Tunes of Otis Redding, The Doors, the Steve Miller band and many more filled the terminals. Hippies roamed free, offering peace to smiling passengers and good times continued throughout the day to celebrate the 40th anniversary of George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).

“This celebration is exciting for so many different reasons,” said Eric Potts, Houston Airport System interim director. “Before IAH, Houston had not broken into the top 10 cities in the U.S. Now, Houston stands as the fourth largest city in the United States, and IAH has played a major role in facilitating that growth.”

A VIP ceremony filled with members of the community, airport employees and VIPs, which included Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, Council Member Ronald Green and Captain AJ High, the first pilot to fly into IAH.

To make the day even more special, Congresswoman Jackson-Lee presented a certificate of Congressional resolution in recognition of George Bush Intercontinental Airport on the occasion of the 40th Anniversary.

“IAH is a critical component of the Houston economy, supporting 151,000 jobs and contributing over $24 billion in economic benefits to the Houston region,” said Congresswoman Jackson-Lee. “Over 7 hundred million people have passed through IAH’s gates since its opening and has grown to become a world-class international gateway to the world.”

Council Member Green presented a proclamation on behalf of Houston’s Mayor Bill White, proclaiming June 8, 2009 as George Bush Intercontinental 40th Anniversary Day.

“I am a native Houstonian, so I grew up with this airport,” said Green. “It’s a great day to see how it’s grown and how many flights come in and out of IAH. And now I find myself with my own three year old and he’s marveled by this airport. I think Houston has done well.”

“IAH has grown to what it is today because of the vision and the visionaries,” said Captain High, as he commented on the airport’s growth over the years.

A birthday cake equipped with 40 candles was sharedwith passengers and guests who also enjoyed 40th anniversary memorabilia which included a poster showcasing the four decades of IAH, chocolate and magnets. Costume contests took place throughout the terminals and those dressed in the far out fashions took passengers by surprise.