Posted on September 9th, 2025
Ellington Airport (EFD, KEFD) is a public-use airport located approximately 17 miles southeast of Downtown Houston, making it a convenient gateway for private jet travel to Houston. Formerly known as Ellington Field, EFD is one of three Houston-area airports operated by the City of Houston’s Department of Aviation, alongside George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
Uniquely positioned near NASA’s Johnson Space Center and serving as a joint-use facility for both civilian and military aviation, Ellington Airport supports a range of missions—including private jet charters, military operations, and space-related flight activity. With runway lengths suitable for midsize and large-cabin aircraft, and on-site FBOs offering fueling, hangars, and VIP passenger services, EFD is a preferred option for clients flying to Southeast Houston, Galveston, or the NASA-Clear Lake region.
JetOptions Private Jets offers on-demand charter flights to and from Ellington Airport, providing seamless connections to Houston’s medical, energy, and aerospace sectors. Whether you’re flying in for business, research, or a Gulf Coast retreat, Ellington Airport offers convenience, discretion, and access to one of Texas’s most dynamic regions.
Ellington Airport (EFD), located in Harris County, Texas, is a joint-use airport serving private, military, and aerospace operations in the Houston metropolitan area. The facility features three active runways, supporting a wide range of aircraft—from light jets to heavy cargo planes:
Runway 17R/35L: 9,001 feet (2,743 meters) and equipped with ILS CAT I, ideal for instrument-guided landings in low-visibility conditions.
Runway 04/22: 8,001 feet (2,439 meters), suitable for midsize and heavy jet operations.
Runway 17L/35R: 4,609 feet (1,405 meters), accommodating lighter and regional aircraft.
As a designated reliever airport for both George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), EFD plays a critical role in handling diverted flights, overflow traffic, and adverse weather diversions. It also functions as a key base for military and NASA aircraft, including the Gulfstream Shuttle Training Aircraft (STA) and other high-altitude research platforms.
Ellington Airport is equipped with a full-service Fixed Base Operator (FBO) offering fueling, hangar space, aircraft ground handling, and VIP amenities for private jet travelers. EFD is strategically located just minutes from NASA’s Johnson Space Center and provides direct access to the Houston Spaceport, one of the world’s first commercially licensed spaceports co-located at a major city airport.
The Houston Spaceport at Ellington supports the next generation of aerospace and suborbital flight operations, with a specialized air traffic control tower to coordinate both aircraft and spacecraft traffic. This dual-purpose infrastructure makes EFD a unique destination for aerospace executives, research teams, and commercial spaceflight organizations traveling via private jet.
JetOptions Private Jets offers on-demand private charter flights to and from Ellington Airport, with access to a broad selection of aircraft tailored to your travel needs. Popular jet categories for EFD include:
Whether you’re flying to Houston for a NASA meeting, energy sector engagement, or aerospace industry event, Ellington offers a discreet and efficient alternative to larger commercial terminals.
To arrange your private flight or learn more about aircraft availability, flight planning, and ground support at EFD, contact JetOptions today or request a custom charter quote online.
Airport Codes: EFD (FAA, IATA), KEFD (ICAO)
Latitude/Longitude: N29-36.4 / W095-09.5
Operating hours: 24 Hours daily
FBO: A single fixed-based operator at the main terminal offers FBO services.
Runways:
U.S. Customs: Pre-clearance only.
Address: 11602 Aerospace Ave, Houston, TX 77034
Ellington Airport (EFD) offers direct access to Southeast Houston, Clear Lake, and the NASA campus, making it the preferred arrival point for aerospace professionals, researchers, and travelers headed to the Gulf Coast. Its location near I-45 and Beltway 8 ensures quick ground transfers to the Texas Medical Center, Downtown Houston, and the Port of Houston, without the delays of busier commercial terminals.
Charter and fly to Houston with JetOptions Private Jets, offering seamless arrivals and departures through Ellington Airport (EFD) and other premier regional airports. Explore our curated selection of nearby Houston-area private jet hubs below:
Located in Spring, Texas, DWH is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the U.S., offering top-tier FBO services and access to North Houston and The Woodlands.
Conveniently positioned for Sugar Land and the southwest suburbs, AXH is a private-use airport offering quick ground access and full general aviation services.
Located just 7 miles from downtown, HOU is ideal for VIP and executive charters with multiple FBOs, U.S. Customs, and 24/7 operations.
One of the largest commercial hubs in Texas, IAH also serves private aviation with several elite FBOs and long-haul international charter support.
Serving West Houston and the Energy Corridor, TME features a 6,610-foot runway, hangar facilities, and a luxury FBO terminal for corporate charters.
Ellington Airport (EFD) is a critical component of Houston’s aviation infrastructure, offering unique capabilities and services that cater to both conventional and space-related aviation needs. Its comprehensive facilities, strategic location, and round-the-clock operations make it an excellent choice for private and business aviation, ensuring a seamless and efficient travel experience. For more information or to book a private jet, contact JetOptions and explore the unmatched convenience and service offered at Ellington Airport.
Charter and fly to Houston by private jet with JetOptions’ signature services today!
What types of private aircraft can operate at Ellington Airport?
JetOptions arranges charter flights at Ellington for a full range of aircraft—from light and midsize jets to heavy and long-range models. EFD’s 9,000-foot runway and full instrument landing system make it suitable for most private jet operations, including international flights and larger cabin aircraft.
Is Ellington close to NASA and the Texas Medical Center?
Yes. Ellington Airport is just minutes from NASA’s Johnson Space Center and within 30 minutes of the Texas Medical Center and Downtown Houston. JetOptions offers direct access to these locations with custom ground transportation and scheduling tailored to your itinerary.
Does Ellington Airport have FBO services for private jets?
Absolutely. JetOptions coordinates all private jet arrivals at EFD through its full-service FBO, which includes VIP lounges, fueling, hangars, concierge services, and 24/7 aircraft handling for both domestic and international flights.
Can international private flights arrive at EFD?
Yes. Ellington is equipped to handle international arrivals with advanced CBP coordination. JetOptions manages all customs, immigration, and overflight requirements, ensuring a seamless experience for global travelers entering Houston through EFD.
Is Ellington Airport part of the Houston Spaceport?
It is. EFD hosts the Houston Spaceport, a federally licensed facility for spaceplane operations, research, and development. JetOptions is uniquely positioned to serve aerospace clients with charter flights supporting NASA, commercial space companies, and industry events.
How far is EFD from Downtown Houston and Galveston?
Ellington Airport is located approximately 17 miles from Downtown Houston and 35–40 minutes from Galveston’s beaches and cruise terminals. JetOptions can arrange private SUV, black car, or helicopter transfers to your final destination.
What ground transportation is available at Ellington Airport?
JetOptions provides door-to-door executive ground transportation at EFD, including luxury SUVs, black car service, hotel drop-offs, and optional helicopter transfers. All services can be pre-arranged for maximum convenience and discretion.
Does Ellington serve military and government aircraft?
Yes. As a joint-use airport, Ellington supports U.S. military, government, and NASA missions. JetOptions is experienced in coordinating secure, time-sensitive charter flights for government contractors and defense industry personnel flying through EFD.
