Airport Overview
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), located approximately 23 miles north of downtown Houston, is a vital aviation hub for Texas and the southern United States. With over 40 million passengers annually, IAH is one of the busiest airports in the U.S., ranking second in Texas after Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
The airport spans more than 10,000 acres and offers nonstop flights to over 180 destinations across five continents, making it a global gateway. IAH is a major hub for United Airlines, which operates a large percentage of both domestic and international flights out of the airport.
Whether you’re connecting to a domestic city or flying abroad, IAH provides travelers with world-class facilities, modern terminals, and extensive connectivity. For live assistance or help planning your travel, call 1-833-611-4439.
Terminals and Layout
IAH features five passenger terminals: A, B, C, D, and E, organized in a semi-circle and connected by both Skyway (airside) and Subway (landside) train systems, making it easy for travelers to navigate between terminals.
Terminal A
- Handles most non-United domestic airlines, including Delta, American Airlines, Frontier, and Spirit.
- 20 gates across two concourses (A North and A South).
- Offers updated dining, retail, and waiting areas.
Terminal B
- Dedicated to United Express regional flights.
- Currently undergoing a multi-billion-dollar renovation with new gates and technology upgrades.
Terminal C
- Operated exclusively by United Airlines for domestic mainline flights.
- Recently modernized with new amenities, upgraded seating, and food options.
Terminal D
- Handles non-United international flights from British Airways, Air France, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and more.
- Currently being expanded and upgraded with new gates and lounges.
Terminal E
- Operated by United Airlines for international and transcontinental flights.
- Home to United’s international arrivals area, with U.S. Customs and Border Protection facilities.
Need help navigating IAH’s terminals or planning your arrival? Call 1-833-611-4439.
Airlines and Destinations
IAH is served by over 25 passenger airlines, offering connections to destinations in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Major Airlines at IAH:
- United Airlines (hub)
- Delta Air Lines
- American Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
- British Airways
- Emirates
- Lufthansa
- Qatar Airways
- Air France
- Aeromexico
- Viva Aerobus
- Volaris
Top Domestic Routes:
- Denver (DEN)
- Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Phoenix (PHX)
- Las Vegas (LAS)
Top International Routes:
- London-Heathrow (LHR)
- Frankfurt (FRA)
- Paris (CDG)
- Mexico City (MEX)
- Cancun (CUN)
- São Paulo (GRU)
- Doha (DOH)
- Dubai (DXB)
United Airlines recently launched nonstop routes to Medellín, Colombia, and Tokyo Haneda, further expanding IAH’s international reach.
Need assistance with your flight or to book a ticket? Call 1-833-611-4439 for expert help.
Transportation Options
Travelers at IAH have access to a variety of transportation methods to get to and from the airport.
Taxis and Ride Share:
- Taxis: Available 24/7 at the terminals. Approx. fare to downtown Houston is $55–$60.
- Rideshare Services: Uber, Lyft, and Wingz operate designated pickup zones at Terminals A, B, C, and E.
Rental Cars:
- The Rental Car Center is accessible via a free shuttle from all terminals.
- Major companies: Hertz, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, National, and Alamo.
Public Transportation:
- METRO Bus 102: Offers frequent and affordable service to downtown Houston.
- Bus departs every 30 minutes and stops at key points including the Greenspoint Transit Center.
Shuttles and Private Services:
- SuperShuttle and Go Airport Shuttle offer shared and private rides to surrounding cities and suburbs.
- Hotel shuttles operate from the lower level of each terminal.
Need help booking transportation? Contact 1-833-611-4439 for live support.
Check-in and Security
IAH has robust check-in and security infrastructure to support its high volume of domestic and international flights.
Check-In:
- Airline ticket counters located on the Departures level of all terminals.
- Self-service kiosks available for most airlines.
- Curbside check-in is offered by major carriers, especially at Terminals C and E.
Security Screening:
- TSA checkpoints are located at all terminals.
- TSA PreCheck lanes available in Terminals A, C, and E.
- CLEAR biometric screening services are available in Terminals C and E.
Pro Tip: Arrive at least 2 hours early for domestic flights and 3 hours for international departures. For TSA wait time updates, call 1-833-611-4439.
Services and Amenities
IAH features modern amenities, spacious terminals, and travel conveniences suited for families, business travelers, and international flyers.
Dining:
- Local cuisine: Pappadeaux’s, Hugo’s Cocina, and Blaze Pizza.
- Quick eats: Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, Wendy’s, and Auntie Anne’s.
- Bars and lounges: Urban Crave, Ember, and Camden Food Co.
