Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) continues to enhance its reputation as a cultural hub by expanding its live music program, which has become a hallmark of the travel experience in Central Texas. Since its inception shortly after the airport's grand opening, the music initiative has grown from a single stage hosting one performance per week to eight stages, including a main stage for full bands and several smaller stages for solo acts. This transformation reflects AUS's commitment to showcasing Austin's vibrant music scene, with over 1,300 live performances held annually.

In 2024, AUS hosted a remarkable 1,351 performances featuring more than 200 local musicians, reinforcing the airport's identity as a gateway to the live music capital of the world. The program not only enhances the traveler experience but also supports the local creative community, providing a platform for artists to connect with audiences.

The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to the music program, leading to a temporary pause in live performances. In response, AUS innovated by launching the Jetstream music festival, a virtual event that featured musicians from various cities, helping to maintain connections during a difficult time. As live music resumed in late 2020, AUS implemented new safety protocols to ensure the well-being of both performers and travelers.

However, recent staffing changes have impacted the music operations at AUS. A planned leave for the music coordinator extended unexpectedly, leading to the cancellation of several shows due to a lack of sound engineering support. In response, AUS quickly onboarded temporary staff and secured a contractor to maintain the quality of performances. Despite these challenges, the airport has successfully increased its weekly performance capacity from 15 to 20 shows.

Looking ahead, AUS is working on refining its musician application process to ensure a more equitable and transparent system. This initiative aligns with the city's broader cultural goals, as the management of arts and entertainment is set to transition to Acme, a move announced by the city manager earlier this year. As these changes unfold, AUS remains dedicated to fostering Austin's rich musical heritage and enhancing the travel experience for millions of visitors each year.