All Houston airports to close ahead of arctic front
HOUSTON — All Houston airports will close Tuesday due to the winter storm expected in the area, officials said Sunday.
An arctic front with wintry precipitation is expected to move into the area overnight Monday.
The Houston Airport System said in a news release that flights at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, William P. Hobby Airport and Ellington Airport will be suspended beginning at 12 a.m. Tuesday.
Officials did not say when the airports would resume flight operations.
"There will be no departing or arriving flights," the statement read, adding, "our dedicated teams will remain on-site 24-7, working diligently to prepare for a swift and safe return to normal operations when weather permits."
Airport officials said Houston airports will deploy snowplows and other heavy machinery to clear airfields and "prepare for a safe return to operations as soon as weather conditions allow."
Officials urged travelers not to attempt to drive to the airports on Tuesday.
What if I am traveling?
Anyone who is flying to or from, or connecting through, Houston airports should check with their airlines for making changes to their tickets.
United Airlines, the largest airline at Bush Intercontinental, said in a statement to CBS News Texas:
"We're working with our customers who are impacted by the planned airport closures in Houston and have waivers in place for cities that are preparing for winter weather. Customers should visit united.com to check their flight status and view the latest information. We encourage travelers to download the United app and use our Agent on Demand tool, which enables them to bypass a line to speak with agents and get assistance via text, FaceTime or phone call."
Anyone who booked a ticket to or from one of two dozen airports across the Southeast on or before Jan. 15 can reschedule without paying a change fee or fare difference.
Dallas-based Southwest Airlines, which has the largest presence at Hobby Airport, is also offering travel waivers. Travelers who cannot use their tickets may be eligible for refunds.
Southwest said in a statement to CBS News Texas:
Our Operational Planners are keeping an eye on the winter storm and proactively making adjustments to the schedule based on forecasted weather conditions and infrastructure constraints, particularly in the Houston-Galveston area and Central Texas. We encourage Customers to visit Southwest.com review the latest travel advisory, which includes information about changing or canceling travel plans.
