HOUSTON – As Houston prepares to welcome the world for the biggest stage in soccer, Gill Aviation is preparing for a different kind of arrival: increased global private aviation traffic tied to the multi-week event.
Located at David Wayne Hooks Airport (KDWH) in northwest Houston, the Houston-based FBO has built its reputation on accessibility, quick turns and high-touch service. Now, with one of the world’s largest sporting events approaching, Gill Aviation, an FAA-designated reliever airport to Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport, is scaling operations to accommodate increased global traffic while maintaining efficiency and service standards.
“It’s an exciting opportunity, and we’re proud to be a part of this once-in-a-lifetime event,” said Amy Mounger, General Manager of Gill Aviation. “We started planning months in advance, and we’re ready for what customers will need during this multi-week experience.”
Positioned for convenience and access
Located just minutes from Houston and The Woodlands, with direct access to major freeways, Gill Aviation offers an alternative to more congested airports closer to downtown. The FBO supports approximately 275,000 aircraft movements annually, positioning David Wayne Hooks Airport as a strategic reliever for high-traffic events like the summer of soccer.
Aircraft can taxi in, park efficiently and have passengers on the road within minutes, an advantage that becomes critical during high-traffic events.
“Taxi wait times are minimal, and once passengers step off the aircraft, they’re immediately connected to major roadways,” Mounger said. “We’re focused on getting people where they need to go safely, smoothly and without delay.”
For operators, that level of ground efficiency is just as critical as performance in the air.
Planning for sustained demand
Unlike single-day events, the international soccer spectacle will generate sustained and fluctuating traffic over several weeks, requiring continuous coordination and operational flexibility. Building on the FBO’s experience with previous high-traffic events, Gill Aviation’s global soccer tournament preparations include:
- Ramp layout planning for multiple traffic scenarios
- Increased staffing across all operational departments
- Expanded Jet A with Prist and 100LL fueling capacity, including an additional refueler truck
- Capability to accommodate aircraft up to large-cabin, ultra-long-range business jets, supporting a wide range of business and general aviation aircraft
- Dedicated or expanded crew lounges to support pilots and crew during extended ground times
- Opportunities for business meetings or networking within the facility
- Coordination with ground transportation providers and local partners to support international travelers, ensuring a seamless transition from arrival to final destination
- Coordination with other FBOs across soccer game host cities
Operators should plan ahead for event-related flight procedures, which may include Prior Permission Required (PPR), slot coordination and other flight traffic management initiatives. A Temporary Flight Restriction (TFR) is expected around NRG Stadium on match days; however, due to its distance from the venue, Gill Aviation is not expected to be impacted. While PPR requirements have not yet been finalized, operators are encouraged to contact Gill Aviation directly for the most current guidance and continue checking with the FBO and FAA resources as plans evolve.
“We’re planning for varying demand levels day by day,” Mounger said. “Preparation and communication are key to maintaining safe, efficient operations while delivering the level of service our customers expect.”
Reliable fuel supply, especially during peak demand, is critical. As the only refiner in the branded aviation space and with its refiner-backed infrastructure, Phillips 66® Aviation’s long-standing collaboration with Gill Aviation positions the branded FBO to maintain consistent fuel availability throughout the event.
“They’ve been a reliable supplier for us for decades. We have no trouble getting any supply of fuel we need. Having that dependability in place year-round, and especially during these busy times, is key,” Mounger said.
Bringing the Global Soccer Tournament Experience to the FBO
While operational readiness remains the priority, Gill Aviation is also incorporating elements of the global soccer competition experience into its facility.
The FBO will feature soccer-themed décor throughout the tournament, along with a recently renovated pilot lounge equipped with expanded seating and multiple screens for live match viewing.
“We know people will want to stay connected to the action, even while traveling,” Mounger said. “We’re creating an environment where crews and passengers can experience the excitement of the tournament.”
Personalized service at scale
Founded by the Gill Family in 1989, Gill Aviation’s approach has remained rooted in personalized, relationship-driven service, where customers are greeted by familiar faces and every interaction is intentional.
“What sets us apart is the connection our customers have with our staff,” Mounger said. “They walk through the door and know the people taking care of them. That’s something we’ve built over time and continue to prioritize.”
To prepare for increased traffic, the FBO is reinforcing that service culture with additional training focused on high-volume operations, ensuring consistency at every touchpoint from arrival to departure.
Looking Ahead
As Houston takes the global stage, Gill Aviation is prepared to play a critical role behind the scenes, ensuring every arrival and departure is handled with precision, efficiency and care.
Beyond the global event, the FBO continues to explore infrastructure enhancements to support long-term growth at David Wayne Hooks Airport and meet increasing demand for business aviation in the region.
For more information about Gill Aviation, visit https://www.gillaviationfbo.com.