At Houston City Council's weekly meeting May 3, council members approved an agenda item to enter into an agreement with Texas Southern University, leasing space to the school for the creation of an aviation education facility at Ellington Airport.

The breakdown:
  • This agreement between the city and TSU will last five years.
  • Houston Airport Systems will invest up to $5 million under a separate contract to develop the facility.
  • The aviation education facility will include 22,000 square feet of aircraft hangar space, 7,200 square feet of office and training/classroom space and 20,000 square feet of aircraft apron and will total approximately 2 acres.
  • HAS will charge TSU a reduced annual rent of $60,000, or $5,000 per month, during the initial five years of the lease term. If the lease is extended for the five-year option period, full market rate rent will be charged.
Quote of note:

“The city of Houston is proud of its partnership with Texas Southern University, and we are excited to witness the aviation students’ education and careers take flight. The air transportation industry in Houston and across the United States is growing and provides career opportunities for those with the skills needed to succeed,” said Mayor Sylvester Turner.

Did you know?:
  • William P. Hobby Airport has a 5-star rating, according to international airport ratings organization Skytrax. Hobby is the only airport in North America with this ranking.
  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport is a 4-star airport, also according to Skytrax.