Houston Airports is ushering in a new era of international travel with the much-anticipated expansion of Terminal D at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). This state-of-the-art facility promises to enhance the travel experience with additional gates, a variety of new restaurants, shops, and other amenities. In preparation for the grand opening, over 700 dedicated employees are actively participating in extensive familiarization tours. These efforts are crucial to ensuring a smooth transition and operational excellence as they step into the future of air travel.

“Conducting familiarization tours now rather than later is all about productivity,” explained Baris Tellibayraktar, who is part of the Operational Readiness and Airport Transition (ORAT) team leading the tours for Houston Airports. “These tours help employees feel comfortable and confident in their future work surroundings, alleviating anxiety and uncertainty about the new facility.”

Since April 2024, familiarization tours organized by ORAT have been in full swing, preparing over 700 employees for the upcoming expansion of IAH Terminal D. These tours include staff from nearly a dozen airlines, Houston Police, Houston Airports customer service representatives, custodians, and maintenance personnel. Participants have been exploring the new D-West Pier and the TSA Recheck area, which will soon integrate into the innovative International Central Processor (ICP).

During these tours, employees gain a comprehensive understanding of the concourse layout, key areas such as restrooms and concessions, and the advanced technologies throughout the facility. With detailed maps in hand, the ORAT team guides employees through the D-West Pier, highlighting specific zones of interest to ensure they are well-prepared for the transition to the expanded terminal.

“Familiarization tours are a vital component of our operational readiness plan,” added Sharon Estrada, another ORAT Team training coordinator. “By offering employees a firsthand look at the D-West Concourse, we equip them with the knowledge and confidence they need to excel in their roles and contribute to an exceptional passenger experience from day one.”

Airline agents and station managers have been getting acquainted with the new passenger flow and the updated recheck procedures, gearing up for the phased opening of the Mickey Leland International Terminal. Landside and customer service teams have toured the new areas to familiarize themselves with emergency response zones, while International Services staff have observed the new passenger flow, essential for VIP escorts through recheck. TSA employees have also been introduced to their new offices.

The D-West Pier, adding 200,000 square feet to the existing Terminal D, marks a significant leap forward. This expansion features stunning art installations, a new LED feature wall, a copper ceiling designed to mimic sunlight filtering through trees, a sensory room, and a companion care changing room. These enhancements not only elevate the terminal’s aesthetic appeal but also ensure a seamless and efficient operational environment.

As Houston Airports prepares to unveil this major expansion to the public, these familiarization tours are more than logistical exercises—they offer a glimpse into the future of air travel at Bush Airport. By stepping into Terminal D-West, employees are not just learning new routes and procedures; they are becoming part of a visionary leap forward. The ORAT Team’s meticulous efforts ensure that every staff member is ready to meet the demands of this state-of-the-art facility and deliver a world-class passenger experience. This change promises not just a new building, but a seamless, top-tier journey for every traveler passing through Bush Airport.

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