Airport Guide to George Bush Intercontinental (IAH)

Airport Overview

Terminal Transfer | Getting into Town | Car Parking | Information Desks | Airport Facilities

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and dining and shopping options in this airport are no exception. With more than 50 retail and food options throughout the five terminals, George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston has plenty to keep travellers busy.

The downside of this huge airport is that it can be very confusing for those passing through for the first time, and as a result of its size a fair amount of time needs to be allocated for getting to your gate – this can be a bit stressful if you have a tight connection. While quite efficient and not known for long delays, the airport maintains an almost cheesy 1970s facade – perhaps in line with the Dallas theme?

Flights to George Bush Intercontinental Airport are available from many major cities, including London, Amsterdam, Paris, Chicago, Toronto, Mexico City, Washington DC, Sao Paulo, Atlanta, Tokyo, and Moscow.

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Terminal Transfer

A complimentary above-ground TermaLink train connects all five terminals for passengers’ convenience. It allows passengers to travel within the airport without having to go through security again. An underground inter-terminal train, which is open to the public, also operates between the five terminals and the airport hotel.

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Getting into Town

Taxi: Taxis are available outside all terminals. All destinations within Houston’s city limits from/to Bush Intercontinental Airport are charged according to the flat zone rate or the metre rate, whichever is less. It costs approximately $45 to get downtown.

Bus: Airport Direct buses, at a charge of $4.50 one way, operate every 30 minutes and have a number of stops downtown. Bus stops are located just outside Terminal C. Shuttles and shared-ride services are also available. Costs vary, depending on your destination.

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Car Parking

A number of parking options are available. Different car parks are available to ensure you are able to park close to the terminal. Rates start at $2 in terminal car parks.

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Information Desks

Visitor information centres are located near the baggage claim in Terminals A, B and C, and outside customs in Terminal D.

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Airport Facilities

Money and communications: Chase Bank ATMS are scattered throughout the airport. Currency exchange booths operate in Terminal D, both before and after security.

Luggage: SmartCarte baggage carts are available for hire at $4.

Conference and business: A number of airport hotels have conference facilities. The Houston Airport Marriott is located in the centre of the terminal complex and is accessible by train (free). The hotel has a business centre with meeting rooms and office facilities.

Other facilities: Airport lounges are available for the following airlines: Air France, British Airways, Continental Airlines, Delta, KLM and Lufthansa. Terminal C has an interfaith chapel.

Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available at a rate of $9.95 per day from SprintPCS, or $7.95 from Boingo.

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