United Airlines invests $177 million to enhance Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport

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United Airlines invests $177 million to enhance Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport

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Phil Griffith United Vice President of IAH | Official Website

By Sky Industry News

Apr 2, 2025

United Airlines has committed $177 million to enhance its facilities at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston. This investment will fund a new 140,000-square-foot Ground Service Equipment (GSE) Maintenance Facility and a Technical Operations Training Facility (TTC), set for completion in 2027.

The GSE facility aims to improve the airline's efficiency and reliability, benefiting its fleet of over 1,800 ground service vehicles. Meanwhile, the TTC will provide employees with advanced training through a 91,000-square-foot center featuring desktop simulators and scenario-based training. A $6.3 million Move Team Facility will be included, centralizing United's Super Tug operations. These initiatives will facilitate the introduction of over 500 new narrowbody aircraft, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and increase domestic flight capacity.

Phil Griffith, United’s Vice President of IAH, stated, “This investment further supports United’s position as Houston’s carrier of choice.”

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Since 2021, United has invested $32 billion globally in infrastructure and technology, with significant resources allocated to modernizing IAH. The airline's previous Terminal B Transformation project launched with Houston Airport Systems has seen over $2 billion invested to accommodate future passenger needs. The program includes a remodeled ticketing lobby, improved security processing, and new concourses.

The Terminal B South Concourse will be modified to host larger jets with features such as new gates, amenities like sensory rooms, and expanded retail spaces. In early 2025, United also unveiled its United Club Fly at IAH, providing travelers with a quick dining and rest option. This initiative aids those on quick layovers and is accessible to United Club members and premium cabin travelers.

The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) will also benefit from United's investments. In 2021, the airline opened a $352 million Technical Operations Center to optimize service for its aircraft. This complex, housing aircraft maintenance facilities and a parts warehouse, is designed to enhance efficiency and complies with environmental building standards.

Overall, these facility upgrades at IAH and LAX aim to bolster United Airlines' operational effectiveness and passenger experience, underscoring its strategic commitment to U.S. travelers.