When Houston’s second largest airport required expansion and renovation of its circa-1950 terminal, officials concluded that the ultimate need was to virtually replace the airport’s terminal and operational areas while maintaining continuous uninterrupted operations.

As prime designer, LAN recognized a significant project challenge in both adding a new 25-gate central concourse and easing concerns of Hobby’s multiple airline tenants, concessionaires and stakeholders.

The most pressing issue was development of a phased temporary and permanent relocation plan for all carriers throughout the course of the project. Initial focused was on facility condition reports to establish and verify the airport’s anticipated needs and appropriate actions. This resulted in a complex phasing implementation plan to improve construction without disrupting airport operations.

Airport authority, tenant and stakeholder additional goals and requirements substantially expanded the project’s scope to include more existing terminal gates and a new 12-gate east concourse. Apron expansions, taxiway relocations, relocation of a very high frequency omnidirectional range facility (VOR) to the parking garage roof, renovation of ticketing and baggage claim facilities and airline tenant improvement packages as well as retail concessions design and standards packages expanded the initial $60 million project scope to $270 million.

Upon completion, the existing 440,000 SF terminal was transformed into a 640,000 SF regional airport that will make the City of Houston and Southwest Airlines ready for continued and future outstanding air-passenger service.

Houston Hobby Airport’s tenants and passengers have commented that the modernization and redevelopment did not disturb passengers’ experience and are sure it will make the popular airport even better.