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IAH Intl Airlines Transition to New Terminal E

**IAH Gears Up for Major International Terminal Shift in 2026, Promising Smoother Travel**

**HOUSTON, TX –** International travelers flying out of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will experience a significant transformation beginning March 10, 2026, as a host of major international airlines transition operations to the newly expanded Terminal E and the state-of-the-art International Central Processor (ICP). This strategic move, part of Houston Airports’ ambitious $1.3 billion IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP), is set to dramatically enhance efficiency and the overall passenger experience.

The specific date, March 10, 2026, marks the launch of this critical operational shift. Airlines making the move include Air France, Emirates, EVA Air, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines, along with several other non-Star Alliance international carriers. These airlines will relocate from their current facilities into the cutting-edge new complex designed to accommodate Houston’s growing international air traffic.

“This is more than just a terminal upgrade; it’s a profound reinvestment in Houston’s status as a premier global gateway,” said Mario Diaz, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “The March 2026 opening of the enhanced Terminal E and ICP is a monumental step in our vision to create a 5-star airport experience, ensuring faster processing times, unparalleled comfort, and a world-class welcome for all our international visitors and residents.”

The new facilities promise considerable upgrades designed to streamline every step of the international travel process. Passengers can expect 34 new ticket counters, three additional baggage claim carousels, and a substantial increase in security checkpoints, expanding from five lanes to ten. Crucially, the Customs and Border Protection inspection station has been significantly enlarged and outfitted with the latest technology for more efficient processing, aiming to drastically reduce wait times upon arrival.

Beyond logistical improvements, the new Terminal E and ICP will dedicate over 100,000 square feet to new concessions and retail options, offering a diverse array of dining and shopping experiences. A consolidated baggage screening system will speed up luggage handling, and a new automated people mover will conveniently connect travelers to other terminals, improving inter-terminal transfers.

Mayor John Whitmire underscored the project’s importance for the city’s economy. “Houston is a diverse, international city, and our airport is often the first impression for business leaders, tourists, and new residents,” Mayor Whitmire stated. “The ITRP and this new international gateway at Terminal E will not only elevate the passenger experience but also strengthen Houston’s economic competitiveness and global connectivity for decades to come.”

It is important for travelers to note that not all international flights will be impacted by this move. United Airlines’ international flights, along with those of other Star Alliance carriers, will continue to operate out of Terminal D. This means a large contingent of non-Star Alliance international operators are getting a new, dedicated home designed for their specific needs and passenger volumes.

As the March 2026 date approaches, Houston Airports advises all international travelers to verify their specific airline’s terminal information well in advance of their flight. Further details and updates on the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program can be found on the official Houston Airports website, fly2houston.com. The aim is clear: to reduce wait times, enhance comfort, and make the entire international travel process at IAH smoother, more efficient, and truly modern.

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