The 2023 passenger total surpasses the record set in 2019 and confirms that Houston’s airports have officially recovered from the global COVID-19 pandemic.
HOUSTON – Houston Airports welcomed 60.1 million passengers in 2023, according to air service data. The total combines passenger counts at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Houston Airports last set a passenger record in 2019, when the airport system welcomed 59.7 million passengers before the global COVID-19 pandemic crippled the aviation industry.
In 2023, Houston Airports welcomed six million more passengers than it did in 2022 and nearly 370,000 more passengers than it did in 2019.
A breakdown of 2023 passenger numbers:
- 46.1 million total passengers at Bush Airport
- 14 million total passengers at Hobby Airport
- 47.6 million total domestic passengers at Bush and Hobby airports
- 12.5 million total international passengers at Bush and Hobby airports
"We are thrilled to celebrate the record-setting passenger total at Houston Airports in 2023 and we thank each and every passenger for choosing our airports as part of their flight plans,” said Mario Diaz, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “Houston Airports is committed to connecting the people, businesses, cultures and economies of the world to Houston, while serving as a 5-Star air service gateway to the region. As we continue to grow and enhance our airport’s infrastructure, we are committed to ensuring our passengers have the best possible experience from curb to gate. This accomplishment is a testament to the collaborative efforts of our team and the strong support from the community."
In 2023, Houston Airports saw growth in these international markets:
- 2.5 million passengers connected to Mexico, up 27% from 2019.
- 74,483 passengers connected to Australia/New Zealand, up 24% from 2019.
- 232,811 passengers connected to the Middle East, up 7% from 2019.
Other History-Making Moments of 2023
- Houston Airports became the first-ever recipient of ‘World’s Best’ Art in the Airport Award
- Hobby Airport continues to be the first and only 5-Star Skytrax airport in North America
- Hobby Airport voted 'Most Enjoyable Airport in North America' by passengers
- Hobby Airport hosted its first-ever wedding at the interfaith chapel
- Houston Airports set travel records during Spring Break, July 4th, Labor Day and Thanksgiving
About Houston Airports | Houston Airports is the City of Houston’s Department of Aviation. Comprised of George Bush Intercontinental Airport, IAH, William P. Hobby Airport, HOU, and Ellington Airport/Houston Spaceport, EFD, Houston Airports served 60.1 million passengers in 2023. Houston Airports positions Houston as the international passenger and cargo gateway to the South-Central United States and as a primary gateway to Latin America.