Houston Airports Modernize Security with eGates

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Houston Airports to Install E-Gates for Faster Security Screening by 2026**

**HOUSTON, TX – (Date of publication, e.g., October 26, 2023)** – Houston’s major airports are set to usher in a new era of travel efficiency, with Houston Airports confirming the full implementation of self-service security eGates at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) by February 2026. This significant upgrade aims to drastically reduce wait times and streamline the security checkpoint experience for millions of passengers.

The eGates, which function as automated security screening systems, will allow travelers to scan their identification documents and capture their photos before proceeding to the physical security area. This process is designed to expedite the initial identity verification step, a common bottleneck in traditional airport security.

This initiative is a cornerstone of the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) broader “Checkpoint of the Future” program, an ambitious nationwide effort to integrate advanced technology and innovative processes to enhance both security and passenger convenience across U.S. airports.

“We are incredibly excited to bring this cutting-edge technology to IAH and HOU,” said Mario Diaz, Director of Houston Airports. “Our commitment is to provide a world-class travel experience, and these eGates represent a monumental leap forward in achieving that goal. Passengers can look forward to significantly shorter lines and a more seamless start to their journey.”

The effectiveness of these eGates was rigorously tested during a five-month pilot program at IAH’s Terminal A, running from November 2022 to March 2023. During this period, over 250,000 passengers utilized the system, which recorded an impressive average processing time of just six seconds per individual. The pilot yielded compelling results, demonstrating an overall processing time reduction of 25% at Terminal A’s checkpoints. Furthermore, the data suggested a potential for a 25% decrease in staffing requirements at these initial identity verification stations, allowing TSA personnel to be redeployed to other critical security functions.

“The pilot program at IAH showcased the immense potential of identity verification technology,” stated a TSA spokesperson. “These self-service eGates are a crucial component of our Checkpoint of the Future vision, designed to enhance security effectiveness while simultaneously improving the passenger experience through increased efficiency and reduced friction points.”

The long-term vision for Houston Airports is to deploy these eGates at all security checkpoints across both IAH and HOU, fundamentally modernizing the traveler experience throughout the city’s airport system. The February 2026 target completion date signals a rapid transition towards this modernized, more efficient future of air travel in Houston.

Travelers are encouraged to monitor announcements from Houston Airports and the TSA for more detailed information regarding the rollout and how to best utilize the new eGates closer to their operational launch. Additional information on the TSA’s “Checkpoint of the Future” program can be found on the agency’s official website, TSA.gov.

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