On December 14, just in time for the holiday travel season, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) inaugurated a new pick-up area, the International Arrivals Curb. This long-awaited improvement addresses passenger frustrations with the former temporary curb, offering six dedicated lanes designed to streamline international arrivals and reduce congestion. Two more lanes will open in January 2025.

The temporary curb, opened in 2022, was needed so IAH could advance the construction of the $1.458 billion international terminal. "The bane of our existence, the temporary Terminal E curb, is finally closed," said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. "This marks a new chapter in how we serve our passengers, fulfilling our commitment to providing a world-class experience while laying the groundwork for the future of international travel in Houston."

Quicklinks:

Navigating the New International Arrivals Curb

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IAH - International Arrivals Curb

 

Arriving Passengers

Passengers who clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection exit into the International Arrivals 'Meet and Greet' area and then follow a new hallway out to the new International Arrivals Curb. Airport workers will then guide passengers to the needed pick-up location. At that point, passengers should order a ride through a ride-share app, hail a taxi from the taxi stand, or alert their family member or friend that they are ready to be picked up.

Picking Up a Passenger

From North Terminal Road, drivers should follow the signs for Terminals C/DE. Signage then signals to the Terminal E International Arrivals Curb. Signage directs vehicles toward the left of North Terminal Road, where a dedicated lane, separated from traffic by a barrier, guides vehicles off North Terminal Road and onto the new International Arrivals Curb. Houston Airports Landside Agents and law enforcement direct drivers to their respective pick-up points: private vehicles, taxis, and ride shares. If you are picking up a passenger, use cellphone lots. Do not circle the curb.

 

Navigate Like the Moon RACER

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IAH - Test drive

In partnership with Intuitive Machines, Houston Airports invited the Moon RACER to test drive the new curb on December 12. The lunar rover—developed at the Houston Spaceport—is a finalist for a NASA contract under the Artemis campaign, which seeks to return astronauts to the Moon by 2028. This test drive went smoothly and reminded us that “Houston’s identity as Space City is built on a foundation of innovation, connectivity, and bold ambitions," as Jack Fischer, VP of Intuitive Machines and retired NASA astronaut, said.

Bush Airport opened in June 1969 with a handful of international destinations, just as man prepared to land on the Moon. Today, 55 years later, Bush Airport is preparing to open its new international terminal, which offers nonstop flights to 195 destinations across five continents. Intuitive Machines is working to not only return man to the Moon but also create the technology needed for man to roam the lunar surface.

 

Happy Travel to Houston!

 

Photos: Courtesy IAH