George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) Terminal B Transformation
In 2023, United Airlines and the Houston Airport System selected PGAL as the Prime Consultant and Architect of Record to design the new Terminal B facility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
Overview
In 2023, United Airlines and the Houston Airport System selected PGAL as the Prime Consultant and Architect of Record to design the new Terminal B facility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). PGAL has partnered with BNP Associates to provide specialized design services related to apron systems and aircraft gate equipment.
The Terminal B North/South Transformation project aims to modernize the terminal, originally opened in 1969, to enhance operational efficiency and the passenger experience. Once complete in 2026, the terminal is projected to serve up to 36 million passengers annually.
PGAL is responsible for the overall architectural design, while BNP leads the design of apron systems, passenger boarding bridges, and aircraft parking configurations.
The transformation of Terminal B, led by United Airlines in partnership with the City of Houston and Houston Airports, will modernize the original terminal and significantly improve passenger experience and operational performance.
PROJECT DETAILS
Design Process Phases
The design process is structured into the following phases:
- Concept Design
- Preliminary Design
- Design Development – including multiple phasing designs
- Bid Documentation
- Construction Administration
BNP’s Design Scope
BNP’s scope of services for design includes:
- Passenger boarding bridges (dual and single bridge gates)
- 400 Hz Ground Power Units
- Preconditioned Air Units
- Advanced Visual Display Guidance Systems
- Aircraft parking layouts (Regional Express / Narrowbody / Widebody)
- Ground service parking designs
Construction Administration Services
BNP Associates will also provide construction administration services to ensure compliance with design and performance requirements, including:
- RFI and submittal reviews
- BNP-witnessed contractor commissioning
- Owner representative, substantial completion commissioning
- Aircraft fit tests – multiple aircraft per gate
Project Completion
Upon completion in 2026, the revamped terminal is expected to process 36 million passengers annually. The final product will include:
- At least 24 new gates on the north concourse
- 16 new gates on the south concourse
- Modifications to 3 existing adjacent C gates
- Modified taxi lanes
- Project Start
- 2023
- Client
- Houston Airport System
- Scope of Service
- Analysis Study
- Conceptual Design
- Schematic Design
- Design Development
- Phasing/Temporary Design
- Bid Documentation
- Construction Administration
- Testing & Commissioning
- Region
- North America
More Project Success Stories
Asia
Changi International Airport (SIN) Terminal 5 Baggage Handling Systems
BNP has been engaged by Changi Airport Group (CAG) to provide consulting services for the new Baggage Handling System (BHS) at the new Terminal 5, as part of Changi International Airport’s expansion plans.
North America
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) Terminal B Transformation
In 2023, United Airlines and the Houston Airport System selected PGAL as the Prime Consultant and Architect of Record to design the new Terminal B facility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
Latin America/Caribbean
A-CDM Technical Assistance at Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez (MEX)
Airport Gurus provided independent technical advisory services to support the implementation of an Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A‑CDM) system at Aeropuerto Internacional de la Ciudad de México (AICM).
Partnering for Results: From Mega-Projects to Mid-Sized Success.
While building on our strong reputation, we aim to showcase our ability to deliver cost-effective solutions for mid-sized projects, educating clients on the latest technologies and ensuring their long-term success.