Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your December journey
In December, the best ways to reach Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) are by rideshare, taxi, airport shuttle, or driving and using long-term parking. Traffic in the New Orleans metro can increase during holiday events and evening concerts, so allow extra time for curbside pickup and security screening. Book airport shuttles in advance during the holiday season to secure space and save with shared-ride options.
A nonstop flight between Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) usually takes about 1 hour and 20–30 minutes gate-to-gate. Weather in December can sometimes add small delays, so plan for an extra 30–60 minutes if traveling around holiday snow systems or early morning fog affecting Houston or New Orleans. Check real-time flight status before leaving for the airport.
Yes — there are frequent nonstop flights from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) throughout December, typically operated by carriers such as United and Southwest. Nonstop service is common year-round, but frequencies increase on peak holiday travel days, so book early to secure the best nonstop schedule and fares. Use airline apps or the airport flight board for up-to-date departure gates and times.
During December, baggage volumes increase due to holiday gifts and seasonal travel, so verify size and weight limits with your airline ahead of time to avoid overage fees. Arrive earlier than usual — 90 minutes for domestic flights is recommended during the holidays — and tag checked bags properly. Consider carry-on packing tips to speed up security and avoid lost-luggage issues that are more likely during peak seasons.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) offers short-term and long-term parking lots and garages, but spaces can fill quickly during December holiday peaks. Reserve parking online if your airline or airport partner provides it, or plan to arrive earlier and use off-site parking with shuttle service. For multi-day trips, compare on-airport rates vs. off-airport economy lots to save money.
December in the Gulf Coast can bring sporadic cold fronts, light freezing rain in rare years, and occasional fog — any of which can cause short delays at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Generally, widespread winter weather impacts are less frequent than in northern hubs, but Houston-area systems can ripple delays back to MSY. Check airport and airline advisories the day of travel and enroll in flight alerts for real-time updates.
Upon arrival at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in December, expect heavier passenger volumes, longer lines at customs for international transfers, and increased demand for ground transportation around holiday events. Domestic arrivals usually clear baggage quickly, but plan for 20–40 extra minutes if flights are delayed or if there are late-night holiday surges. Check the arrivals board and use airline mobile apps to confirm baggage carousel and curbside pickup instructions.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) offers rideshares, taxis, rental cars, hotel shuttles, and public transit options like METRO bus connections year-round. During December, hotel shuttle demand and rideshare wait times can be longer, so pre-booking shared shuttles or early car rentals is recommended. For travelers heading into Houston proper, plan on 25–45 minutes to downtown Houston depending on traffic and weather.
December in the Houston area can bring cold fronts, occasional freezing precipitation, and fog that might delay operations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). While extreme winter storms are less common than in northern hubs, storms affecting Texas and the Gulf Coast can cause cascading delays and cancellations. Monitor airline alerts and IAH's official advisories, and allow buffer time for connections during the holiday season.
Near Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Enjoy 'Celebration in the Oaks' at City Park, seasonal parades and holiday dining in the French Quarter, and small neighborhood tree lightings that peak in early December. Near George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Houston’s ZooLights, theater district holiday shows, and Galveston’s Dickens on The Strand festival draw visitors and can increase hotel and ground transport demand. If traveling to or from MSY and IAH in December, check event dates and book accommodations and rides in advance. CTA: Explore local December events and adjust flight dates to avoid event-driven price spikes.
For December travel from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), the best times to fly are early mornings on weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) to find cheaper fares and lower delay risk. Avoid the last weekend before Christmas and the days immediately before New Year’s Eve when prices and crowds spike. If you prefer lower fares over absolute reliability, target the first two weeks of December. CTA: Book early morning midweek flights for the best balance of price and on-time performance.
On the MSY to IAH route in December, nonstop flights are usually the preferred option: they save time, reduce missed-connection risks during holiday weather, and often cost the same or only marginally more than connecting itineraries. Connecting flights can be an option for lower-cost or reward-based itineraries but add risk if storms affect the Houston or New Orleans regions. For business and tight holiday schedules, prioritize nonstop service from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). CTA: Search nonstop December flights now to compare prices and schedules.
United Airlines: Strong hub operations at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with many daily nonstops and reliable connections; ideal for travelers needing onward international or domestic connections. Southwest Airlines: Helpful for low-cost, flexible change policies and multiple daily flights, often with competitive December fares. American and Delta: May offer limited schedules on this route but could present viable options depending on loyalty benefits. Evaluate baggage policies and flexibility — Southwest often includes two free checked bags, while legacy carriers may charge. CTA: Compare carrier fares and baggage rules for your December MSY to IAH trip to find the best overall value.
Pack layers for December Gulf Coast travel — mornings can be chilly in Houston and New Orleans while afternoons remain mild. Bring portable chargers, printed and app-based travel documents, and a small carry-on with essentials in case checked luggage is delayed. Book flights early in the month if possible, choose nonstop flights to lower missed-connection risk, and enroll in flight alerts for real-time updates. Allow extra time for parking, security, and rideshare pickups on heavy travel days. CTA: Prepare smart for December travel between Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) by checking weather and airline policies before you go.
Average nonstop flight time from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is approximately 1 hour 20–30 minutes gate-to-gate. In December, expect 6–10 nonstops daily, with more flights on peak holiday days; United tends to increase frequencies given IAH is a major hub. Early-morning flights (6:00–9:00 AM) often have better on-time performance in winter, while late evenings can face more delays. CTA: Check current December schedules and set flight alerts to monitor changes.
To find cheap December flights from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), search early (6–10 weeks ahead) and compare midweek departures for lower fares. Use fare alerts, flexible dates, and consider the first two weeks of December which are generally less expensive than the last two weeks before Christmas and New Year’s. Check low-cost carriers and legacy airlines for bundled savings; sometimes round-trip savings appear when combining different airline legs. CTA: Compare December MSY to IAH fares now and set price alerts to capture last-minute deals.
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Major carriers like United Airlines and Southwest Airlines operate frequent flights from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) even in December. United has a strong hub presence at IAH, providing multiple daily nonstops and smooth connections to domestic and international flights. Compare fares on the airlines’ booking pages and look for December promotions or bundled deals.
From George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) you can access downtown Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, Galveston, and Austin with ground transportation or short connecting flights. December visitors often pair Houston nightlife, Galveston holiday events, or The Woodlands resorts with their IAH arrival. Check regional transit and shuttle timetables as schedules sometimes adjust for holiday service.
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) increases holiday amenities in December, including seasonal decor, extended retail hours in some terminals, and enhanced customer service desks to assist travelers. Lounges remain available following regular access rules, and many restaurants adjust menus for the season. Check terminal maps and the IAH website for specific hours and any holiday pop-up services.
