Must be nice

Need a lift? United aims to please top customers with a chauffeur-driven Mercedes on the tarmac

As it if weren't nice enough for United's top customers to board first, get all that extra legroom and a real meal on most flights, now there's another really cool perk.

The airline recently began a pilot program at Bush Intercontinental Airport to escort Global Services members (the top United frequent fliers) and select United Global First class customers into a waiting silver Mercedes-Benz SUV or sedan on the tarmac, where they are chauffeur-driven to their connecting flight.

There are few caveats (besides the fact you have to fly a zillion miles to be eligible for this service): It's available only when the incoming flight is delayed for a VIP who might otherwise miss a connection and it can't be requested or reserved. "It is designed to surprise and delight our top customers who may be anxious about missing a connecting flight," the airline said in a news release.

Plus, there are only two Mercedes vehicles, although the program will be expanded if it proves to be popular.

United recently inked a deal with Mercedes to offer incentives of up to $5,000 and bonus mile while purchasing or leasing a new vehicle, in addition to offering the tarmac service.

United is not the first airline to offer such service. Delta began tarmac transfers via Porsche in Atlanta on November 2011.

United Airlines has begun a service with Mercedes to transport top customers to their connecting flights.

United's Mercedes Tarmac Transporation Service at IAH

Courtesy photo

United Airlines has begun a service with Mercedes to transport top customers to their connecting flights.

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all routes lead to rome

New nonstop flight connects Houston with Rome for the first time

Photo courtest of Houston Airports

Houston Mayor John Whitmire listens as Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, discusses the addition of ITA Airways at IAH.

Thinking of a Roman holiday? The good news for Houstonians is that George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will begin offering direct, nonstop flights to Rome starting next spring. It will be the first time IAH and Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO) in Fiumicino, Italy have connected nonstop.

“We welcome ITA Airways to Houston, as it reflects our city's prominence on the global stage," said Houston Mayor John Whitmire in a press conference held on Tuesday, December 2. "The first ever route between Houston and Rome will strengthen our business, diplomatic, and cultural ties with Italy. It will also bring more visitors to experience Houston's vibrant culture, world-class healthcare, and diverse industries."

Starting May 1, 2026, ITA Airways will offer three flights a week between Houston and Rome, expanding to five flights a week beginning June 1. Houston is ITA's ninth North American destination.

“Nonstop service to Rome is a defining moment for Houston and a direct result of the strength and credibility of our airport system. This route will bring new visitors, new investment, and new business opportunities into our region,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “It expands Houston’s presence in Europe and proves that disciplined, strategic growth at Houston Airports delivers measurable economic impact. Strong airports don’t just move people. They shape markets, expand opportunity and help define a city’s place in the world.”

Flights will be made via a Airbus A330-900. The model is renowned for its comfort on long flights, including ergonomic seats, ample personal space, and a quiet cabin. Appropriately, many of the interior cabin components are made in Italy and reflect an elegant European design.

Houston billionaire Tilman Fertitta, currently serving as America's ambassador to Italy, also welcomed the new route that connects his hometown with his current job.

“As a Texan and as the U.S. Ambassador to Italy, I’m thrilled by ITA’s new direct route between Houston and Rome," Fertitta said. "It strengthens the economic links that drive mutual understanding and shared prosperity. It was great working with ITA Airways CEO Joerg Eberhart, Mayor John Whitmire, and all the partners that helped make this possible.”

The new route to Rome continues the international expansion that has been happening at IAH over the last several years. Last year, the airport announced new non-stop flights to recent vacation hotspot, Puerto Escondido, Mexico. It was part of Houston Airports' goal of making Houston the gateway to America ahead of the FIFA 2026 World Cup. Now, it looks like IAH will be welcoming Italian soccer fans, as the routes open up just in time for the sports event next summer.

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