[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 149 (Thursday, October 15, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2562]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 RECOGNIZING THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE GEORGE BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL 
                       AIRPORT IN HOUSTON, TEXAS

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. GENE GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, October 14, 2009

  Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. 
Con. Res. 138, which honors the George Bush Intercontinental Airport 
for its 40 years of outstanding service to the residents of Houston, 
TX, and to travelers from around the world.
  Since it first opened in 1969, Bush Intercontinental Airport has 
transported over 700,000,000 passengers to more than 170 U.S. and 
international destinations, making it one of the largest airports in 
the world. This, in turn, has generated tremendous economic benefits 
for the greater Houston area. Travelers to the region account for more 
than $20 billion in annual sales. The airport also employs over 30,000 
Houston-area residents and has created over 120,000 additional jobs in 
local industries. Many of these employees live in our district.
  Bush Intercontinental Airport has likewise served as a hub for cargo 
shipments to the U.S. and Latin America. For four years in a row, the 
airport has received Air Cargo World's ``Air Cargo Excellence Award'' 
for its facilities. It now handles more than 300,000 tons of freight 
annually, and this figure continues to grow. In November, the airport 
plans to open a new import facility for perishable freight, which will 
expand business in temperature and time-sensitive products.
  Together with the Port of Houston, Bush Intercontinental Airport has 
helped to make Houston a truly international city and one of the 
leading ports of entry and export in the country. It serves as a model 
of success in international travel and shipping, and this level of 
accomplishment should be acknowledged.
  I urge my colleagues to support House Concurrent Resolution 138 
recognizing the 40th anniversary of George Bush Intercontinental 
Airport.

                          ____________________