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Houston leaders have given the green light for a $250 million construction project at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). The expansion project will add seven new gates, an expanded and renovated baggage handling system, a renovated baggage claim area, and an overhead canopy along the departures curb. The investment is part of an ongoing effort to enhance the passenger experience and meet the growing demand for air service in the area.
Mayor Sylvester Turner expressed his excitement about the expansion, stating that with the increase in business and leisure travel, passengers deserve a first-class experience. HOU is currently the first and only 5-Star Skytrax airport in North America.
The Houston Airports System (HAS) plans to request an additional $200 million in funding, bringing the total investment to $470 million. Construction is set to begin in 2024 and is expected to be completed over the next two years.
The decision to approve the expansion project was driven by the higher demand for air service at HOU. Southwest Airlines holds over 90% of the passenger market share at the airport, making it a crucial hub for the airline. The project will not only benefit passengers but also contribute to the economic growth of the city, as Southwest Airlines employs 5,000 people in Houston, with a majority of the workforce based at HOU.
Overall, the approval of the $250 million construction project at Hobby Airport reflects the commitment of Houston leaders to enhance the city's air travel infrastructure and provide passengers with a world-class experience. With the expansion, HOU aims to accommodate more flights to more destinations and maintain its positive momentum as a key air gateway for the region.