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Houston Intercontinental Airport IAH

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Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH) Guide

Explore Houston's IAH Airport, Texas's largest and a global hub, known for its impressive art installations. This guide simplifies your journey through IAH, offering essential information for both new and frequent flyers. From navigating terminals to enjoying amenities, we ensure a smooth travel experience.

Need a detailed IAH Airport guide? Our concise resource has everything: flight updates, terminal info, parking, dining, and shopping. Ease your travel worries with our Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.

George Bush Airport, also known as IAH, has five terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, and Terminal E. Terminal A has 20 gates and serves United Airlines. Terminal B has 37 gates and serves American Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. Terminal C has 31 gates and serves United Airlines. Terminal D has 12 gates and serves international airlines, such as Air France, Emirates, and Lufthansa. Terminal E has 30 gates and serves United Airlines and other international airlines, such as British Airways and Qatar Airways.

When navigating the airport terminals, it's important to pay attention to the terminal and gate information on your boarding pass. There are shuttle buses and Skyway people movers that connect the terminals, but it's best to allow enough time to walk between terminals if necessary. Each terminal has a variety of food and beverage options, as well as shops and services such as currency exchange, ATMs, and lounges.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

At Houston Intercontinental Airport, there are five terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, and Terminal E. To get between the terminals, passengers can use the Skyway train system, which runs 24/7 and is free of charge. The train operates every few minutes, and the journey between terminals takes approximately five minutes.

If passengers prefer to walk, there are also pedestrian walkways that connect all terminals. The walk times vary depending on the terminal, but it generally takes between 5 to 15 minutes to walk from one terminal to another. For example, it takes about 10 minutes to walk from Terminal A to Terminal B, and about 15 minutes to walk from Terminal C to Terminal E.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

At IAH, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside of each terminal. However, there are restrictions on curbside parking, and vehicles are not allowed to be left unattended. Drivers are advised to use the cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal if they need to wait for their passengers.

The cell-phone waiting areas are free to use and provide a convenient location for drivers to wait until their passengers are ready to be picked up. These areas are equipped with flight information displays, so drivers can track the arrival time of their passengers' flights. Once the passengers have arrived and collected their luggage, they can call their driver to let them know they are ready to be picked up.

It is important to note that drivers should not park or leave their vehicles unattended in the curbside areas, as this can cause congestion and may result in a fine. Instead, they should use the cell-phone waiting areas until their passengers are ready to be picked up.

Parking Facilities & Options

When it comes to parking at IAH Airport, there are several options available for travelers. The airport has a variety of parking garages and lots located near each terminal. Terminal A has a parking garage, while Terminal B has a parking garage and a surface lot. Terminal C has a parking garage and a covered surface lot, while Terminal D has a parking garage and a valet parking option. Terminal E has a parking garage and a surface lot.

If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are cell phone waiting areas available for each terminal. These areas are free to use and allow you to wait in your car until your passenger is ready to be picked up.

For those who require handicapped parking, there are designated parking spaces available in all parking garages and lots. Shuttle buses are also equipped with wheelchair lifts for easy access.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available near IAH. These parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport and can be a cost-effective alternative to parking at the airport itself.

Get details about IAH parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

The airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help travelers get to their destination. One of the most popular options is car rental. The airport has several car rental facilities located in the Consolidated Rental Car Facility, which is accessible via a free shuttle from the terminals. Major providers include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty.

For those who prefer to take a taxi, there are designated taxi stands located outside each terminal. Fares are calculated based on the meter and vary depending on the destination. It is important to note that there is a $2.75 surcharge for all trips originating from the airport.

Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at Bush Airport. Pickup areas are located outside each terminal, and there are no restrictions on where the ride can go. However, it is important to note that there is a $2.75 surcharge for all trips originating from the airport.

Airport shuttles are another option for travelers. These shuttles provide transportation to and from the airport and nearby hotels. Pickup areas are located outside each terminal, and fares vary depending on the destination.

Finally, for those looking for a more affordable option, public transportation is available. The METRO bus system provides service to and from the airport, with several routes available. Fares start at $1.25 and vary depending on the route and destination.

Airport Hotels

Looking for the perfect hotel near the airport? We've got you covered. Our guide provides a comprehensive list of the best hotel options that are not only close to the airport but also offer a range of amenities to make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible. From hotels that offer a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport, to those with in-house dining options and fitness centers, there is something for everyone. So, whether you're in town for a layover, a business trip, or a vacation, these hotels will ensure your stay is stress-free and enjoyable. Check out our list of George Bush Intercontinental Airport Hotels now!

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

Get ready to indulge in a wide range of dining options and explore a stunning array of retail stores at Houston IAH Airport. From local favorites like Hubcap Grill & Beer Yard and Hugo's Cocina to well-known chains like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks, this airport has something for everyone. And when it comes to shopping, you'll find everything from high-end fashion labels to convenience stores and unique boutiques. For more information on the most popular restaurants, shops, and stores at the airport, including proximity to gates and links to amenity maps, check out our Houston IAH Airport (IAH) Food & Shopping Guide.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at Houston IAH Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check your options here.

Passenger Services

George Bush Airport, also known as George Bush Intercontinental Airport, is a large airport with five terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, and Terminal E. The airport offers a variety of passenger services to make your travel experience more comfortable and convenient.

For those needing to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. If you have lost an item, you can visit the lost and found office located in Terminal C. For families traveling with children, there are designated children's play areas located in each terminal. Special-needs services are also available, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms.

