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Select airlines move from IAH Terminal D to E

IAH Terminal E

Please note: This page will be updated as additional airlines transition to Terminal E.

International passengers departing from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) will experience a new, streamlined check-in process beginning Friday, Feb. 27, as Houston Airports transitions Air France and KLM from Terminal D to the newly expanded Terminal E. Passengers are encouraged to confirm their check-in location directly with their airline before arriving at the airport.

The move marks a major milestone in the IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP) and the beginning of its final phase.

Passengers will now check in at Terminal E, clear security at a 17-lane TSA checkpoint—which offers TSA Precheck and CLEAR+ —and then proceed to their departure gate. Lounge locations remain unchanged.

“This is about giving our passengers the world-class experience they deserve the moment they walk into the terminal,” said Jim Szczesniak, director of aviation for Houston Airports. “As we prepare to welcome soccer fans and introduce new nonstop flights to Rome this summer, Terminal E serves as a source of pride for Houstonians and reflects the city’s role as a leading international gateway and improves efficiency for our passengers.”

Terminal E Features:

  • Self-service bag drop stations
  • Self-service check-in kiosks — select an airline, choose a language and scan a passport to begin
  • A 17-lane TSA screening area, one of the largest in the U.S.
  • Expanded curb space with 11 departures lanes and 8 arrivals lanes
  • Pre-security dining including hot food, coffee, alcohol and grab-and-go items
  • Secure-side dining such as Einstein Bros. Bagels and Chick-fil-A
  • A high-definition LED Oculus visible from both Departures and Arrivals levels

The new Amadeus bag drop system, widely used at major European airports, allows passengers of participating airlines to check luggage in just a few steps or receive help from an airline agent. IAH is the first airport in Texas and the second in the nation to deploy the technology.

Supporting a Seamless Transition

  • Customer service representatives in bright orange polos are stationed in Terminals D and E to assist passengers.

  • Air France and KLM check-in counters now operate exclusively in Terminal E. Passengers arriving at Terminal D will be directed to make a 10-minute walk to Terminal E.

  • Parking access remains unchanged. International passengers may continue using the C/D/E Garage, or park in the A/B Garage, take the Subway directly to Terminal E and proceed to Departures.

Additional airlines will continue to transition from Terminal D to Terminal E in phases over the next few weeks.

The Bigger Picture

The IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program is modernizing the international travel experience for millions of passengers. By centralizing check-in operations, upgrading baggage systems and expanding security capacity, IAH is preparing for continued international growth and welcoming the world to Houston.

Terminal E is the next step in delivering a more efficient, organized and Houston-friendly experience for global travelers. The program positions IAH to handle increased international demand ahead of the 2026 World Cup and beyond.

Questions? We’ve got answers

Questions? We’ve got answers

We’re here to help. Review our FAQ section for clear, straightforward answers about checking in at Terminal E.

When you arrive, look for our customer service representatives in bright orange polos — orange means we can help.

If you are flying Air France or KLM, as of Friday, Feb. 27, you will now check in at Terminal E instead of Terminal D.

You will:

  1. Arrive at Terminal E
  2. Check in and drop your bags
  3. Clear security at the 17-lane TSA checkpoint
  4. Then walk to your departure gate in either Terminal E or Terminal D

Lounges and gates remain the same. Only the check-in location has moved.

Terminal E’s new check-in counters, baggage handling system and expanded security checkpoint are now fully operational. This allows airlines to begin transitioning in phases ahead of peak international travel and the 2026 World Cup.

The move also prepares IAH for new international service, including ITA Airways’ nonstop flights to Rome beginning in May.

The transition allows airlines to use Terminal E’s new baggage handling system and larger security checkpoint while maintaining existing gate operations.

This improves passenger flow, reduces congestion and centralizes most international check-in operations in one modern facility.

No.

Terminal E was designed to be clear and easy to navigate. Signs guide you from curb to check-in to security. Airport staff in bright orange polos are stationed in Terminals D and E to assist.

If you prefer speaking with an airline agent instead of using self-service technology, assistance is always available.

Terminal E offers:

  • Expanded curb space for easier drop-off
  • Larger check-in areas
  • Self-service bag drop for quicker processing
  • Airline agents are available to assist with luggage

Terminal E provides more space and reduces crowding, making it easier for families managing strollers and carry-ons.

No. Terminal E is designed for efficiency.

You will find:

  • A 17-lane TSA screening area, one of the largest in the U.S.
  • Passport-enabled check-in kiosks
  • Bag drop stations that allow quick processing

The expanded layout helps reduce bottlenecks during peak periods.

Terminal E features modern Amadeus bag drop stations used at major international airports.

Passengers of participating airlines can scan their passports, follow simple on-screen instructions, and place their bags on the belt. The screen guides you step by step.

If you prefer assistance at any time, airline agents are immediately available. No passenger is required to use self-service.

IAH is the first airport in Texas and the second in the nation to deploy this technology.

You will not be stranded.

Customer service representatives in orange polos are stationed in Terminal D to assist during the transition.

Terminal E is a short walk away, about 10 minutes with elevators, and clear signage will guide you.

You can also access Terminal E from any terminal via the Subway.

No.

Volaris and Viva will continue operating from the Terminal D Ticketing Lobby. The space will also support additional international traffic during the World Cup this summer.

No.

You may continue to use the C/D/E Garage.

You may also park in the A/B Garage, take the Subway directly to Terminal E and proceed to E Departures.

Passengers will notice:

  • Larger, brighter check-in areas
  • Expanded curb capacity
  • A 17-lane TSA checkpoint
  • New pre-security dining options, including hot food and coffee
  • Secure-side options such as Einstein Bros. Bagels and Chick-fil-A
  • A high-definition LED Oculus visible from both Departures and Arrivals levels

For many former Terminal D passengers, this will be their first experience inside the newly modernized Terminal E.

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