Top 5 Busiest Airports in Texas and Their Flight Delay and Cancellation Rates

Summer is a prime time for travel, but it can come with its share of delays and cancellations. Texas has some of the busiest airports in the country, and here’s a look at the top 5 along with their flight delay and cancellation statistics.

Top 5 Busiest Airports in Texas

According to Cirium, the busiest airports in Texas are:

1. Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
2. Dallas Love Field (DAL)
3. Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
4. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
5. Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

Flight Delays and Cancellations at Texas’ Top Airports (2024)

Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)

• 23.74% of flights delayed
• 1,187 flights canceled
• 74.34% on-time rate
• 1.65% cancellation rate

Dallas Love Field (DAL)

• 19.03% of flights delayed
• 302 flights canceled
• 79.09% on-time rate
• 1.69% cancellation rate

Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH)

• 17.98% of flights delayed
• 676 flights canceled
• 79.18% on-time rate
• 2.51% cancellation rate

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

• 22.05% of flights delayed
• 275 flights canceled
• 76.33% on-time rate
• 1.39% cancellation rate

Houston William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

• 18.81% of flights delayed
• 152 flights canceled
• 79.82% on-time rate
• 1.11% cancellation rate

What to Do If Your Flight Is Delayed or Canceled

In April 2024, the Department of Transportation introduced new protections for air travelers, including automatic refunds for canceled flights and, in some cases, for flight delays. Airlines have six months to implement these regulations.

If your flight is canceled or delayed:

1. Use the Airline’s App: Most apps allow free rebooking with your reservation code. It’s also wise to get in line to speak with an agent and call the airline simultaneously.

2. Book a Hotel: Consider booking a hotel if you need to stay overnight.

3. Seek Refunds: Federal law entitles you to a cash refund if your flight is canceled. Be cautious of accepting travel credits, as they might have restrictions. Soon, airlines will be required to issue refunds within seven business days if you decline a travel credit.

Tips to Avoid Travel Delays

Avoid packing prohibited items that can cause delays at airport security. The TSA advises against bringing:

• Oversized containers for liquids, aerosols, and gels (e.g., sunblock, drinks)
• Self-defense tools, which are sometimes found on keychains
• Certain household items and tools, like hammers and mallets
• Firearms and replicas of firearms

For a full list of prohibited items, visit the TSA website under the “What can I bring?” tab.