If you need to take care of banking while at the airport, there are several ATMs located throughout the terminals. Additionally, medical clinics are available in Terminal C and Terminal D for those requiring medical attention.

Flight Status Info

As an air traveler, it is important to stay informed about the status of your flight. At Houston Intercontinental Airport, there are several ways to check the status of your flight departure.

One of the easiest ways to check your flight status is by using the Flight Information Display System (FIDS) located throughout the airport. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find the display that corresponds to your flight and check the status.

Another way to stay informed is by using your airline's mobile phone app. Many airlines offer apps that allow you to track your flight status, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, or push notifications to receive updates about your flight status.

Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Houston IAH Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

Helpful Tips

When to Arrive

It is recommended that travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled domestic flight and three hours before their international flight. This allows time for check-in, security screening, and any unforeseen delays. The busiest times at IAH are typically during the morning and early afternoon, so it is best to avoid arriving during these times if possible.

Getting to the Airport

There are several options for getting to IAH, including driving, taking a taxi or rideshare service, or using public transportation. If driving, travelers can take the Sam Houston Tollway or the Hardy Toll Road to access the airport. Taxis and rideshare services are available at designated pick-up areas outside of each terminal. For those using public transportation, the METRO bus and rail system offers several routes that stop at IAH.

Getting Oriented

Travelers can use iFly.com's interactive airport maps to get oriented at IAH. These maps provide a detailed layout of each terminal, including the location of gates, restaurants, shops, and other amenities. The maps can be accessed on a computer or mobile device, making it easy to navigate the airport on the go.

Avoiding Delays

To avoid delays at IAH, travelers should arrive early, pack light, and make sure they have all necessary documents and identification. It is also recommended to check the status of your flight before leaving for the airport and to sign up for flight alerts to stay informed of any changes. Additionally, travelers should be aware of TSA regulations and pack accordingly to avoid delays during the security screening process.

Security Wait Times

At Bush Airport, TSA Security wait times can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. During peak travel times, such as holidays and weekends, wait times can be longer than usual. However, IAH has implemented several measures to help reduce wait times, such as increasing the number of TSA agents and adding more security lanes. You can check the current TSA Security wait times at IAH by visiting https://www.ifly.com/airports/george-bush-intercontinental-airport/wait-times now, so you can budget how much time you need to get to the airport.

Airport Facts & Stats

IAH is located in Houston, Texas, United States. It is the second busiest airport in Texas and the 14th busiest airport in the United States, handling an average of 45 million passengers annually.

The airport has five terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, Terminal C, Terminal D, and Terminal E. Terminal A serves domestic flights for United Airlines, Terminal B serves domestic flights for American Airlines, Terminal C serves domestic and international flights for United Airlines, Terminal D serves international flights for various airlines, and Terminal E serves international flights for United Airlines and domestic flights for various airlines.

The top airlines with the most daily flights at IAH Airport are United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines. On average, the airport handles around 1,200 daily flights and 120,000 passengers daily.

The airport serves over 180 destinations worldwide, including domestic and international locations. The top 5 destinations served from the airport are Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago O'Hare, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.

Several airlines use Bush Airport as a hub, including United Airlines, which has its largest hub at the airport, and Spirit Airlines, which has a focus city operation at the airport.

Airport History

George Bush Airport, also known as George Bush Intercontinental Airport, is a major airport located in Houston, Texas. The airport was originally built in 1969 to serve as a hub for Continental Airlines, which was based in Houston at the time. Since then, the airport has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate the growing number of passengers and airlines that use the facility.

Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1969: Houston Intercontinental Airport opens for commercial service
  • 1981: The airport's name is changed to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in honor of the 41st President of the United States, who had previously served as the Director of the Central Intelligence Agency and as a Congressman from Texas
  • 1990: A new international terminal is opened to handle the increasing number of international flights
  • 2003: The airport's Terminal E is expanded to include a new Federal Inspection Services facility, which allows for faster processing of international passengers
  • 2018: Houston IAH Airport becomes the first airport in North America to offer non-stop flights to all six inhabited continents, with the addition of a non-stop flight to Sydney, Australia

Today, IAH is one of the busiest airports in the United States, serving over 45 million passengers annually. It is a hub for United Airlines and a focus city for Spirit Airlines and VivaAerobus.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about IAH Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: IAH
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +1 281-230-3100
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: George Bush Intercontinental Airport, 2800 N. Terminal Road, Houston, Texas 77032, USA

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

Last updated:

Houston Intercontinental Airport Q&A

Passengers can use the Skyway train system, which operates 24/7 and is free of charge, to get between terminals. Alternatively, pedestrian walkways connect all terminals for those who prefer to walk.
Explore a wide range of dining options and retail stores at Houston IAH Airport by checking out the Houston IAH Airport (IAH) Food & Shopping Guide.
The airport offers a variety of parking garages and lots near each terminal, as well as cell phone waiting areas for picking up passengers. More details on parking options and rates can be found here.
Options include car rentals, taxis, shared ride services like Uber and Lyft, airport shuttles, and public transportation via the METRO bus system. For more information, visit the car rental, taxi stands, airport shuttles, and public transportation pages.
You can check the status of your flight departure by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates.
Yes, there are several hotel options near the airport that offer a range of amenities. Check out the list of George Bush Intercontinental Airport Hotels for more information.
The airport offers free Wi-Fi, a lost and found office, children's play areas, special-needs services including wheelchair assistance, ATMs, and medical clinics. For more details, visit the Wi-Fi, lost and found, and banking pages.