United Airlines will extend its nonstop summer flights between George Bush Intercontinental Airport (Houston) and Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO) in 2026. This expansion adds an extra month of daily service, responding to increased traveler demand between Southwest Colorado and Southeast Texas.
Starting May 21, 2026, direct flights will operate daily through August 17, 2026. This marks a significant increase from previous years, offering more travel options during the peak summer season.
Key Takeaways
- United Airlines extends daily nonstop Houston-Durango flights in 2026.
- Service will run from May 21 to August 17, an extra month compared to 2025.
- The route uses a 76-seat Embraer E-175 aircraft.
- Expansion aims to meet strong traveler demand and boost the local economy.
Expanded Summer Air Service for 2026
United Airlines' decision to extend its daily nonstop service between Houston and Durango reflects a growing demand for air travel in the region. The city announced that the extended schedule will provide travelers with more flexibility and increased seat capacity.
Previously, in 2023 and 2024, direct flights on this route were limited to weekends. In 2025, the service expanded to daily operations but only ran from June to mid-August. The 2026 schedule represents a further commitment, covering all core summer months.
Flight Details
- Route: Houston (IAH) to Durango (DRO)
- Airline: United Airlines
- Aircraft: Embraer E-175 (76 seats)
- 2026 Schedule: Daily, May 21 – August 17
Meeting Traveler Demand
Aviation Director Tony Vicari highlighted the importance of this expansion. He stated that strong demand exists for travel between the Four Corners region and Southeast Texas. United Airlines is responding directly to traveler requests for more nonstop options during busy periods.
"We are excited to see United Airlines continue to grow its presence at DRO with expanded daily nonstop seasonal service to Houston next summer," said Aviation Director Tony Vicari in the release. "The expansion of this route to cover all core summer months in 2026 will provide United’s passengers with more connection options and higher overall seat capacity during the busy summer travel period."
This increased service is expected to benefit both residents of Southwest Colorado and visitors traveling to the region. It offers a more convenient and direct link to a major hub airport.
Economic Impact for Durango
The extended flight schedule is anticipated to have a positive impact on the local economy in Durango. Mike French, Durango Prosperity Officer, emphasized that expanded air travel supports local businesses and tourism.
He noted that the Houston route serves as a crucial gateway, providing access to both domestic and international markets for the community. Improved connectivity is vital for economic resilience and diversification.
"Expanding Houston travel in any capacity is an economic lift for our community," French stated. "It benefits local business travel and visitors as a gateway to the international market for us. Airline expansion is critical to create resiliency with diversity into other markets."
Durango-La Plata County Airport (DRO)
DRO serves as a key travel hub for Southwest Colorado, northwest New Mexico, and the broader Four Corners region. In 2024, the airport supported approximately 50,000 passengers. The airport offers several major nonstop routes, including service to Denver, Phoenix, and Dallas-Fort Worth, in addition to Houston.
Connecting to Wider Networks
The Houston route connects Durango travelers to a broader network of destinations. George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is a major hub, offering numerous domestic and international connections. This means passengers from Durango can reach many more places with a single stop.
For example, a family traveling from Durango to an international destination might find it easier to connect through Houston than through other less direct routes. This enhanced connectivity can save travel time and reduce layovers.
The Embraer E-175 aircraft, with its 76 seats, is a standard regional jet. It balances passenger capacity with operational efficiency for routes like Durango-Houston. This aircraft choice supports the daily service schedule effectively.
Looking Ahead
The extension of daily nonstop flights in 2026 shows a positive trend for air travel to and from the Durango-La Plata County Airport. It highlights the importance of regional airports in connecting communities to larger national and global networks.
Local officials and airline representatives will continue to monitor travel patterns and demand. Future expansions or adjustments to service could occur based on these factors. The current expansion provides a strong foundation for summer travel in 2026.
This development is a clear example of how airlines adapt to market needs, offering more convenient and frequent options for travelers. It also underscores the economic benefits that improved air access brings to regional communities.
