Houston Has Two Major Airports — Here’s What You Need to Know 

If you’re flying into Houston, you’ll likely land at one of two airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) or William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Both serve the Houston metro area, but they’re very different in terms of size, location, airlines, and how you get into the city. 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know so you can choose the right airport — and know exactly how to get from it to your final destination. 

IAH — George Bush Intercontinental Airport 

Location and Size 

IAH is located 23 miles north of Downtown Houston near the Hardy Toll Road and Beltway 8. It’s the larger of the two airports and one of the busiest in the United States, handling over 40 million passengers per year. IAH has five terminals (A, B, C, D, E) connected by an underground train. 

Airlines at IAH 

IAH is United Airlines’ second-largest hub. It serves virtually every major US city and has extensive international routes to Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Airlines at IAH include United, Delta, American, Air Canada, Lufthansa, British Airways, Emirates, and many more. 

How Far is IAH from Downtown Houston? 

IAH is approximately 23 miles from Downtown Houston. By taxi, the journey takes 25–40 minutes depending on traffic. During rush hour (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM weekdays), budget 45–60 minutes. The taxi fare from IAH to Downtown Houston starts from $50 with The Houston Taxi. 

HOU — William P. Hobby Airport 

Location and Size 

HOU is located 10 miles south of Downtown Houston, making it significantly closer to the city center than IAH. It’s a smaller, single-terminal airport that’s generally easier and faster to navigate. 

Airlines at HOU 

HOU is primarily a Southwest Airlines hub. Southwest operates the majority of flights from HOU, covering most major US cities. Other airlines at HOU include Delta, American, and a few international carriers serving Mexican and Caribbean destinations. 

How Far is HOU from Downtown Houston? 

HOU is approximately 10 miles from Downtown Houston — less than half the distance of IAH. Taxi time is typically 15–25 minutes in normal traffic. The taxi fare from HOU to Downtown Houston starts from $35 with The Houston Taxi. 

IAH vs HOU: Side-by-Side Comparison 

Distance from Downtown: IAH is 23 miles vs HOU at 10 miles 

Taxi fare to Downtown: IAH starts at $50 vs HOU starts at $35 

Taxi time to Downtown: IAH is 25–40 min vs HOU is 15–25 min 

International flights: IAH has extensive international routes, HOU has limited 

Primary airline: IAH is United Airlines hub, HOU is Southwest Airlines hub 

Terminal count: IAH has 5 terminals, HOU has 1 terminal 

Ease of navigation: IAH is more complex, HOU is simpler and faster 

Galveston distance: IAH is 75 miles, HOU is 55 miles 

Which Airport is Better for Galveston Cruise Passengers? 

If you’re heading to the Galveston cruise port, HOU is the better choice — it’s about 20 miles closer to Galveston (55 miles vs 75 miles from IAH). A taxi from HOU to Galveston typically costs $20–30 less than from IAH. 

However, if your only available flight comes into IAH, don’t worry — The Houston Taxi offers dedicated shuttle service from both airports to all Galveston cruise terminals. 

💡 PRO TIP 

Book your Galveston cruise shuttle at least 48 hours in advance. Sunday mornings are especially busy as multiple cruise ships depart simultaneously. 

Which Airport is Better for Business Travelers? 

For business travelers staying in the Energy Corridor, Westchase, or Downtown Houston, HOU’s proximity makes it a faster option. However, if you need international connections or are flying on United, IAH is your airport. 

Getting From IAH or HOU to Your Hotel 

The fastest and most reliable way to get from either Houston airport to your hotel is a pre-booked private taxi. Unlike rideshare apps, a pre-booked taxi means your driver is already waiting when you exit baggage claim — no app hunting, no surge pricing, no waiting in queue. 

Ready to Book Your Houston Taxi? 

Call or WhatsApp: +1 (832) 786-9934  |  thehoustontaxi.com 

Fixed prices · No surge · 24/7 Available · Book in 60 seconds