HOUSTON — Mayor John Whitmire signed an executive order Tuesday raising the minimum wage for workers employed by airlines, concessionaires and their contractors at Houston’s three city airports.
The order sets the minimum wage at $20 an hour and calls for increases to $21 an hour in January, before reaching $23 an hour in 2028.
The wage increases apply to workers covered under contracts at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, William P. Hobby Airport and Ellington Airport.
Whitmire said the higher wages could help Houston Airports retain experienced workers and improve service for travelers.
“Improving working conditions and the quality of life for airport workers benefits all Houstonians and our millions of visitors,” Whitmire said.
The city said the increase marks the first wage adjustment for Houston airport workers since 2023. Officials said wages had not kept pace with increases in the cost of rent, groceries, gasoline and utilities.
Union leaders said higher pay could also reduce employee turnover and help airport operations run more smoothly.
Augusta Dillon, a toolroom agent at Bush Airport and a member of SEIU Texas, said the increase would make it easier for her to cover her expenses.
“I am not going to have to worry so much about paying my bills,” Dillon said. “We’re paving the way for a better future for Houston and Texas workers.”
