Houston Airports is celebrating a significant milestone this week in constructing the new international terminal at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). Crews poured the first layer of concrete for the new 11-lane International Departures Curb, a key component of the $1.458 billion IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP).

This initial concrete pour, known as the structural slab, creates a foundation of rebar and concrete that will ultimately support a driving surface ranging from 3 to 16 inches of concrete.

"This is a significant step forward,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. "The new international terminal will transform the passenger experience at IAH, and the anticipated completion of the Departures Curb represents a major milestone in achieving that goal, which will increase capacity along our the curbs as passenger traffic is expected to only increase in the coming years.”

The ITRP is a comprehensive capital improvement project designed to enhance IAH's capacity and capabilities as a global air travel hub. Houston Airports welcomed a record-breaking 60.1 million passengers in 2023, and the ITRP is a strategic investment to accommodate future growth.

The new international terminal will feature a streamlined passenger experience from curb to gate, including a state-of-the-art baggage handling system, an expanded Terminal D concourse and modern amenities. The project is scheduled for completion in 2025.