Governor Abbott and U.S. Travel CEO Discuss Texas Tourism’s Role in Boosting the State’s Economy

Published on October 25, 2024

Governor Greg Abbott recently joined Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of U.S. Travel, for a conversation on the powerful impact of Texas’s travel and tourism industry at a gathering at American Airlines Headquarters in Fort Worth. This event, attended by numerous regional business leaders and media, focused on the sector’s significant contributions to the Texas economy.

Travel is much more than just moving from one place to another; it drives economic growth and reaches nearly every industry and community across America. In 2023, travel spending generated an impressive $2.8 trillion nationally, providing employment for over 15 million Americans. In Texas alone, visitors spent $94.8 billion last year, sustaining 1.3 million jobs statewide.

“Tourism is an important part of the Texas economic juggernaut. Over the last 10 years, hotel demand and air capacity have increased,” Governor Abbott said. “People love to see all that Texas has to offer, and tourism is a big part of what has made Texas so successful.”

During the discussion, Governor Abbott emphasized Texas’s thriving travel industry, spotlighting major events like the Red River Showdown and Austin City Limits Music Festival, which draw thousands of visitors and contribute to local economies across the state. He also highlighted the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches set for AT&T Stadium in Arlington and NRG Stadium in Houston, noting Texas’s strong track record of hosting large-scale sporting events and its readiness to welcome fans from around the world for this global event.

Freeman noted the value of convening government officials and business leaders to discuss the industry’s impact. “Travel makes an incredible contribution to the Texas economy and its workforce. Our discussion with Governor Abbott was an outstanding opportunity to highlight how travel is vital to practically every industry sector,” Freeman said. 

Governor Abbott has long championed travel, and we look forward to collaborating further to support tourism growth in Texas and nationwide. We extend our appreciation to American Airlines for partnering with us to host this insightful event.