IAH $1.46B Redevelopment Wrapping Up

**IAH Nears Completion of $1.46 Billion International Gateway, Elevating Houston’s Global Standing**

Houston, TX – George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is on the cusp of completing its monumental $1.46 billion Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP), a multi-year transformation poised to significantly enhance the city’s global connectivity and passenger experience. While the broader ITRP is slated for full completion in early 2025, a critical milestone was achieved in late 2024 with the much-anticipated opening of the new Mickey Leland International Terminal (MLIT).

The state-of-the-art MLIT, a cornerstone of the redevelopment, is designed to accommodate larger aircraft and is projected to boost international passenger capacity by an impressive 40%. This expansion is vital for Houston, a rapidly growing international hub, and aims to streamline operations for the millions of travelers who pass through IAH annually. The new terminal features expanded check-in halls, advanced baggage handling systems, multiple security checkpoints equipped with the latest screening technology, and significantly larger gate areas designed for passenger comfort. It also integrates a vibrant selection of new dining and retail concessions, ample natural light, and public art installations, creating a more welcoming and efficient gateway.

The extensive $1.46 billion investment, a collaborative effort involving Houston Airports, United Airlines, and federal partners such as U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), extends far beyond the MLIT. The program also encompassed crucial infrastructure upgrades across the airport campus, including the expansion of Parking Garage B, which adds thousands of new spaces and incorporates smart parking technology, and significant improvements to federal checkpoint areas within existing terminals to expedite traveler processing. These enhancements include additional lanes for customs and security, more efficient biometric screening options, and an increase in TSA PreCheck availability.

“The Mickey Leland International Terminal represents a new era for international travel in Houston,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “This terminal is not just about capacity; it’s about delivering a world-class experience, reducing wait times, and making IAH a more attractive hub for airlines and passengers alike. Our partnership with United Airlines and federal agencies has been instrumental in bringing this vision to life.”

The terminal is named in honor of Mickey Leland, a revered former U.S. Congressman from Houston, known for his humanitarian work and commitment to public service. The naming serves as a tribute to his enduring legacy within the city and beyond.

United Airlines, which operates a major hub at IAH, has been a key partner in the ITRP. “IAH is a critical hub in United’s global network, connecting Houston to destinations worldwide,” stated a United Airlines spokesperson. “This redevelopment strengthens our operational efficiency, allows for future growth of our international routes, and significantly enhances the experience for our customers, from check-in to boarding.”

The overarching goal of this massive investment has been to modernize IAH, positioning it as a competitive global aviation leader, while simultaneously working to reduce flight delays and dramatically enhance the overall experience for passengers. The ITRP is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the Houston region, supporting thousands of construction jobs, fostering increased tourism and business travel, and solidifying Houston’s reputation as a vital international gateway. As the final phases wrap up, IAH is set to fully realize its potential as a premier global air hub for decades to come.