United Airlines Resumes Direct Daily Flights From Alexandria To Houston, Offering New Opportunities For Business And Leisure Travel Starting May 2026

Written By: Mon Talukdar

Mon Talukdar

Driven by a keen interest in travel journalism, I am building my career by reporting on one of the world's fastest-changing industries. At Travel And Tour World, I write about aviation, tourism, hospitality, destination marketing, and major developments influencing global travel. My work focuses on turning complex industry updates into clear, engaging stories that are both informative and relevant. I am committed to factual reporting, careful research, and delivering meaningful insights that help readers stay connected with the latest trends and transformations across the travel sector.

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November 5, 2025 11:04 AM |

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United Airlines is set to resume direct daily flights from Alexandria International Airport (AEX) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, starting in May 2026. This renewed service will provide travelers with enhanced access to one of the country’s largest transportation hubs, offering new opportunities for both business and leisure travel. With two daily flights, the route will facilitate greater connectivity, making it easier for local professionals to attend meetings, and for tourists to explore Houston and beyond. This development not only strengthens Alexandria’s position as a key regional airport but also contributes to the local economy by drawing more business, tourism, and investment to the area.

Travelers flying out of Alexandria International Airport (AEX) will soon have more choices as United Airlines resumes service to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, in May 2026. The airline, partnering with SkyWest Airlines, will offer daily flights to Houston, boosting connectivity for the region’s travelers.

United Airlines will operate two daily flights from AEX to Houston. The first flight will depart at 5:30 a.m., and the second will leave at 6:00 p.m. For those returning from Houston, the flights are scheduled for 5:20 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. The schedule offers flexibility, especially for business travelers, who can now leave Alexandria in the morning, attend to work in Houston, and return the same evening.

This new service comes with the help of a $1 million grant from the Department of Transportation, along with a matching contribution from the Central Louisiana Community Foundation. These funds will assist in covering costs between AEX and the airlines involved, making the new route financially feasible.

The return of United Airlines to Alexandria has been eagerly awaited by residents. After United’s departure from AEX in 2022, many in the community regularly inquired about when the airline would return. This renewed service is a significant milestone, as United Airlines is a popular carrier among local travelers. The return of United is expected to enhance the region’s connectivity, making it easier for business professionals, military families, and tourists to travel to and from Alexandria.

The new Houston connection will not only strengthen business travel but will also benefit tourism and regional commerce. Travelers can now easily connect to other flights at Houston’s major airport hub, which serves as a gateway to a wide range of international and domestic destinations. This added connectivity means Alexandria travelers can reach more destinations without the hassle of driving hours to a larger airport or dealing with city traffic.

Currently, Delta and American Airlines already operate flights from AEX to major hubs, including Atlanta and Dallas. With the addition of Houston, AEX will offer a third major hub, expanding options for local travelers and making the airport more competitive. This added convenience is especially important for those traveling for business, as well as tourists visiting the region.

The increased flight options will likely attract more business travelers to the region, generating more spending at local businesses, such as hotels and restaurants. The expansion of flight routes also benefits the community by raising the profile of AEX and positioning it as a more attractive choice for companies looking to invest in the region.

Local leaders believe the addition of United Airlines’ service will make Alexandria a more desirable location for business and tourism. The convenience of direct flights to Houston will appeal to both business and leisure travelers. It also provides a valuable connection for those visiting family and friends in the Houston area.

This new service is expected to improve the quality of life for Alexandria residents. Many locals prefer flying from AEX because of the convenience it offers, avoiding the long drives and city traffic associated with larger airports. In addition, flying locally allows travelers to begin their vacations immediately, without the added stress of extended travel times.

Each new flight route from AEX helps the airport become more connected to the world, making the city more competitive as a travel and business destination. The expansion of air services at AEX is a crucial part of the region’s efforts to attract more visitors and new residents, which, in turn, supports local economies and industries.

SkyWest Airlines has been a key partner in facilitating the return of United Airlines to Alexandria. As the primary carrier on this new route, SkyWest plays an essential role in connecting United to AEX, ensuring that the new flights run smoothly and efficiently.

United Airlines suspended its service to AEX and other markets in 2022 due to a pilot shortage, affecting its operations nationwide. Originally, the airline had planned to resume service to Alexandria in 2025, but the timeline has been advanced to May 2026. This earlier return to AEX is a welcome development for local travelers, who will benefit from the increased convenience and additional flight options that United Airlines provides.

With United Airlines’ return to Alexandria, the city will once again have access to a key transportation link. This new route to Houston provides an important opportunity for regional growth and access, connecting travelers to United’s global network and offering better access to more destinations across the United States and beyond.

United Airlines will resume direct daily flights from Alexandria to Houston starting in May 2026, offering travelers enhanced access to a major hub. This new service provides vital opportunities for business professionals and tourists, boosting regional connectivity and economic growth.

This expansion of service not only improves travel convenience but also highlights the region’s appeal to businesses looking for a more connected and competitive location. United Airlines’ return to Alexandria is a testament to the growing demand for more air service options in Central Louisiana, and it sets the stage for future growth and development at AEX. The new Houston route marks the beginning of a new chapter for the airport, as it continues to evolve as a critical transportation hub for the region.