Located about 23 miles north of downtown Houston, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is one of the largest and busiest airports in the United States. Serving as a major hub for United Airlines, IAH connects travelers to over 180 destinations worldwide, including nonstop routes to Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

The airport spans five passenger terminals (A through E), linked by an efficient Skyway train and Subway people mover. With its extensive route network, modernized terminals, and frequent business travel traffic, IAH is a cornerstone of Texas’s air travel infrastructure. Travelers benefit from spacious concourses, luxury lounges, and upgraded dining options showcasing Houston’s culinary scene.

IAH’s ongoing Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP) continues to modernize facilities and enhance passenger flow, making it one of the most advanced airports in North America.

TSA security checkpoints are located in every terminal at IAH, with several offering dedicated TSA PreCheck, CLEAR Plus, and priority lanes for faster screening.

• Terminal A: Primarily domestic flights via Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier.
• Terminal B: United Express regional operations.
• Terminal C: United’s main domestic hub.
• Terminal D: Serves most international airlines.
• Terminal E: United’s international departures and premium lounges.

Security screening typically opens around 3:30 a.m. and remains active until the final departures of the evening. The busiest periods are early mornings (5:00–8:00 a.m.) and late afternoons (4:00–7:00 p.m.), especially in United-operated terminals.

Passengers can use CLEAR lanes can reduce average wait times by more than 50%.

IAH’s layout can feel large, but it’s one of the most efficient hub airports in the U.S. For quick connections, follow Skyway signage and plan at least 45 minutes between flights. If you’re departing from Terminal D or E, check for early international screening lines — they open around 4 a.m. and close late.

What airlines operate from IAH?

Is TSA PreCheck or CLEAR available at Houston Intercontinental?

How long does it take to get between terminals?