HOUSTON, TX – Houston Airports has become the first in Texas to offer free, on-demand American Sign Language (ASL) visual interpreting services at both George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). The rollout coincides with Deaf Awareness Month, observed throughout September.
The service is provided through the Aira ASL App, which connects deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers to live, professional ASL interpreters via video feed. Travelers can use the service free of charge throughout both airports—from check-in to baggage claim—by utilizing their phone’s camera and screen to interact with the interpreter in real time.
“Accessibility is not optional. It is a core part of how we serve the public,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “With this launch, we are advancing our passenger experience strategy and setting a new benchmark for inclusive travel.”
The program reflects a broader citywide effort to expand access for individuals with disabilities.
“This partnership demonstrates the City of Houston’s commitment to ensuring that accessibility is built into every public space,” said Angel Ponce, director of the City of Houston Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities. “Introducing Aira ASL at our airports empowers deaf and hard-of-hearing travelers to move through Houston with greater independence and dignity.”
The Aira ASL service builds on existing accessibility initiatives at Houston Airports, which already include sensory-friendly rooms, accessible restrooms and parking, service animal relief areas, trained staff, visual paging, companion care restrooms, the Sunflower Lanyard program, and an established Aira app service for blind or low-vision travelers since 2018.
For more information about Aira ASL and Houston Airports’ accessible travel services, visit fly2houston.com.
