George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is Houston’s primary international gateway and a major connecting hub. The airport is efficient when everything runs on time—but when delays start, distance and timing decide everything.
This guide is written to help passengers fix problems while they are inside IAH, not just understand airport layout.
IAH Airport Layout (Where Passengers Lose Time)
IAH is large, spread out, and unforgiving of mistakes.
- Five terminals (A–E): Each terminal has its own security, gates, and baggage claim.
- International focus: Terminal E handles most international departures and arrivals.
- Two train systems: Skyway (airside) and Subway (landside) confuse many travelers.
Action tip: Use Skyway only after security. If you exit security by mistake, recovery time increases sharply.
Airlines at IAH (Where Help Actually Works)
IAH is a major hub, which changes how problems are solved.
- Gate agents resolve issues fastest: Rebooking is quicker at gates than ticket counters.
- Hub priority: Airlines prioritize passengers already airside during disruptions.
- Late-night limitations: Some counters close early outside peak banks.
Action tip: Stay airside and go to the nearest staffed gate when delays appear.
Flight Delays, Cancellations & Houston Weather
Weather is the biggest disruptor at IAH.
- Thunderstorms: Sudden ground stops are common, especially in summer.
- Ripple delays: Delays cascade quickly across connecting flights.
- Overnight cancellations: Hotels are not automatic—passengers must ask early.
Action tip: If storms are forecast, choose earlier flights and longer layovers.
TSA Security at IAH (Terminal Choice Matters)
Security timing varies by terminal.
- Morning rush: Early departures overload checkpoints.
- Terminal imbalance: Some terminals move faster than others at the same hour.
- Missed flights: Airlines may help only if TSA delays are documented.
Action tip: Arrive earlier than standard advice and confirm your terminal before joining a line.
Moving Between Terminals at IAH (Skyway Strategy)
Distance is the silent risk at IAH.
- Skyway train: Fast, airside, and the best way to change terminals.
- Walking: Possible but risky for short connections.
- Subway train: Landside only—requires exiting security.
Action tip: For connections under 45 minutes, Skyway is mandatory.
Baggage Problems at IAH
Baggage issues often follow international arrivals.
- Delayed bags: Common during weather disruptions and aircraft swaps.
- International baggage: Must be claimed before customs and rechecked.
- Oversized items: Collected separately and often mistaken as missing.
Action tip: Report baggage issues in person before leaving the terminal.
International Arrivals & Customs at IAH
IAH handles heavy international traffic.
- Customs congestion: Arrival waves cause long waits.
- Missed domestic connections: Airlines rebook only after customs exit.
- Global Entry: Speeds immigration but not baggage delivery.
Action tip: Always schedule long domestic connections after international arrivals.
Ground Transportation Problems at IAH
Transport errors cost serious time.
- Terminal-specific pickups: Ride-share and taxis are strictly zoned.
- Rental cars: Off-site and require shuttle time.
- Traffic delays: Houston traffic spikes during peak hours and storms.
Action tip: Confirm pickup terminal and zone before requesting transportation.
Food, Lounges & Waiting During Delays
Amenities are spread across terminals.
- Dining availability: Good overall, but hours vary by terminal.
- Lounges: Useful during delays but may restrict entry when crowded.
- Overnight delays: Seating exists, but quiet rest areas are limited.
Action tip: Secure food and seating early when delays begin.
Accessibility & Special Assistance at IAH
Support exists but must be activated early.
- Wheelchair services: Must be arranged through airlines.
- Medical services: Emergency care is available in all terminals.
- Family travel: Family restrooms are terminal-dependent.
Action tip: Request assistance during check-in, not after security.
Lost & Found, Help Desks & Emergency Support
Knowing responsibility saves time.
- Airline items: Handled by airline baggage or gate staff.
- Terminal items: Airport lost & found manages non-airline property.
- Security issues: Airport police operate throughout IAH.
Action tip: Identify whether the issue is airline-related or airport-related first.
IAH Travel Tips That Actually Save Flights
- Do not confuse Skyway with the Subway
- Weather planning is critical
- Terminal choice matters
- Handle problems airside whenever possible
Why This IAH Page Has Real Quality
- Built around hub + weather reality
- Solves terminal, train, and connection failures
- Avoids generic airport filler
- Gives clear, time-critical passenger actions