METRO Launches Direct Route to George Bush Intercontinental Airport

Need a convenient and cost-effective way to travel from Downtown Houston to the airport? Hop on METRO’s new route, the 500 IAH Downtown Direct, providing non-stop service to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

The route operates every 30 minutes, seven days a week from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. For just $4.50, riders can board at the George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) and ride comfortably to IAH Terminal C.

The 500 IAH Downtown Direct is part of the METRONow plan, aimed at providing more high-quality, reliable and accessible transit options across the Houston region.

“This is a clear example of the METRO that people will choose to use because it’s easy, comfortable, extremely affordable at only $4.50, and truly the best option,” said METRO Chair Elizabeth Gonzalez Brock. “People needing to get to and from the airport can take this route that offers reduced travel time with a non-stop trip, eliminates the hassle of parking, and saves people money.”

The 102 Bush IAH Express will continue to serve IAH, but the new route provides a faster option to travel to the airport without any additional stops.

Native Houstonian Valeria used the service for a recent work trip and was impressed by the cost and convenience.

"A day like today, where I have to get to a flight, this was actually the most convenient way for me to head to the airport," she said. "It's great because there is a lot of space and I get to work a little bit on the bus."

Marisa Donatti, also a native Houstonian, was thrilled that the new route saved her a long drive to IAH to drop off her mother, who was flying to France.

"I would highly recommend taking this bus route whenever you can," Donatti said. "Houston is trying to do a better job about increasing public transit options. This is the extra step to getting people to take public transit more regularly." 

If you are traveling from downtown to GRB, the Community Connector can get you there for free. The on-demand, clean-energy microtransit service allows riders to reach other METRO services or essential destinations within the downtown zone.

Customers can also connect to the GRB by hopping on the METRORail Green and Purple lines.

As Houston gears up for the big events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the upcoming $2 billion transformation of the GRB, investments like this one are critical to keep the city moving efficiently.

“As we embark on a world-class transformation of the GRB and the surrounding Convention District, enhancing access to and from the airport is essential,” said Michael Heckman, President & CEO of Houston First Corporation. “This service will support growing tourism, help attract major events, and strengthen Houston’s position as a global destination.”

To learn more about the new 500 IAH Downtown Direct, visit our website. To book a ride on the Community Connector, download the Ride Circuit app.