Last October 31st, it was trick-or-treat at Alexandria International Airport – but on that day, it was all treats as it was announced that United Airlines would be returning to AEX in 2026. Fast forward 6+ months and the celebration date is set. This Thursday, May 21, at 2:30pm, the inaugural flight between Alexandria International Airport (AEX) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will mark an important milestone for connectivity across Central Louisiana.
The route was suspended in 2022 due in part to a nationwide pilot shortage, leaving Central Louisiana without a direct United connection. The new service will operate under United Express, powered by SkyWest Airlines, providing direct access to Houston’s global network.
Beginning this Thursday, United Express will offer two daily flights between Alexandria and Houston. Flights are now available for booking at united.com or by calling 800-864-8331.
Departures from AEX: 5:30 AM and 6:00 PM
Return Flights from Houston: 1:20 PM and 7:00 PM
This schedule gives travelers the freedom to make same-day business trips or connect to hundreds of destinations across the U.S. and abroad and is a convenient alternative to driving to Lafayette or even Dallas.
Ralph Hennessy, Executive Director of AEX, says United is starting slow in their return. “They’re starting out, baby steps, right? You’ve got to crawl before you can walk,” Hennessy said. “It’s two flights a day, and then we envision going to three and possibly four.”
Bringing United back to Cenla has been at the top of the list for Hennessy since he first came to England Airpark in December 2022. Hennessy said this move will provide another avenue for people to come and go.
“There are a number of people that live in this area that drive to Houston to do work and then come back. It’s also going to allow people that are in Houston to fly here to do business and go back,” he said. “It’s going to help spur some interest back in the community.”
So Welcome Back United, and welcome back to convenient, same day, non-stop flights to and from Houston, a huge benefit for Cenla’s business travelers, the military and tourists alike.