Alexandria International Airport (AEX) hosted a gate-site celebration at the terminal to mark the return of United Airlines service to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston. The new, twice-a-day, nonstop United Express flights, operated by SkyWest Airlines, provide increased connections and access for travelers.

Nearly 100 attendees gathered to greet the first arriving passengers from Houston, hear from airport and airline executives and community stakeholders, and bid farewell to the first departing passengers. The England Airpark Fire Department provided water cannon salutes for both flights.

“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,” stated England Economic and Industrial Development District Executive Director Ralph Hennessy. “When an airline invests in our community, it enhances our economic advantage through business expansion, job creation, and tourism, allowing us to compete on a larger stage. We are proud to partner with SkyWest and United to restore this vital connection to our region.”

“We’re excited to bring this new United Express service to Alexandria,” said Cody Thomas, Managing Director of Market Development at SkyWest Airlines. “Having direct access to Houston will make it simple and convenient for travelers to connect to hundreds of destinations worldwide on United’s global network.”

Customers may book flights from AEX to IAH at united.com or by calling United reservations at 800.UNITED.1 (800-864-8331). United’s MileagePlus® loyalty program members can earn rewards for flights.