✈️ Flight Guide: Atlanta (ATL) → Houston (IAH)

October brings vibrant events that can drive demand on the ATL–IAH route. In Atlanta, fall college football (University of Georgia, Georgia Tech) and Oktoberfest/pumpkin festivals increase weekend travel. In Houston, October can feature the Texas Renaissance Festival (near Plantersville), potential MLB postseason home games if the Houston Astros qualify, and various outdoor food and music events. Nearby cities like Savannah, Charlotte, Austin, Galveston, and San Antonio host fall festivals and are accessible as add-on destinations. If you plan travel around festival dates, book flights and hotels early to lock in availability and better fares.

The best time to fly from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in October is midweek (Tuesday–Thursday) and during off-peak hours (late morning and mid-afternoon) to avoid peak business and college football travel spikes. Book 3–6 weeks ahead for competitive fares and consider evening flights for better on-time performance. If you prefer lower crowds, target weekday afternoon departures; if you want to attend weekend events, reserve flights as soon as dates are firm.

Nonstop flights between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) save time—typically about 2 hours 15 minutes flight time—and reduce the risk of missed connections, making them ideal for short October trips. Connecting flights can be cheaper, especially on smaller carriers or off-peak days, and may be useful if you need a specific arrival time or want to use a particular carrier. For October travel, weigh cost savings against added travel time and potential connection-related stress; for business travelers or short weekend trips, nonstop is usually preferable.

Delta Air Lines operates numerous nonstop flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in October, offering frequent schedules and loyalty benefits for SkyMiles members. United Airlines and Southwest Airlines also provide competitive nonstop or one-stop options—Southwest is often the best value for free checked bags and flexible change policies, while United can offer connectivity through its hubs. American Airlines may present competitive connecting fares via its network. For October travelers, compare total trip cost (including baggage fees), schedule convenience, and elite status perks. Use airline apps to track promotions and check-in faster for fall travel.

Pack layers for October trips between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Atlanta can be cool in the morning and evenings, while Houston remains warm and humid during the day. Monitor NOAA tropical outlooks early in the month, although hurricane risk typically decreases by mid-October. Check TSA wait times and airport parking reservations before departure; use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR if available to speed screening. For ground travel at IAH, pre-book rides on event weekends, and allow extra time for traffic when heading to Galveston or downtown Houston during festival days. Finally, keep digital copies of travel documents and add airline apps for real-time updates and mobile boarding passes.

Nonstop flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) typically take around 2 hours 10–30 minutes in October, depending on routing and winds. Multiple nonstop departures occur daily, with peak frequency in early morning and late afternoon to evening—ideal for same-day business travel. Connecting options (via Dallas, Charlotte, or Newark) can add 1–3+ hours depending on layover. Check airlines’ published timetables for seasonal schedule changes and use the airline app for real-time updates on departure gates and delays.

To find cheap flights from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in October, search 21–45 days ahead and monitor midweek departures for the lowest fares. Typical one-way economy fares in October often range from $89–$199 depending on advance purchase and promotions; sales can push prices lower. Use flexible date searches, compare IAH and HOU (William P. Hobby) fares, and sign up for fare alerts. Consider basic-economy or Southwest’s Wanna Get Away fares for budget options, and clear browser cookies or use incognito mode when comparing prices to avoid dynamic fare fluctuations. Book refundable or changeable tickets if itinerary flexibility is important during fall event weekends.