Houston Bush Airport Opens New $2.6 Billion Terminal B With 22 Gates and Local Restaurants

Traveling through Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) just got a major upgrade. United Airlines has officially opened its new Terminal B North Concourse, a $2.6 billion redevelopment project designed to expand airport capacity and improve the experience for millions of travelers passing through Houston.

Opened to the public on October 22, 2026, the new three-level facility spans approximately 765,000 square feet and adds 22 mainline gates. It also introduces an expanded selection of dining and retail options, family-friendly amenities, and what United describes as the largest airline club in the Americas.

For Houston residents who frequently fly out of Bush Airport, the opening marks a significant milestone in the airport's ongoing transformation.

A $2.6 Billion Investment in Houston's Airport

The new Terminal B North Concourse is the centerpiece of United Airlines' broader $2.6 billion Terminal B Transformation Program.

The project replaces aging airport facilities dating back to 1969 with modern infrastructure designed to accommodate the airline's growing operations in Houston. The redevelopment also includes improvements to the Terminal B South Concourse, bringing the terminal's total planned gate count to 48.

According to United, the expanded facilities will increase the number of passengers the airline can accommodate on peak travel dates by 40% compared with 2023.

The investment reflects Houston's importance as one of United's major domestic and international hubs, connecting local travelers to destinations across the United States, Latin America, and beyond.

22 New Gates and More Room for Travelers

One of the biggest additions is the North Concourse's 22 new mainline gates, designed to accommodate larger, more modern aircraft.

The three-level facility features expanded seating and boarding areas, high ceilings, and large windows that provide views of the airfield. Every United flight departing from the new North Concourse will also use a jet bridge, allowing passengers to board directly from the terminal through a climate-controlled connection.

The project includes several infrastructure improvements intended to support the increased passenger volume, including an upgraded baggage-handling system with tracking technology and additional airport roadway and curbside capacity.

For Houston travelers, these improvements are intended to make the journey through Bush Airport more convenient while giving United additional room to expand its flight operations.

The Largest Airline Club in the Americas

Another major highlight is the new United Club, which spans 54,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 800 guests.

Located on the concourse's mezzanine level, the lounge is being recognized as the largest airline club in North and South America.

Travelers with eligible access can enjoy several amenities, including:

• A 1,350-square-foot outdoor terrace overlooking the airfield

• Two full-service bars

• Two buffet stations

• Eleven private phone rooms

• Dedicated dining and work areas

• High-speed Wi-Fi and power outlets throughout the space

The lounge is designed to give travelers more room to work, eat, or relax before their flights. Its design also incorporates elements inspired by Houston's landscape, aerospace history, and cultural diversity.

Access is available to eligible travelers through qualifying United Club memberships, credit cards, and premium-cabin tickets, subject to the airline's access policies.

Houston Restaurants and Local Favorites Take Center Stage

For travelers who want a taste of Houston before leaving the city, the new concourse brings several familiar local names into the airport.

More than 105,000 square feet of the facility is dedicated to dining, retail, and concessions, with restaurants and businesses representing Houston's diverse food scene.

Among the local concepts featured are:

• Blood Bros. BBQ: The Houston barbecue favorite brings its signature smoked meats and flavors to the airport.

• Blue Bell Creameries: Travelers can enjoy ice cream from the beloved Texas brand.

• B&B Butchers & Restaurant: The Houston steakhouse adds another dining option for passengers.

• Rosie Cannonball: The Montrose restaurant brings its Italian-inspired menu to the terminal.

• Pizaro's Pizza: Known for its Neapolitan-style pizza, the Houston business joins the new dining lineup.

• Katz Coffee: The local coffee brand gives travelers another option for a caffeine stop before boarding.

The terminal also includes familiar national brands such as Starbucks, Raising Cane's, Jimmy John's, Jersey Mike's, Smashburger, Jamba, Auntie Anne's, and Cinnabon.

The combination of local restaurants and national chains gives passengers more choices while highlighting businesses that are part of Houston's culinary identity.

Family-Friendly Amenities and Public Art

Beyond additional gates and restaurants, the new Terminal B North Concourse incorporates features designed to make airport visits more comfortable for different types of travelers.

Families can take advantage of a soft-play area for children, while a dedicated sensory room provides a quieter environment for passengers with sensory sensitivities.

The facility also features 11 sets of restrooms and expanded seating areas.

Another standout feature is the terminal's public art program, which includes 10 major installations inspired by Houston's bayou ecosystem, cultural diversity, history, and innovation. The artwork adds a local connection to the airport experience while reflecting the city that travelers are arriving in or departing from.

What the New Terminal B Means for Houston

The opening of Terminal B North is more than an airport renovation. It represents a significant investment in Houston's transportation infrastructure and its role as an international travel hub.

With 22 additional gates, expanded passenger facilities, more dining options, and a larger airline lounge, the new concourse gives United more capacity to serve its growing network from Houston.

For residents, the improvements could mean more flight options over time and a more modern airport experience when traveling through Bush Intercontinental.

The $2.6 billion Terminal B transformation is also part of United's broader investment in Houston. The airline reports investing more than $3.5 billion in George Bush Intercontinental Airport since 2015.

As the remaining improvements move forward, Terminal B is positioned to play an important role in the future of air travel in the Houston region.

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