Houston airports roll out CLEAR eGates for faster security

**Houston Airports Accelerate Security with Next-Gen CLEAR eGates at IAH, Hobby**

**HOUSTON, TX –** Travelers flying through Houston’s major hubs, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU), can now experience a faster, more streamlined security screening process thanks to the rollout of CLEAR’s next-generation eGates technology. This significant upgrade aims to reduce wait times and enhance the overall passenger experience at two of the nation’s busiest airports.

The secure identity company CLEAR, known for its expedited security lanes, developed these advanced eGates to revolutionize the identity verification step. CLEAR members will now utilize these state-of-the-art systems by simply scanning their boarding pass and verifying their identity through biometric data – specifically face and eye scans. This eliminates the need to present a physical ID to an agent, creating a touchless and highly efficient path towards the TSA screening process.

Hobby Airport initiated the deployment of the new eGates in November 2023, with installations now operational at both Checkpoint 1 and Checkpoint 2. Following shortly after, Bush Intercontinental Airport began its phased rollout in December 2023, with installations scheduled across all five of its terminals: A, B, C, D, and E. The full implementation of these advanced eGates at both Houston airports is anticipated to be completed by early 2024, promising a comprehensive upgrade for CLEAR members across the city.

“Our commitment to passenger convenience and operational efficiency is paramount,” said Jim Johnson, Chief Operations Officer for Houston Airports. “The integration of CLEAR’s next-generation eGates at both IAH and Hobby underscores our dedication to providing a world-class travel experience for the millions who pass through our terminals each year. This technology is a game-changer for reducing wait times and creating a smoother journey.”

The new eGates replace older CLEAR technology, offering improved speed, reliability, and an even more seamless user experience. With IAH serving over 46 million passengers and HOU serving more than 14 million annually, the impact of significantly reduced average wait times at security checkpoints is expected to be substantial.

“Houston is a critical market for us, and we are thrilled to bring our latest eGate technology to IAH and Hobby,” stated Lisa Chen, CLEAR Regional Director. “These new eGates represent a significant leap forward in travel technology, offering our members an even faster, more predictable journey through security. We’re proud to partner with Houston Airports in their vision for a more efficient and modern travel experience.”

CLEAR operates in over 50 airports and stadiums nationwide, providing members with a dedicated lane to verify their identity before proceeding to physical security screening. While CLEAR is a membership-based service (information on enrollment and pricing can be found at clearme.com), traditional security lines remain available for non-members.

The introduction of these advanced biometric eGates aligns with a growing national trend towards leveraging technology to enhance security and improve the flow of passengers through busy transportation hubs. Houston Airports continue to prioritize investments in innovation that elevate the travel experience for all visitors. Travelers can find more information about CLEAR and airport services on the Houston Airports website, fly2houston.com.