HOUSTON- Houston Airports has opened a new TSA Recheck screening area featuring eight lanes exclusively for international travelers flying into George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). 

Passengers arriving from international destinations are required to be screened by TSA only when the passenger is connecting to another destination after entering the U.S.

• Since its opening on August 7, TSA Recheck averages less than 20 minutes to process passengers.
• The new TSA Recheck is the first step in combining three checkpoints into one centralized location. 

The new TSA Recheck is located in a new International Central Processor inside of the Mickey Leland International Terminal which is being constructed under the $1.458 billion IAH Terminal Redevelopment Program (ITRP). 

In the final configuration, a massive 17-lane security checkpoint will combine lanes from the new Recheck, the existing Terminal D checkpoint and the former Terminal E checkpoint - which closed to passengers in April 2020.

The 17-lane TSA security checkpoint will be one of the largest airport checkpoints in the U.S. when it’s completed in 2025, resulting in the permanent closure of the Terminal D checkpoint.   

“The opening of the new TSA Recheck serves as a symbol of the significant progress we continue to make as Houston Airports prepares for the highly anticipated opening of our new, state-of-the-art international terminal,” said Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for Houston Airports. “International passengers arriving in Houston are among the first to get a closer look of the new International Central Processor, which I guarantee will wow airport guests when it opens next year.” 

In March 2024, Houston City Council approved funding for the purchase of new security screening equipment that will allow travelers to leave their laptops, electronics and liquids in their carry-on luggage while no longer needing to raise their arms during a full body scan. The new equipment is capable of screening more passengers and luggage per hour than current equipment. 

“This new terminal and equipment will not only be more convenient for passengers but dramatically raises the level of security,” said Juan Sanchez, Federal Security Director for TSA at George Bush Intercontinental Airport. :It will enhance the passengers experience, make the amazing work our officers do a little easier, and make the traveling public safer! It is a win-win for everyone!”

The new International Central Processor is set to open in two phases. Phase one is scheduled for the first quarter of 2025 when United Airlines opens ticket counters that will service Terminal D and E flights.  The second and final phase is scheduled for late summer of 2025 when international airlines will move ticketing operations from the existing Terminal D lobby to the new facility. 

The former TSA Recheck area is now under construction to become a part of the new International Central Processor. When finished, that area will feature a waiting area for international dignitaries and VIPS, restrooms, offices for airlines and additional restaurants.