Accessibility Services at George Bush Intercontinental Airport

Your Complete Guide to Accessible Travel at IAH

George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) is committed to providing accessible, comfortable, and dignified travel experiences for all passengers. Whether you have mobility limitations, visual or hearing impairments, or other accessibility needs, IAH offers comprehensive services and accommodations designed to make your journey smooth from parking to boarding. Here's everything you need to know about accessibility options at Houston's largest airport.

Accessible Parking: Convenient Options Throughout IAH

IAH provides accessible parking spaces on all levels of terminal parking garages and at all Ecopark facilities, ensuring you can park close to your terminal entrance regardless of which parking option you choose.

• Terminal Parking Garages: Accessible spaces are clearly marked and located on every level near elevator access. These spaces are wider than standard spots to accommodate wheelchair access and feature level surfaces for easy entry and exit.
• Ecopark Facilities: All Ecopark locations offer accessible parking spaces, and importantly, Ecopark shuttles are equipped to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices. Shuttle drivers are trained to assist passengers with accessibility needs.

Need More Information? For specific questions about accessible parking locations, shuttle services, or assistance, contact IAH directly at (281) 233-1786.

Disabled Veteran Parking at IAH

IAH honors the service of disabled veterans with dedicated parking privileges. Disabled veterans with proper identification and license plates or placards can access designated parking areas. For complete information about disabled veteran parking locations, rates, and requirements, visit fly2houston.com/iah/parking/veterans-parking.

Accessible Security Screening: TSA Cares Program

Navigating airport security can be challenging for travelers with disabilities, medical conditions, or special circumstances. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) created TSA Cares specifically to provide additional assistance during the security screening process.

What TSA Cares Offers:

• Answers to questions about screening policies and procedures
• Information about what to expect at the security checkpoint
• Guidance on traveling with medical devices, medications, and mobility aids
• Assistance coordination for your screening experience

Important: Contact TSA Cares at least 72 hours before your travel date to receive the most comprehensive assistance. TSA representatives can walk you through the entire screening process and arrange for additional support if needed. Find complete contact information and call-in hours at TSA Cares.

Ground Transportation: Accessible Options to and from IAH

Getting to and from the airport is a crucial part of accessible travel. IAH offers multiple accessible ground transportation options to meet different needs and preferences.

METRO Buses: Accessible Public Transit

All METRO buses serving Houston Airports are fully accessible, featuring wheelchair ramps or lifts, priority seating areas, and audio/visual announcements for stops. METRO's Route 102 provides direct service between IAH and downtown Houston.

For complete METRO accessibility information including service hours, routes, and boarding procedures, visit ridemetro.org/Accessibility. For IAH-specific METRO bus information, see fly2houston.com/iah/shuttles-buses.

MetroLift: Door-to-Door Paratransit Service

MetroLift provides specialized, door-to-door transportation for individuals whose disabilities prevent them from using regular METRO bus or rail services. This ADA paratransit service offers:

• Curb-to-curb or door-to-door service
• Vehicles equipped with wheelchair lifts
• Trained drivers who provide assistance
• Advance reservation system

To use MetroLift, you must complete an eligibility application and be certified. Learn more about eligibility requirements, how to apply, and service details at ridemetro.org/metrolift-paratransit.

Accessible Taxis at IAH

All taxis servicing George Bush Intercontinental Airport are required to be accessible and accommodate passengers with disabilities. Wheelchair-accessible taxi services are available at designated taxi stands outside each terminal.

For complete information about taxi services, accessible vehicle availability, and pickup locations, visit fly2houston.com/iah/taxis-ride-apps.

Additional Accessibility Services at IAH

George Bush Intercontinental Airport offers many additional accessibility features and services to ensure comfortable travel for all passengers:

• Wheelchair Assistance: Free wheelchair service is available through your airline. Request assistance when booking your flight or at least 48 hours before departure.
• Accessible Restrooms: Every terminal features accessible restrooms with appropriate fixtures and space for maneuvering.
• Service Animal Relief Areas: Designated areas are available both inside security checkpoints and in pre-security areas throughout the airport.
• Visual and Audible Paging Systems: Flight information is displayed on monitors and announced audibly throughout terminals.
• TTY Telephones: Telecommunication devices for the deaf are available throughout the airport.
• Elevators and Ramps: All terminals are fully accessible with elevators connecting all levels and ramps where needed.
• Moving Walkways with Wheelchair Access: Terminal walkways accommodate wheelchairs and mobility devices.

Sunflower Lanyard Program: Support for Hidden Disabilities

IAH participates in the Sunflower Lanyard Program, which helps travelers with non-visible disabilities discreetly notify airport staff of their potential need for assistance. These disabilities may include autism, anxiety disorders, chronic pain, or other conditions that aren't immediately apparent. Houston Airports staff members are trained to recognize the sunflower symbol and provide appropriate assistance when needed. To request a Sunflower Lanyard before your trip, email your mailing address to HAS_Accessibility@houstontx.gov. Lanyards are also available at any Houston Airports Information Booth throughout the terminal on the day of travel.

Complete Accessibility Information & Resources

This guide covers the most frequently requested accessibility services at IAH, but George Bush Intercontinental Airport offers many additional accommodations and resources for travelers with disabilities. For a comprehensive overview of all accessibility features, detailed facility information, and contact numbers for specific assistance, visit the complete IAH Accessibility page at fly2houston.com/iah/accessibility.

You'll find information about:

• Terminal-specific accessibility features
• Airline-provided assistance services
• Accessible dining and shopping options
• Rental car accessibility information
• International terminal services
• Updates on new accessibility features and improvements

Planning Your Accessible Journey Through IAH

Successful accessible travel starts with planning. Here are recommended steps to ensure a smooth experience:

1. Contact TSA Cares 72 hours before travel to discuss your specific screening needs and receive personalized guidance.
2. Request airline assistance when booking or at least 48 hours in advance. Airlines provide wheelchair service, early boarding, and other accommodations.
3. Reserve accessible parking in advance if driving yourself, or arrange MetroLift service if using paratransit.
4. Arrive with extra time to accommodate accessibility services without feeling rushed. We recommend arriving 30 minutes earlier than standard recommendations.
5. Keep important numbers handy: IAH Accessibility Information (281) 233-1786, Your airline's special assistance line, TSA Cares contact information.

George Bush Intercontinental Airport is committed to continuous improvement of accessibility services and welcomes feedback from travelers. Your experience helps IAH enhance facilities and services for all passengers. If you have suggestions or concerns about accessibility at IAH, please share them through the airport's customer feedback system or by calling (281) 233-1786.

We want every traveler to experience safe, comfortable, and dignified travel through Houston Airports. For questions about any accessibility service or accommodation, don't hesitate to reach out—we're here to help make your journey as smooth as possible.