The International Arrivals Curb addresses passenger challenges with eight lanes for pick-up and a modern design that prioritizes safety and efficiency.
On December 14, Houston Airports opened the International Arrivals Curb, a new pick-up area that will unclog the exit to Bush Airport.
Since January 2022, people have dealt with cramped, chaotic conditions at the temporary Terminal E pick-up zone on South Terminal Road. The temporary curb was needed so Houston Airports could advance construction of the $1.458 billion international terminal.
The new curb addresses passenger challenges with eight dedicated pick-up lanes, expanded capacity and a modern design that prioritizes safety and efficiency. Six of its eight lanes debut in time for December holiday travel, with the remaining two lanes opening in January 2025.
WATCH | Houston Airports Director of Aviation Jim Szczesniak details the perks and purpose of the International Arrivals Curb.
TOP STORY EXTRA
Behind the Scenes: How Houston Airports employees readied the new IAH International Arrivals Curb
On December 14, Bush Airport opened its brand-new International Arrivals Curb, a long-awaited solution to traffic chaos and passenger frustration. But before the first car pulls up, the curb has already seen hundreds of “arrivals” in a comprehensive rehearsal designed to test every element of the passenger experience.
The large-scale exercise brought together nearly 300 Houston Airports employees and hundreds more who used the trial for training. For those who participated, it was more than a test run—it was a chance to step into the shoes of international passengers and help shape a world-class welcome to Houston. READ MORE
ARTS
Dale Chihuly’s largest airport installation unveiled inside new IAH International Terminal
Coastal Prairie Fiori, inspired by the native flora of Houston’s Gulf Coast region, features 537 unique, hand-blown glass elements suspended over 17 TSA lanes in the new facility. READ MORE.
2024 STATE OF THE AIRPORTS
Houston Airports celebrates record-setting achievements, unveils bold vision for future
Houston Airports achieved new heights in 2024, as revealed during the inaugural State of the Airports address of Jim Szczesniak, who was appointed director of aviation by City Council in February 2024.
During the annual address, hosted by the Greater Houston Partnership at the Marriott Marquis in Downtown Houston on December 5, Szczesniak said, "We are more than just runways and terminals," Szczesniak told an audience of 640 people. "We are the heartbeat of this city, a gateway to the world and an economic engine that drives Houston's prosperity." READ MORE
Record holiday travel expected at Houston Airports: What passengers need to know
Houston Airports anticipates a 7% increase in holiday travel compared to the same period in 2023. Between Thursday, December 19, and Monday, January 6, an estimated 3.4 million passengers are expected to travel through George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU).
Houston Airports is pulling out all the stops to make this a season of smooth and memorable travel. Passengers will benefit from new traffic and parking solutions, cutting-edge TSA technology, expanded customer service teams and festive holiday activities. READ MORE
HOLIDAY TRAVEL | VIDEO EXTRA
WATCH | Travelers at IAH Terminal A are surprised by a flash mob!
AIRPORT HEROES
Landside Operations: Orchestrating holiday travel
This holiday season, the curbsides at Bush and Hobby airports are humming with frenetic energy. Cars pull up in waves, hazard lights flashing as suitcases tumble out of trunks. Minivans double-park as parents wrangle kids. Ride-shares dart into loading zones, while travelers with anxious eyes and tight schedules rush toward terminals.
Amid the clamor, a mighty team works quietly, ensuring the system doesn’t collapse under the weight of the holidays. READ MORE
UPDATE
Houston Airports reduced traffic, improved experience during record Thanksgiving
Houston Airports set a new milestone during the 2024 Thanksgiving travel period, welcoming 2.2 million passengers through IAH and HOU between November 21 and December 2.
Strategic traffic innovations, modernized restrooms and enhanced customer service transformed the busiest Thanksgiving on record into a seamless experience for travelers. READ MORE
Eight Smiths Detection CT scanners eliminate the need for passengers to remove electronics and approved liquids from carry-on bags while operators inspect baggage in detail, from every angle. READ MORE
Heartwarming help and thoughtful touches: Passengers praise Hobby Airport
Leon Burris did what Houston Airports employees are known for: seeing a need and responding with care. For Milledge and her pup, Leon wasn’t just a team member—he was a hero. READ MORE