Shopping:
- Duty Free shops in Terminals D and E.
- Travel gear: Brookstone, InMotion Entertainment.
- Gifts and souvenirs: Texas Marketplace, CNBC Smartshop.
Lounges:
- United Club (Terminals C and E)
- Centurion Lounge by American Express (Terminal D)
- Air France Lounge (Terminal D)
- British Airways Lounge (Terminal D)
- USO Lounge (Terminal D for military personnel)
Wellness and Accessibility:
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the airport.
- Pet relief areas located outside each terminal.
- Family restrooms and nursing suites.
- ATMs and currency exchange counters in Terminals C and D.
- Spa services available in select terminals.
Need help finding any services? Call 1-833-611-4439 for directions.
Nearby Hotels
There are many comfortable, traveler-friendly hotels near George Bush Intercontinental Airport, catering to short layovers and extended stays.
Recommended Hotels:
- Houston Airport Marriott – Located inside the airport, connected by the Subway.
- DoubleTree by Hilton Houston Intercontinental Airport
- Hyatt Regency Houston Intercontinental Airport
- Holiday Inn Houston Airport
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Houston Intercontinental Airport
Most of these hotels offer:
- Free airport shuttle service
- 24-hour front desk
- Business centers and breakfast options
Need to book a hotel or find shuttle service? Dial 1-833-611-4439.
Travel Tips and Guidelines
Packing Tips:
- Use TSA-compliant containers for liquids.
- Keep power banks and electronics in your carry-on.
- Label all luggage clearly with your name and contact info.
Best Travel Times:
- Early morning flights (before 8 AM) tend to have the shortest wait times.
- Mid-week flights (Tuesday and Wednesday) are less crowded.
Currency and Payments:
- Currency exchange available at Terminals C and D.
- All major credit cards and mobile payments accepted.
- Tipping is customary for taxis, porters, and shuttle drivers.
Need help before or during your trip? Call 1-833-611-4439.
Emergency and Contact Information
IAH offers 24/7 emergency response and traveler support throughout the airport.
Key Contacts:
- General Traveler Help Line: 1-833-611-4439
- Lost and Found: Located in Terminal C, contact via helpline.
- Medical Assistance: Available at all terminals with paramedics on call.
- Police and Airport Security: Present in every terminal and garage.
- Information Desks: Available in the arrival halls and ticketing areas.
If you’re in need of urgent support, call 1-833-611-4439 immediately.
FAQs About George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
- What is the airport code for George Bush Intercontinental?
IAH. - How far is IAH from downtown Houston?
About 23 miles or 30–40 minutes by car. - Which airlines operate from Terminal A?
Delta, American, Spirit, and Frontier. - Which terminal is United Airlines in?
Terminals B, C, and E. - Is there free Wi-Fi at the airport?
Yes, in all terminals. - Does IAH have lounges?
Yes, including United Club, Centurion Lounge, and more. - How do I get between terminals?
Use the free Skyway (airside) or Subway (landside). - Where is baggage claim located?
Lower level of each terminal. - Is TSA PreCheck available?
Yes, in Terminals A, C, and E. - Can I access CLEAR at IAH?
Yes, in Terminals C and E. - Where can I find parking?
Garages A, B, C, and ecoparking lots are available. - Does the airport offer pet relief areas?
Yes, outside all terminal entrances. - Where is the onsite hotel?
Marriott Hotel connected by the Subway. - Are there 24-hour food options?
Some terminals offer late-night dining, especially Terminal C. - Is public transportation reliable?
Yes, METRO Bus 102 connects to downtown. - Are taxis available at night?
Yes, taxis operate 24/7. - What if I lose my luggage?
Contact the airline or Lost and Found via 1-833-611-4439. - Is the airport open 24/7?
Yes, though services may vary after midnight. - Can I sleep at IAH overnight?
Yes, Terminal C has comfortable seating and the Marriott Hotel is available. - Who do I call for travel help?
1-833-611-4439 for assistance with any travel needs.
Book Flights From/To George Bush Intercontinental Airport
Whether you’re flying within the U.S. or traveling across the globe, IAH offers:
- Direct flights to over 180 destinations
- Full-service and low-cost carriers
- Premium travel services and connections
Need help booking your next flight, making changes, or speaking with an airline representative? Call 1-833-611-4439 today.
Related Airports and Destinations
If IAH isn’t your ideal departure point, consider these nearby alternatives:
- William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) – Great for Southwest Airlines travelers.
- Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) – Just under 3 hours away.
- Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) – Another Texas hub with global reach.
Still unsure? Call 1-833-611-4439 for help choosing the best airport for your trip.
