you to your next great journey.