The 10,000 sq. foot architectural ceiling is inspired by sunlight filtered through live oak trees in Houston. Photo Credit: Courtesy of George Bush Intercontinental Airport
The new Terminal D-West Pier at George Bush Intercontinental Airport, an expansion of the existing Terminal D, will begin welcoming passengers on Oct. 22.
The six new gates — D1 through D6 — will be able to accommodate six wide-body aircraft simultaneously, and can be converted to fit 10 narrow-bodied planes.
"We are focused on improving the overall passenger experience at the airport — from parking and traffic to providing modern terminals with the right amenities. This project is a major investment in our city's future," said Houston Mayor John Whitmire. "The newly expanded international terminal enhances Houston's reputation as a world-class city, and provides a boost to our economy, supporting jobs and attracting more visitors from around the globe."
The opening of the expansion is a major step forward in the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program, a $1.458 billion investment aimed at modernizing the airport's international capabilities. ITRP is the single largest capital improvement project developed by Houston Airports.
Amenities in the expansion
The new Terminal D-West Pier will include a mother's room, a sensory room and a child's play area. The international-arrivals corridor provides views of the airfield, the concourse and large-scale photography inspired by Houston. The 500 comfortable seats, including chairs, cushioned benches and cozy loungers, feature cup holders and charging capabilities.
The Houston Supply Co. convenience store debuted in August, and local restaurants The Kitchen and The Annie, along with Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Jamba Juice, Be Relax, Jetero Market, Semi-Sweet Confectionary and a LEGO Store will open along with the expansion on Oct. 22.
An iShoppes duty-free store will begin welcoming shoppers in November, ahead of Thanksgiving, and local favorite Velvet Taco will open in 2025 along with two additional iShoppes duty-free concepts, Hip and Humble and Urban Crave, as more airlines transition flights to the new gates.
Terminal B work continues
Also underway is the transformation of Terminal B at IAH, led by United Airlines in partnership with the city and Houston Airports. The $2.55 billion initiative aims to modernize the original terminal, which opened in June 1969, improving the passenger experience and operational efficiency. Upon completion in 2026, the revitalized terminal is expected to be able to process 36 million passengers a year.