The details
Houston Airport System’s officials said the new ticketing lobby will be temporarily exclusive to United Airlines passengers.
According to the news release, the ticketing lobby will include 10 Transportation Security Administration lanes, as well as a new 11-lane departures curb that will restore drop-off access at Terminal E for the first time since 2021.
Additionally, officials said the new ticketing lobby will allow United Airlines passengers flying from Terminal E to check in at the same terminal, as opposed to their current requirement to check in at Terminal C.
"This is a big win for travelers," Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for the Houston Airport System, said in a statement. "Passengers flying out of Terminal E will now have more space, faster security and a better check-in experience. This opening also helps relieve congestion at Terminal C, improving the passenger experience at Bush Airport."
Some context
IAH officials said the new ticketing lobby is coming as airport officials gear up for spring break holidays that are expected to see around 1.8 million travelers between March 6-17.
According to the release, the new ticketing lobby will eventually evolve into the airport’s upcoming International Central Processor.
The ICP project is the final phase of IAH’s $1.46 billion Terminal Redevelopment Program. The program, which also included the construction of the recently completed Terminal D-West Pier, is the single largest investment the city of Houston has contributed to IAH, Szczesniak said in a previous interview with Community Impact.
According to the news release, the ICP project will:
- Relocate foreign carriers from Terminal D ticketing to the ICP’s ticketing hall
- Include 17 TSA security lanes
- Launch a new baggage handling system and concessions
Officials noted the new Terminal E Ticketing Lobby will be exclusive to United Airlines customers until the ICP opens later this year.
“Expanding security lanes, improving check-in and reducing congestion are steps in the right direction—but our job isn’t done,” Houston Mayor John Whitmire said in a statement. “I know Houston Airports will continue to prioritize the highest standards of efficiency, safety and customer service.”
What’s next
As previously reported by Community Impact, IAH officials are expecting to open the ICP by the end of this summer.
