United Airlines opens expanded terminal facilities at Houston airport
United Airlines has announced the opening of the upgraded Terminal B North at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston, Texas, introducing additional aircraft gates and expanded passenger facilities at one of the airline’s major operating hubs.
The new terminal facilities are scheduled to welcome passengers from 22 October 2026, following a redevelopment that adds 22 mainline aircraft gates and approximately 765,000 square feet (71,070 square metres) of terminal space.
The expansion represents a significant infrastructure development at Houston’s main international airport, where United maintains a substantial operational presence, with more than 500 daily departures and over 14,000 employees in the Houston area.
New gates expand airport infrastructure
A central feature of the Terminal B North development is the addition of 22 gates designed for mainline aircraft operations.
The expanded facilities are intended to support United’s passenger operations at Houston, providing additional gate infrastructure and modernised terminal space.
The redevelopment also includes approximately 105,000 square feet (9,755 square metres) of retail and concession space, with new shopping and dining options planned for passengers.
According to United Airlines, the terminal incorporates family-oriented facilities, including a children’s play area and a sensory room.
The new development also features 10 Houston-inspired art installations, reflecting the airline’s efforts to integrate local cultural elements into the passenger environment.
While the terminal is opening to passengers on 22 October, some retail and concession facilities are expected to become available subsequently.
United introduces expanded passenger lounge
Alongside the terminal redevelopment, United Airlines has introduced a new United Club covering approximately 54,000 square feet (5,017 square metres).
The airline describes the facility as the largest airline club in the Americas, with seating capacity for approximately 800 passengers.
The lounge includes an outdoor terrace overlooking airport operations, two full-service bars and two buffet stations.
According to United, the new United Club operates daily between 5:30 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Central Time.
The lounge forms part of the broader investment in passenger facilities at Houston, complementing the expansion of gate capacity and terminal infrastructure.
Houston remains a major United Airlines hub
The opening of Terminal B North strengthens the infrastructure available to United Airlines at George Bush Intercontinental Airport.
With more than 500 daily departures and a workforce exceeding 14,000 employees in Houston, the airline maintains an extensive operational presence in the region.
The addition of new mainline gates provides further infrastructure to support the airline’s existing network and future operational requirements.
However, United has not specified how many additional daily flights or new destinations will result directly from the terminal expansion.
The development reflects continued investment in airport infrastructure as airlines seek to improve passenger handling capabilities, modernise facilities and accommodate evolving operational needs.
The opening of Terminal B North marks a further stage in the development of United’s Houston hub, combining additional aircraft gate infrastructure with expanded passenger services.
