FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 18, 2026
BROWNSVILLE, Texas (February 18, 2026) —Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) today announced the launch of GoodMaps, an advanced indoor navigation platform designed to improve accessibility and support independent travel. Offering indoor navigation and wayfinding in more than 25 languages, GoodMaps helps passengers of all abilities, including those facing language barriers, navigate the terminal with confidence.
“As the Rio Grande Valley continues to grow, BRO is committed to leading with innovation,” said Faisal Khalifa, Interim Airport Director. “Implementing GoodMaps strengthens our position as a modern international gateway while ensuring accessibility remains central to that growth.”
BRO is the first airport in the Rio Grande Valley and the third in Texas to implement this technology, reinforcing the City’s commitment to accessibility and prioritizing inclusive innovation that serves the entire community and visitors.
“Accessibility is about dignity, independence, and opportunity,” said Mayor John Cowen. “By bringing innovative tools like GoodMaps to our airport, we’re ensuring that residents, visitors, and international travelers alike can move through our community with confidence.”
Interim City Manager Alan Guard emphasized the role of partnerships and innovation. “This project shows how thoughtful technology can improve everyday public experiences while advancing accessibility and equity across the City,” Guard said.
Community Celebration Event
The launch will be celebrated with a free community event featuring live demonstrations and hands-on experiences with the GoodMaps technology.
• Date: February 18, 2026
• Time: 10:00 a.m.
• Location: BRO Terminal, First Floor Lobby (near Calacas)
Local organization expected to participate include Workforce Solutions Cameron, Disability Rights Texas – South Texas Regional Office, Easterseals RGV, Valley Association for Independent Living, RGV Down Syndrome Association, and the Brownsville Special Needs Advisory Committee.
Register: https://flybrownsville.com/goodmaps-at-bro/
Technology Designed for a Border Gateway
Using LiDAR mapping and AI-powered camera-based positioning, GoodMaps delivers sub-30-centimeter accuracy without costly infrastructure upgrades. Features include multilingual navigation, audio guidance for blind and low-vision travelers, visual directions for deaf and hard-of-hearing users, and step-free routing for wheelchair users, seniors, and families with strollers.
“This partnership shows how technology can bridge borders and break down barriers,” said Kevin Kline, Community Engagement Representative at GoodMaps. “By supporting independence, BRO is setting an example for airports everywhere.”
The GoodMaps app is available for free on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Interactive maps are also available at flybrownsville.com/goodmaps. For more information on GoodMaps, please click here to learn more.
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ABOUT BRO:
Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport (BRO) is located in the heart of Brownsville in the Rio Grande Valley, serving Texas and Mexico. Located minutes from downtown Brownsville and South Padre Island, BRO provides convenient access to major destinations through partnerships with Aerus, American Airlines, and United Airlines. Serving a regional population of 1.43 million and key demand drivers including SpaceX, Rio Grande LNG, and a thriving tourism economy, the airport continues to invest in modern facilities, passenger amenities, and new air service to support the region’s growing economy and vibrant community. The 91,000-square-foot terminal features full international capability and is designed for future expansion as passenger traffic grows. For more information, visit: www.FlyBRO.com.
Lorena Cardona
Marketing and Business Development Manager, BRO
Lorena.E.Cardona@BrownsvilleTX.gov
