Expanded terminal signals 'growth and innovation' as Houston positions itself as a key player on the global stage.
HOUSTON – At 7 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22, Houston Airports unveiled the Terminal D-West Pier, a 160,000-square-foot expansion of the existing Terminal D at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), marking a significant milestone in the airport’s modernization efforts.
“This new Terminal D-West Pier is more than just an addition—it’s a statement about Houston’s commitment to growth and innovation,” said Houston Mayor John Whitmire. “It boosts our economy by creating jobs, but it also reminds us that we must continue modernizing all our airport infrastructure to meet the high standard this pier has set.”
The new pier features six gates, D1 through D6, providing greater flexibility to meet the growing demand from both passengers and airlines by accommodating either wide-body or narrow-body aircraft. The Terminal D-West Pier is the length of a 7-story building. The expansion brings Terminal D’s total footprint to nearly 500,000 square feet, offering design features like a copper-colored ceiling inspired by Houston’s live oak trees, a 380-foot LED wall and comfortable seating equipped with cup holders and modern charging ports. Passenger amenities include a mother’s room, a companion care changing room, sensory room and restrooms with smart technology.
Sixteen new retail and dining options have been added, creating 250 new jobs. Local restaurants The Kitchen and The Annie and trusted national brands Einstein Bros. Bagels, Jamba Juice, Houston Supply Co. and LEGO Store are now open. iShoppes Duty-Free, Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen and Be Relax are set to open in November. Local favorite Velvet Taco will debut in 2025, joining additional concessions like Urban Crave and Hip and Humble.
“The Terminal D-West Pier is a game-changer,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “It truly is a world-class facility, and it not only enhances the travel experience but positions Bush Airport for continued growth. Constructing this during live airport operations, amid record passenger travel, was a remarkable feat.”
First International Flights Operating in the IAH Terminal D-West
• At 2:15 p.m. Avianca Airlines to San Salvador, El Salvador will be the first international departure.
Construction of the new pier began in November 2019 with the demolition of the old Terminal C-North. More than 3,000 workers completed over one million hours of work with zero lost-time injuries.
The opening is part of the $1.458 billion IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP), which also included the 2023 refresh of Terminal D. The next major project, the International Central Processor (ICP), is scheduled for completion in two phases in 2025. The ICP will feature ticketing, baggage claim and one of the largest security checkpoints in the country, positioning Bush Airport for future international growth.
Houston Airports is tackling traffic improvements at Bush Airport just in time for the busy holiday season. Learn more here.