Alexandria, La. (5/22/2026) – Alexandria International Airport celebrated the return of United Airlines service to Houston on Thursday with a gate-side event welcoming passengers and community leaders back to the route.
The new United Express service, operated by SkyWest Airlines, now provides twice-daily nonstop flights between Alexandria International Airport (AEX) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston.
Nearly 100 people attended the celebration at the airport terminal. Guests greeted the first arriving passengers from Houston while also sending off the first departing flight from Alexandria.
Meanwhile, the England Airpark Fire Department honored both flights with water cannon salutes outside the terminal.
Airport leaders said the return of the Houston route addresses a major need for both business and leisure travelers across Central Louisiana.
“The return of United service to Houston is a major milestone for AEX and a direct response to the needs of our business and leisure travelers,” said England Economic and Industrial Development District Executive Director Ralph Hennessy.
Hennessy added that airline investment strengthens the region’s economic position through tourism, business growth, and job creation.
In addition, airport officials believe the restored route improves Central Louisiana’s ability to compete for future economic opportunities.
SkyWest Airlines officials also emphasized the importance of reconnecting Alexandria travelers to United’s larger global network.
“We’re excited to bring this new United Express service to Alexandria,” said Cody Thomas, Managing Director of Market Development at SkyWest Airlines.
Thomas said the direct Houston connection gives travelers easier access to hundreds of destinations worldwide through United Airlines.
The Houston route restores one of the region’s key air travel connections. Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport serves as one of United Airlines’ largest hubs.
As a result, travelers from Central Louisiana now have expanded access to domestic and international destinations through a single connection.
Customers can now book flights from Alexandria to Houston through united.com or by calling United reservations.
United MileagePlus members can also earn loyalty rewards on flights connected to the route.
Alexandria International Airport operates under the England Economic and Industrial Development District, which oversees England Airpark.
The Airpark includes approximately 4,000 acres and supports aviation, manufacturing, transportation, education, and engineering industries throughout the region.
Photo credit: England Airpark / Alexandria International Airport
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