The Houston Airport System (HAS) has found a way to improve customer service for passengers on air carriers that contribute nearly $750 million dollars in business to the local economy, raise revenue for the airport and accommodate the strategic growth expected in international travel, all by building a new passenger lounge called the Executive Club, in Terminal D at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

The business class lounge – which opened March 31, 2009 – is accommodating passengers from four of the premier air carriers at IAH – Singapore, Emirates, Lufthansa Airlines, and Qatar Airways.

The 6,500 square foot facility cost roughly $323 per square foot to build, which is considerably less than the $500 to $800 dollars per square foot range paid to construct most airport travel lounges and clubs.

“We were really pressed to think outside of the box on this one and come up with a creative solution because these major air carriers were anxious about having a lounge as soon as possible,” explains Jeff Kelly, airport business development manager for HAS. He says the project was developed in record time and on a very cost efficient budget but is stylish enough to serve premier passengers.

Some of the air carriers had offered to personally have their own lounges built using their money, “but since there was only space for one lounge at this time, we wanted to create a fair and level playing field,” says Kelly, “so to help address the need for all of these airlines the airport decided to build the lounge.”

"We're very pleased about the new Executive Lounge in Terminal D that will be available for our first and business class passengers," said Mark Adams, airport services manager, Emirates, Houston. "The lounge is spacious and offers comfort and convenience that our customers will certainly appreciate. Our thanks to Houston Airport System and DNC Catering for providing this as it compliments Emirates' worldwide lounge network."

Each of the airlines using the lounge pays HAS a set rate per passenger and these payments will allow the airport to recoup the money it spent building the $1.8 million way station. The airlines also pay for the contract to provide food and beverages in the facility.