Photo Courtesy of Houston Airport System

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is set to unveil its highly anticipated Terminal D expansion this month, following several years of construction.  

The new Terminal D-West Pier will open on October 22, adding 160,000 square feet to the terminal to meet growing passenger demand, according to the Houston Airport System. The expansion includes six new gates capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft and up to 10 narrow-body planes. 

The international terminal also provides space for 16 dining concepts, featuring local favorites like The Kitchen and The Annie, alongside national chains such as Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen, Einstein Bros. Bagels, Jamba Juice and a LEGO Store, creating an additional 250 jobs. 

"The opening of the Terminal D-West Pier is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and our partners,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports, in a statement. “This world-class facility will provide a seamless and efficient travel experience for millions of passengers each year. The new pier will provide the necessary capacity so Houston can continue to attract more nonstop flights to cities around the globe." 

Additional amenities include a mother’s room, sensory room, child’s play area, upgraded restrooms, 500 modern lounge seats and eight new art commissions by Houston-based artists, reflecting the city's rich cultural heritage and diversity. 

"We are focused on improving the overall passenger experience at the airport – from parking and traffic to providing modern terminals with the right amenities,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire in a statement. “This project is a major investment in our city's future. 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." 

This expansion is part of the broader IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP), a $1.458 billion investment aimed at modernizing the airport's international travel infrastructure. Earlier phases of the program included the revitalization of the existing Terminal D, which was completed in 2023. 

The final component of the program includes the development of the International Central Processor (ICP), which will feature ticketing counters, baggage claims and a 17-lane security checkpoint—set to be one of the largest in the country. According to the Houston Airport System, the ICP will be completed in two phases. Phase one, slated for winter 2025, will include United Airlines relocating its Terminal E operations to the ICP. Phase two, expected in summer 2025, will involve international airlines transitioning their operations to the new facility. 

Other critical projects underway at IAH include United Airlines’ $2.6 billion expansion and renovation of Terminal B, which is expected to be completed in 2026. 

Learn more about the Houston Airport System during the Partnership’s State of the Airports event on Thursday, Dec. 5.