One of the very first things I learned when I moved to Amarillo, is that you don't go anywhere in the country without going to Dallas first. Most Amarillo flights, whether you are coming or going, all route through either DFW or Love Field. And while yes there are a few direct flights offered, that is a very slim number. However, starting in the new year, there is some good news if you travel to Houston.

Southwest Airlines has announced that they are expanding their Sunday only direct flights between Amarillo Rick Husband International Airport and Houston Hobby International Airport. The new service will begin April 14, 2020 and will include flights Sunday-Friday. The Sunday only service started just back in October and has been very popular.

 

“This is phenomenal news for Amarillo and for Southwest Airlines,” said Amarillo Mayor Ginger Nelson. “Our city is committed to expanding travel options for Panhandle businesses, and Southwest Airlines is committed to listening to customers and meeting customer needs. This new service is a direct result of those commitments.”

 

“The expanded flight options from Amarillo is a direct result of listening to travelers in the Panhandle and better understanding their needs and where they need to go,” said Julian Gelvez Hinestroza, Southwest’s Manager of Network Planning, “Southwest is committed to connecting people to what’s important in their lives and building on our decades-long partnership with the City of Amarillo.”

 

“What an exciting time for Amarillo. We truly can’t thank Southwest Airlines enough for their support and partnership, as well as the entire Taking Flight - Amarillo Team for their continued hard work in expanding air travel options in and out of Amarillo’s Rick Husband International Airport,” said Gary Molberg, Amarillo Chamber President. “With a tremendous amount of men and women making calls on Amarillo’s medical community, this is a fantastic service for our hospitals, doctors, hotels and restaurants.”

Southwest has been working with Amarillo to add more flight options to simplify the flying experience for residents and travelers.Southwest currently offers nonstop and same plane service to Dallas Love Field, Las Vegas, Houston Hobby International Airport, and Austin Bergstrom International Airport. In April, the carrier began one-stop, no change of plane service, between Amarillo and Austin.

More From Mix 94.1