“Travel and tourism is strong and booming in Texas,” Abbott said Tuesday during a discussion about travel at American Airlines headquarters.
FORT WORTH, Texas — Tourism is on the rise both nationally and in Texas, and the Lone Star State is benefiting from the travel boom.
On Tuesday afternoon, Gov. Greg Abbott visited American Airlines headquarters in North Texas to chat about the travel industry’s impact on the Lone Star State’s economy.
“Right now, travel and tourism is strong and booming in Texas,” Abbott said. “Texas is working with our businesses to help them gain easier access.”
Abbott credited American Airlines for moving its headquarters from New York City to Dallas-Fort Worth in 1979 because of the state’s strong travel industry.
A variety of sports and entertainment events draw millions of visitors from around the world, including the recent State Fair of Texas, last weekend’s Texas vs. OU game, Cowboys game, and the Austin City Limits music festival. are collecting.
Texas AAA spokesperson Daniel Armbruster said Texas experienced record travel numbers over the summer.
“We’re seeing Texas grow and we’re seeing the travel industry trying to keep up,” Armbruster said. “That means you’ll need a hotel or a rental car. We’ve seen times where it’s difficult to find a rental car.”
According to the U.S. Travel Association, tourist spending contributed nearly $95 billion to Texas’ economy in 2023.
Texas AAA expects travel to and from the state will continue to gain momentum heading into the travel season, a trend that has continued since the end of the pandemic.
“Gasoline prices are down compared to last year and travel is booming, so I would be shocked if we don’t have another near-record Thanksgiving,” Armbruster said.
As Texas sees growth in its travel industry, U.S. Census data shows more people are moving here as well.
