While airlines are cutting domestic departures, they’re doing the opposite internationally, and that means there’s a need for more space to handle all those far-flung flights.
One of the hottest international airports in the country is Houston’s Bush Intercontinental (IAH), Continental Airlines’ home base. Now comes word that CO (that’s the carrier’s code) is working with the Houston Airport System on a $1.2 makeover of Terminal B.
Perhaps the key to the project is the construction of a new Federal Inspections Services facility to accommodate the increasing influx of international flyers into IAH.
The project looks to grow Terminal B into a 1.7 million square foot affair. In addition to the new FIS, the terminal will sport:
– An expanded Automated People Mover;
– Refurbished baggage claims;
– A new South Concourse dedicated to domestic regional jets;
– A new international-capable North Concourse for mainline and regional jets;
– Expanded parking;
– And a North/South Ramp Replacement.
While none of this is dramatic, the net result should be the faster, more efficient movement of flyers from Point A to Point B.
Don’t look for the overnight transformation of Terminal B. Although work is slated to start shortly, officials say construction will take seven to ten years to complete. It will be performed in phases.
© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler
