Houston Airports is home to the World's Best Airport Art program, the first and only 5-Star Skytrax airport in North America. But there's something far more rewarding than any award – the genuine appreciation from the very people we serve: our passengers.
Let's face it, accolades are awesome. Here at Houston Airports, we can't deny the thrill of William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) being named the only 5-Star Airport in North America for three years running, or holding on to the World’s Best Airport Art Program award for two consecutive years. Those gold plaques are shiny, and the global recognition is a point of pride. But there's something far more rewarding than any award – it's the genuine appreciation from the very people we serve: our passengers.
2023 wasn't without its turbulence. Transformations were underway at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Hobby Airport. Yet, amidst the construction and change, both locations soared.
Hobby Airport, while revamping its culinary scene, secured its title as Best Regional Airport in North America for a remarkable three years straight at the Skytrax World Airport Awards. Passengers expect world-class customer service, even during the construction of new local concepts, and without skipping a beat, Hobby Airport delivers. The honor bestowed on Hobby by its passengers is a testament to the tireless efforts of our incredible employees, who ensured a diverse range of delicious options to enhance every travel experience. If Best Regional Airport in North America wasn’t enough, the Houston Airports Concessions team won the AX 2024 Customer Service Award for creating a culture of exemplary customer service by training concessions staff and communicating initiatives at Hobby Airport. A world-class experience appreciated by passengers.
Meanwhile, Bush Airport maintained its prestigious 4-Star Skytrax rating for the seventh year in a row, even with a new international terminal under construction. Skytrax wasn't just impressed by the efficiency but by the vibrant spirit of the airport – the art program and the local Texan flavors alongside international brands, all showcasing the best of Houston. These achievements, despite the challenges of building a fresh and modern international terminal within a bustling airport, underscore one core principle: at Houston Airports, passenger satisfaction is the ultimate priority.
The record-breaking 60.1 million passengers who traveled through our airports in 2023 are a clear sign that our commitment to exceptional customer service is paying off. As Chief Terminal Management and Administration Officer, Liliana Rambo said, "We're dedicated to providing exceptional experiences and maintaining that signature Houston-friendly hospitality for everyone who walks through our doors."
But the real magic behind the success of Houston Airports isn't awards or statistics – it's the 1,200 dedicated employees who make it all happen. From the frontline staff greeting passengers with a smile to the behind-the-scenes teams keeping everything running smoothly, everyone contributes to the incredible experience we offer.
Our recent recognition at the 2024 World Airport Awards is another feather in our cap. Winning Best Airport Art Program for the second consecutive year highlights our dedication to creating a world-class experience that celebrates the joy of travel. As Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation, said, "We're all about curating an experience that captures the magic of flight."
Looking ahead, Houston Airports remains laser-focused on being a global leader in aviation. We'll continue delivering exceptional experiences that reflect the warmth, hospitality, and cultural richness of our amazing city. Innovation and passenger-centric initiatives are at the heart of everything we do, ensuring every journey through our airports is memorable and positive, no matter what challenges might arise. The relentless spirit, teamwork and dedication of our employees are the fuel that propels us forward, and for that, we are incredibly grateful. Here at Houston Airports, our passengers are our true north star, and our people are the wings that take us to new heights.