Jim Szczesniak, Houston Airports System (HAS)’s director of aviation, recently announced six new developments at this year’s Greater Houston Partnership’s State of the Airports event. New initiatives coming to HAS include AirsideDrive, a new insurance program designed to lower costs for qualified small businesses looking to enter the airport market; a nearly $500-million, seven-gate expansion that includes a new baggage system and covered walkway at William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) in collaboration with Southwest Airlines; and plans to expand the East Cargo area, redesign the pickup waiting area and bring faster Global Entry Processing to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Szczesniak added that IAH cargo handler Dnata Cargo USA has earned the International Air Transport Association’s CEIV Pharma certification for pharmaceutical-handling operations, providing the area’s pharmaceutical manufacturers and researchers a certified local partner for international shipping.
“Houston doesn’t stand still, and neither can its airports,” said Szczesniak. “We’re investing in the passenger experience while creating more opportunities for Houston businesses to grow with us. That means better airports for the people who use them and more economic opportunity for the city we serve.”
