This year, George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) celebrates 40 years in business. 2009 also marks the 20th anniversary of the death of George Thomas “Mickey” Leland – a significant name around IAH and the world.

During six terms in congress and five years as a Texas state legislator, Leland focused much needed attention to issues on health and hunger and rallied for support. To honor his hard work and dedications, the city of Houston decided to name IAH’s international terminal after him.

If you visit the Mickey Leland International Terminal, also known as Terminal D which houses nine international carriers, you’ll run into the former Houston Congressman memorialized in Bronze. The art piece, named “Mickey Leland” by Ed Dwight, depicts Congressman Leland reaching out to children.

Leland’s widow, Alison Leland, was honored when Terminal D was named after him.

“When they named the international terminal after Mickey, that seemed fitting given that he had a passionate love for international affairs, travel, people, discovery and an effort to want to make a difference in the world,” said Alison. “He clearly thought that his responsibilities extended far beyond the 18th Congressional district. He called himself a citizen of the world.”

Although some recent construction was done in Terminal D to help make room for new international airlines like Emirates and Singapore Airlines, more plans are underway for additional expansion of the international area.

Design for a new 176,000 square foot, six gate pier and ramp addition for new large and wide body aircraft will kick off this month with construction plans to begin in 2011.

The renovation of Terminal D also includes upgrades to the air conditioning, electrical and plumbing systems, security for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) passenger screening, baggage handling and telecommunications.

The expansion and the history of Mickey Leland will be featured in an upcoming Houston Airports Today special focusing on the 40th anniversary of IAH.