Houston’s Hobby Airport has been forced to close its runways for the fourth time in three months for repairs. Today’s closure was first reported at 4:03p CT with all inbound flights currently being held at their origin until 5:00p CT. Thanks to reader Eric Yengst for bringing it to my attention.
The runway was initially damaged back in May due to a lightning strike which caused a massive hole in the surface of Runway 13R/31L near where it crosses Runway 4/22.
Our maintenance crews are working tirelessly to fix the lightning strike damage and get the runway back in service.
— Hobby Airport (@HobbyAirport) May 13, 2024
Before arriving at the airport, we ask passengers to check with their airline for the latest flight status updates. Weather related delays will continue tonight. pic.twitter.com/dcxqsPYzYa
Since then, the runway had to be closed twice on July 10th and July 15th with today marking the fourth time, and third time in 20 days, that airport operations have come to a standstill due to lingering effects from the damage.
While a runway closure affects all airlines, this will impact Southwest the most. The carrier is by far the largest airline at Houston Hobby with over 90% of all passenger traffic. The airport is also a Focus City for the Dallas based carrier so this will likely have a major impact on passengers connecting through the airport this afternoon and evening.
The airport released the following statement on Twitter/X shortly after we first learned about the closure.
Runway 13R/31L is closed for an emergency repair, temporarily pausing all arriving and departing flights.
— Hobby Airport (@HobbyAirport) July 30, 2024
We appreciate your patience as our maintenance team works to fix the runway as soon as possible. For the status of your flight, contact your airline.
Updates to follow. pic.twitter.com/E1OVDIPvBc
Be sure to check with your airline on the status of any flights to, from, or through Houston Hobby Airport this afternoon.
Summary
Houston Hobby Airport has been forced to close runways to arriving and departing traffic due to damage on Runway 13R/31L. This is the fourth time in three months, and third time in the last three weeks, that the airport has had to halt operations due to the damage. The closure and subsequent delays are likely to have an impact on passengers, especially those flying with Southwest.
