Houston Hobby Airport Passenger Traffic Drops Sharply in 2025, Raising Local Concerns

Houston’s Hobby Airport is experiencing one of Texas’ sharpest declines in airline passenger traffic this year, according to newly released state aviation data. The drop arrives as carriers adjust routes, business travel softens, and travelers face higher airfare costs across much of the region.

Analysts say the decline at the city’s smaller commercial airport stands out because several other major Texas airports, including Dallas–Fort Worth International and Austin–Bergstrom International, have reported steadier activity in early 2025.

Passenger Traffic Falls as Airlines Shift Strategy

Hobby, which is dominated by Southwest Airlines, has seen a year-over-year passenger drop that outpaces most Texas airports. While some of the decrease stems from seasonal trends, industry watchers note that airlines have been trimming schedules on routes with weaker demand. They have also been redirecting capacity to leisure-heavy markets that remain strong.

Local travel experts point to several contributing factors. Business travel continues to recover slowly, and many companies in Greater Houston are still cautious about nonessential trips. Additionally, shifting airline strategies have concentrated more service at Houston’s larger hub, George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Despite those challenges, Hobby remains a vital gateway for domestic travel. However, the new traffic numbers highlight how sensitive the airport is to airline scheduling decisions and broader economic shifts.

Why It Matters for Houston

A sustained decline in passenger volume could influence business growth near the airport and across adjacent travel sectors. Hotels, restaurants, rideshare drivers, and airport contractors rely heavily on consistent traveler activity.

• Lower traffic can reduce spending in surrounding neighborhoods.
• Fewer flights may limit options for business travelers.
• Regional employers may face disruptions if flight frequencies drop further.

Local business groups say the slowdown also raises concerns about how the city competes with fast‑growing airports in other Texas metros. While Houston remains one of the nation’s busiest air markets, future airline investments often follow the strongest demand trends.

What’s Next for Hobby Airport

Airport officials are monitoring the trend, and airlines typically adjust schedules quarterly. If demand picks up during peak spring and summer travel seasons, carriers could restore capacity and offset recent losses.

City leaders and tourism groups also continue to promote new events, conventions, and attractions designed to boost visitor traffic. They say a stronger regional economy will support more travel later in the year.

For now, travelers should expect some flight consolidation and possible schedule changes as airlines refine their 2025 plans.

This article is a summary of reporting by The Business Journals. Read the full story here.