Houston Airports Announces New United Airlines Service to Puerto Escondido

HOUSTON – Houston Airports continues to strengthen its status as a premier gateway to Latin America by announcing new United Airline service between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico (PXM).

Starting April 5, 2025, United will become the first and only airline to connect the United States with Puerto Escondido, which means “hidden port” in English. Puerto Escondido is widely considered a hotspot on Mexico’s Pacific coast and is known for its many beaches and exciting nightlife. This will reinforce Houston’s role as the main gateway to Latin America. The non-stop flight, once a week, throughout the year, will be operated by Mesa Airlines, a United Express partner, on Embraer 175 aircraft.

The route will begin approximately a year before Houston hosts the 2026 World Cup, further supporting the opportunity for Houston to serve as a home base for World Cup fans looking to attend games across North America.

“Adding Puerto Escondido to our growing list of international destinations is another win for Houston ahead of the 2026 World Cup,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire. We are improving the passenger experience, from new flights to airport infrastructure and parking, to create new business and tourism opportunities. As the main gateway to Latin America, Houston must continue to expand access, which will drive economic growth.”

With this new flight, United will serve 23 destinations in Mexico and 65 destinations in the broader Latin America and Caribbean region. An inaugural flight between Houston and Medellín, Colombia, is scheduled for November 13, 2024.

“United Airlines is proud to introduce this new route to Puerto Escondido, which not only enriches our network, but also strengthens Houston’s role as a vital link between the U.S. and Mexico. This service reflects our commitment to providing diverse options of travel for our customers and support the growing demand for leisure and business travel to this vibrant destination,” said Phil Griffith, vice president of airport operations, United Airlines, Houston hub.

Houston’s strategic position as a global hub means this new connection to Puerto Escondido opens doors for leisure and business travelers. Puerto Escondido, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife and growing popularity as a tourist destination, will attract visitors to Houston during its transit, while also providing local businesses with greater access to Mexico’s Pacific coast.

“This direct service benefits Houston in several ways,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation at Houston Airports. “This will boost our hospitality and tourism industries while creating new partnerships and economic exchanges between our city and Mexico. As an economic engine for our region, Houston Airports wants to ensure that Houston continues to be the first choice for travelers and businesses when looking at Latin America.”

With the addition of Puerto Escondido, Bush Airport will offer direct flights to 24 destinations in Mexico. Ten air carriers fly between Houston and Mexico through George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), ranking Houston’s airports among the top airports for connecting the U.S. and Mexico.