On Sunday, June 7, 2009 the community is invited to come out and celebrate the anniversary of George Bush Intercontinental Airport with us.

The interim director of the Houston Airport System (HAS), Eric Potts will be throwing out the first pitch at the Astros game before their match up with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The Sunday afternoon game begins at 1:05 p.m. and will also include the postgame promotion where children between the ages of 5 – 15 can run the bases.

The popular event which attracts nearly 2,000 participants is also offering special discounts for City of Houston employees and their families.

"We want to share this milestone with the community as our big airport celebrates 40 years of flight," says Rob Wigington, HAS deputy director of the marketing, communications and community affairs.

On Monday, June 8 passengers at Bush Intercontinental will notice special roadway and terminal banners and historic photos dating back to 1969 when the airport opened. We’ll also turn the clock back with employees and volunteers cleaning out their closets and wearing some of the styles of the late 1960’s.

Many concessionaires will participate in the celebration with 40th anniversary specials and discounts.

"As we dusted off the history books for Bush Intercontinental Airport, we found a new appreciation for the contributions of everyone who worked diligently to open IAH in June of 1969," says Wigington.

A VIP ceremony with HAS personnel, dignitaries, Captain A.J. High, the pilot to fly the first flight at IAH, will take place in one of our terminals and 40th Anniversary items will be given to lucky passengers.

You can also watch out for public service announcements, which will begin running soon at IAH that feature former President George Bush.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport Trivia: