Several airports serve the Gulf Coast region, offering a range of travel options — from major commercial hubs to smaller regional and general aviation airports. Whether you’re traveling for business, tourism, or beach getaways, the Gulf Coast has air travel solutions for every need.
Top 5 Gulf Coast Airports
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
- George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
- Tampa International Airport (TPA)
- Valley International Airport (HRL)
(You can click the image below to see it in full size)
1. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) – Louisiana
Pros:
- Major hub with international and domestic flights
- Brand-new terminal with modern amenities and dining
- Strong airline competition means frequent deals
- Good ground transportation options
Cons:
- Can be very busy and crowded
- Parking and car rental centers are offsite (shuttle required)
- Prone to delays during storms/hurricane season
Car Rental:
- Rental Center located off-airport (free shuttle)
- Companies: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty
Contact details:
- Address: 1 Terminal Dr, Kenner, LA 70062, United States
- Phone: +1 504-303-7500
- Website: https://flymsy.com/
- Rating: 4.2/5
2. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
Pros:
- Major hub for United Airlines
- Extensive international flight network
- Multiple terminals connected by subway and skyway
Cons:
- Large and complex — can be confusing for first-time travelers
- Security and immigration wait times can be long
Car Rental:
- Rental Car Center located on airport property (via shuttle)
- Companies: Advantage, Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Thrifty
Contact details:
- Address: 2800 N Terminal Rd, Houston, TX 77032
- Phone: +1 (281) 230-3100
- Website: fly2houston.com/iah
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.1/5 on Google)
3. Pensacola International Airport (PNS) – Florida
Pros:
- Good selection of nonstop flights to major U.S. hubs
- Clean, modern terminal with dining and shopping
- Convenient for Florida Panhandle and lower Alabama travelers
- Efficient security and check-in process
Cons:
- Limited international options
- Can get crowded during peak beach travel seasons
- Parking fees higher than some regional airports
Contact details:
- Address: 2430 Airport Blvd, Pensacola, FL 32504, United States
- Phone: +1 850-436-5000
- Website: https://flypensacola.com/
- Rating: 4.3/5
4. Tampa International Airport (TPA)
Pros:
- Extremely user-friendly layout
- Fast and efficient security process
- Many nonstop flights and expanding international service
- Clean, modern, and well-organized
Cons:
- Parking can be expensive
- Very busy during spring break and holidays
Car Rental:
- Consolidated Rental Car Center connected by SkyConnect train
- Companies: All major brands, including Sixt and Payless
Contact details:
- Address: 4100 George J Bean Pkwy, Tampa, FL 33607, United States
- Phone: +1 (813) 870-8700
- Website: tampaairport.com
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.6/5 on Google – one of the highest-rated major airports in the U.S.)
5. Valley International Airport (HRL)
Pros:
- Quick and easy check-in and security
- Serves the Rio Grande Valley with good regional connections
- Close to South Padre Island (about 40 miles)
Cons:
- Limited airlines and destinations
- Fewer amenities compared to larger airports
Car Rental:
- Onsite counters in terminal
- Companies: Enterprise, Avis, Budget, Hertz, National
Contact details:
- Location: 3002 Heritage Way, Harlingen, TX 78550
- Phone: +1 (956) 430-8600
- Website: flythevalley.com
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5 on Google)
Gulf Coast Airports – Summary Table
| Airport | Code | City/State | Main Strengths | Main Limitations | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl | MSY | New Orleans, LA | Modern terminal, international flights, good city access | Busy during events, offsite car rentals | ★★★★☆ (4.2) |
| George Bush Intercontinental | IAH | Houston, TX | Global connectivity, United hub, major international gateway | Large and complex, long lines | ★★★★☆ (4.1) |
| Pensacola International | PNS | Pensacola, FL | Easy layout, beach access, efficient service | No international flights, limited routes | ★★★★☆ (4.4) |
| Tampa International | TPA | Tampa, FL | Top-rated, fast security, excellent passenger experience | Crowded in peak seasons, parking can be pricey | ★★★★★ (4.6) |
| Valley International | HRL | Harlingen, TX | Small and fast, near South Padre Island | Limited destinations and amenities | ★★★★☆ (4.3) |
Map of Gulf Coast Airports
The Gulf Coast is a coastal region along the Gulf of Mexico, located in the southern part of the United States. It includes the following states:
- Texas
- Louisiana
- Mississippi
- Alabama
- Florida (specifically the western part known as the Florida Panhandle)
Key features of the Gulf Coast
Warm and humid climate with many beautiful beaches
It’s an important region for the oil and gas industry, fishing, and seaports
Home to several well-known cities, including:
- Houston, Texas
- New Orleans, Louisiana
- Mobile, Alabama
- Tampa and Pensacola, Florida